Historical Marker

Refugio County Courthouses

Historical marker location:
808 Commerce Street, Refugio, Texas
( 808 Commerce Street)
Marker installed: 1994
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The county and city of Refugio are named after the Spanish Mission De Nuestra Señora Del Refugio (the Mission of our Lady of Refuge) established here in 1795. The Spanish mission building served as Refugio County's courthouse at various times from 1837 to 1848.

Construction of a permanent county courthouse began about 1850 here on the town's central plaza, dedicated for municipal buildings when Refugio was a Mexican pueblo (1821-1836). The one-story courthouse, made from shell concrete and cypress lumber, was enlarged to a two-story structure in the late 1850s. A new courthouse, built in the mid-1870s, burned in 1879 and was replaced with a new structure in the late 1850s. A new courthouse, built in the mid-1870s, burned in 1879 and was replaced with a new structure in 1880. The fifth Refugio County courthouse, designed by San Antonio architect Atlee B. Ayres and built by local contractor W.H. Borglud, was completed at this site in December 1917.

In the 1920s oil and natural gas were discovered in significant quantities throughout Refugio County. The burgeoning oil and gas industries led to an increase in population and business activity in the county, and in the 1950s the county courthouse was expanded with the addition of north and south wings. Refugio County courthouse continues its traditional role as the county's governmental and judical center.

Sesquicentennial of Texas Statehood 1845-1995

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

courthouses design and construction
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
Texas random facts
Refugio County, located in the coastal bend region of Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Coahuiltecan groups. Spanish explorers, such as Alonso de Leon, first arrived in the area in the late 17th century, establishing missions in the region.

In 1795, the area that is now Refugio County became part of the Spanish territory of Texas. The small community of Refugio was founded in 1832, and it quickly became an important center for trade and politics in the region. During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Refugio was a strategic location, and it played a significant role in the battle for Texas independence. The famous Battle of Refugio took place here, where the Texian soldiers fought against Mexican forces.

Following the Texas Revolution, Refugio County grew steadily as more settlers arrived in the area. The discovery of oil and gas in the early 20th century brought economic prosperity to the county. Refugio's population continued to grow, and the town became a hub for agriculture, ranching, and oil-related industries. The county also played a part in World War II, with the establishment of the Tynan Army Airfield and the construction of an air training base.

Today, Refugio County retains its rich history and charm. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Old Refugio County Jail and the Refugio County Museum, which showcase the area's past. The county is also known for its natural beauty, with areas like the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and the Copano Bay State Fishing Pier providing opportunities for outdoor activities. With its long and fascinating history, Refugio County continues to be a vibrant community in South Texas.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Refugio County, Texas.

  • 1795 - Spanish land grants are issued in the area that is now Refugio County
  • 1828 - The Mexican government grants a land certificate to a group of eleven empresarios, including James Power and James Hewetson, who establish a colony in the area
  • 1836 - The Battle of Refugio takes place during the Texas Revolution
  • 1837 - Refugio County is officially established by the Republic of Texas
  • 1844 - The first courthouse is built in Refugio County
  • 1854 - The town of Refugio becomes the county seat of Refugio County
  • 1858 - The county courthouse burns down and is replaced with a new one
  • 1922 - The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in Refugio County
  • 1936 - The current courthouse in Refugio is completed
  • 1940s-1950s - The County experiences a decline in population due to the effects of World War II and increased mechanization in agriculture
  • 1970s-1980s - The construction of the nearby South Texas Nuclear Project brings economic growth to the county
  • 2008 - Hurricane Ike causes extensive damage to Refugio County