Roberts County Courthouse
300 E. Commerical Street, Miami Texas Significance:Jurisdiction:
State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.
SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.
Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
In the early 1870s, ranchers began to settle in what is now Roberts County. The region's vast grasslands provided ample grazing opportunities for cattle, attracting ranchers from across Texas. The county was officially established in 1876, named after John S. Roberts, a significant figure in the movement for Texas statehood.
Throughout the late 19th century, cattle ranching dominated the local economy, and the population grew steadily. In the 1880s, the establishment of railroads in the region further facilitated the increase in trade and transportation of cattle, allowing for better access to markets outside the county. This growth continued into the 20th century, with the development of better irrigation techniques and the expansion of farming activities.
However, like many rural areas, Roberts County faced challenges during the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s devastated agricultural practices in the region, causing massive crop failures and forcing many residents to abandon their farms. The federal government's New Deal programs aimed to provide relief and recovery for farmers in the area, leading to the implementation of soil conservation measures and the construction of dams and reservoirs.
Since then, Roberts County has experienced periods of economic growth and decline. Today, the county's economy is still primarily based on agriculture, with cattle ranching, farming, and wind energy production being major industries. The county's rich history and dynamic present make it an interesting and important part of Texas' heritage.
Roberts County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Roberts County, Texas.
- 1876: Roberts County is officially established by the Texas legislature.
- Late 1870s: Buffalo hunters begin to populate the area.
- 1882: The first post office, "Roberts", is established.
- 1890: The county population is recorded at 565 residents.
- Early 1900s: Farmers and ranchers settle in the area, establishing the agricultural economy.
- 1933: The Dust Bowl hits Roberts County, causing severe soil erosion and economic hardships.
- 1950s: Oil and gas exploration begins, leading to increased economic activity in the county.
- 1980: The county reaches its peak population of around 1,400 residents.
- 1990s: Population decline begins as job opportunities decrease.
- Present: Roberts County continues to be a rural community with a focus on agriculture and energy industries.