Historical Marker

The Big Thicket, C. S. A.

Historical marker location:
Coldspring, Texas
( 2 mi. SE of Coldspring on SH 150 in picnic area. Marker reported missing July 2015.)
Marker installed: 1965
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In early Texas, a paradise for settlers liking solitude. During the Civil War, became notorious as hunt of army deserters or men avoiding conscript officers and living off the country.

The thicket was so hard to penetrate that it was the despair of commanding officers. Soldiers who remained loyal were somewhat demoralized by seeing that men camping in the Big Thicket were safe from punishment for desertion. On at least two occasions, however, the men were discovered, once a fire was set in a circle around them, and smoked them out. A later camp was located by a veteran hunter whose pack of bear dogs brought out the deserters.

Before they were hunted out, the deserters found thicket life good. They feasted on game and wild honey. Their wives, living nearby, would visit the men occasionally. Except when conscript officers were in the locality, the wives would visit caches established by the men and remove meat, hides or honey to be marketed for the support of the family. These people felt justified in deserting. Many were foreign-born and had sworn allegiance to the U. S. only 5 to 10 years earlier. Confused by the onset of war, they had fled from their homes

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
Texas random facts
San Jacinto County, Texas, is located in the southeastern part of the state. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapa, Akokisa, and Caddo peoples. In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive, with Stephen F. Austin's colony bringing the first wave of Anglo-Americans to the region.

The county was officially established in 1870, named after the Battle of San Jacinto, a turning point in the Texas Revolution. The battle took place in 1836, when Texan forces led by General Sam Houston defeated Mexican forces led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna. This victory led to the independence of Texas from Mexico.

San Jacinto County experienced significant growth in the late 19th century due to the expansion of the railroad in the region. The Houston, East, and West Texas Railway reached the county in 1879, opening up opportunities for trade and commerce. The timber industry also played a crucial role in the county's development, with logging becoming a major economic driver.

In the 20th century, San Jacinto County faced challenges such as the Great Depression and natural disasters like hurricanes and floods. However, the county persisted and continued to grow. Today, San Jacinto County is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, with the Sam Houston National Forest and Lake Livingston attracting visitors and residents alike. The county also maintains its historical importance, holding events and commemorations related to the Battle of San Jacinto and the Texas Revolution.

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

  • 1832: The area that would become San Jacinto County is settled by a few families.
  • 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto takes place, a turning point in the Texas Revolution.
  • 1848: San Jacinto County is officially formed and organized as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1850: The county's population reaches 648 residents.
  • 1870s: The timber industry begins to flourish in San Jacinto County.
  • 1872: The county's first newspaper, The San Jacinto Times, is established.
  • 1900: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 8,603.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression greatly affects the county's economy, leading to a decline in the timber industry.
  • 1940: The population of San Jacinto County decreases to 4,110.
  • 1960s: Multiple oil and gas wells are established in the county, bringing economic growth.
  • 1970: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 10,761.
  • 1990: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 16,672.
  • 2000: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 22,246.
  • 2010: The population of San Jacinto County reaches 26,384.