Historical Marker

San Clemente Mission

Historical marker location:
US 83, about 6.5 mi. S of Ballinger, Ballinger, Texas
( From Ballinger, take Highway 83 south about 6.5 miles)
Marker installed: 1968
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The first mission known to have been established in Texas east of the Pecos River, San Clemente was a hastily built, two-room structure located on a hill about 17 miles south of present Ballinger. (Some historians place the site farther south, near Junction.) Although earlier than the great Spanish mission movement, this was one of the first (1684) in Texas and was founded by Juan Dominguez de Mendoza and Fray Nicolas Lopez.

Named for the San Clemente River (actually the Colorado), the mission was founded at the request of the Jumano Indians, who desired Christianity and the friendship of the Spanish. The buildings was probably constructed of logs, its lower story serving as a chapel and its upper story as a lookout post. Though they stayed only from March 15 to May 1, awaiting envoys from 48 tribes (bands), the Spaniards baptized many of their several thousand Indian allies.

Finally, being attacked by hostile Apaches, Mendoza returned with his men to El Paso six months after he had left. Although Mendoza did not know it, French explorer La Salle had landed on the Gulf Coast, 1684. This fact, plus Mendoza's report of seeing a French flag among the Indians quickly led to other Spanish expeditions being sent to chart the Texas wilderness

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.

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Texas is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
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Runnels County is located in central Texas and has a rich and diverse history that dates back to ancient times. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Tonkawa tribes, who lived off the land and utilized the natural resources of the region.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to establish communities in the area that would become Runnels County. The county was officially established in 1858, named after Hiram G. Runnels, the third governor of the state of Mississippi. The first county seat was Runnels City, but it was later moved to the current county seat of Ballinger in 1888.

Like many areas in Texas, Runnels County experienced a boom in population and economic activity in the late 19th century due to the cattle industry and the arrival of the railroad. The county became known for its ranching and farming, with cotton becoming a prominent crop. The development of infrastructure, such as schools, churches, and businesses, contributed to the growth of the county during this period.

The early 20th century brought challenges to Runnels County, most notably the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. The economy suffered as agricultural production declined, and many residents were forced to leave in search of better opportunities. However, the county persevered, and in the latter half of the 20th century, industries such as oil and gas extraction, manufacturing, and renewable energy began to emerge, providing new sources of economic stability.

Today, Runnels County continues to be a predominantly rural community with a strong agricultural heritage. The county's small towns offer a glimpse into its past with historic buildings and museums, showcasing the history and culture of this resilient region in central Texas.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Runnels County, Texas.

  • 1858 - Runnels County is officially established and named after Hiram G. Runnels, a former Texas governor
  • Mid to late 1800s - Settlements and ranching communities begin to form in the area
  • 1886 - Ballinger, the county seat, is founded and becomes a major center for trade and agriculture
  • Early 1900s - Runnels County experiences a boom in cotton farming, contributing to its economic growth
  • 1920s - Oil is discovered in the county, leading to increased industrial development
  • 1940s - World War II and the construction of Camp Bowie near Brownwood greatly impact the local economy
  • 1960s - Construction of O.H. Ivie Reservoir begins, providing a reliable water source for the county
  • 1980s - Decline in oil production and agriculture affects the county's economy
  • 2000s - Efforts to diversify the economy and promote tourism are implemented