Historical Marker

Taft Agricultural Industrial Complex

Marker installed: 1991
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The Coleman-Fulton Pasture Company laid out the town of Taft on the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railroad line in 1900. The intention of the company directors was to present Taft and surrounding farms as a model community to attract northern investors. By 1904 a post office and a company commissary had opened near the rail line, and soon other businesses and homes were built nearby. To promote the area's economic possibilities and the ease with which potential farmers and ranchers could market their products, the company planned a large agricultural industrial complex in the center of town. By 1909 they had built a slaughter and packing house, a cold storage facility and ice plant, and a cottonseed oil mill. By 1921, the complex also included two cotton gins, a feed mill, cotton compress, creamery and ice cream factory, and machine shop. As the company plan came to fruition, settlement and land values increased and the company realized a profit as it began selling off all of its holdings. Once solely a company town, Taft soon became diversified as the company presence gradually disappeared. Some of the industrial complex facilities remained in operation under private ownership until the 1950's. (1991)

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.

agriculture manufacturing land surveys, land companies, promotional towns factories industrial buildings
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
San Patricio County, located in southeastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans many centuries. The area was initially home to various indigenous peoples, including the Karankawa, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers began to arrive, claiming the land for Spain and establishing missions in the area. These missions played a significant role in the region's early development.

By the early 19th century, Mexican settlers began to populate the area, leading to the establishment of San Patricio de Hibernia, a small community near the Nueces River. This settlement grew, becoming the county seat and a major center of commerce. However, as tensions grew between Mexico and the United States, San Patricio County became a focal point of conflict during the Texas Revolution. In 1836, local residents joined forces with Texan rebels to fight against Mexican forces in the Battle of Nueces.

After Texas gained independence from Mexico, San Patricio County continued to grow and develop. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought prosperity to the area and attracted new industries. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, also played a significant role in the county's economy. Over time, the county's population diversified, with immigrants from Ireland, Germany, and other parts of Europe contributing to its cultural heritage.

In recent decades, San Patricio County has continued to thrive, with the expansion of industrial and manufacturing sectors. The county is home to major refineries, chemical plants, and a naval air station. It has also become a popular tourist destination, with its coastal location offering beautiful beaches, recreational opportunities, and attractions such as the Copano Bay State Fishing Pier and the historic town of Sinton. Today, San Patricio County remains a vibrant community, embracing its rich history while looking toward a bright future.

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

  • 1828 - The Mexican government grants land to Irish empresarios James Power and James Hewetson, leading to the settlement of Irish immigrants in the area that would become San Patricio County.
  • 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico, and San Patricio County is officially established as a county of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1870 - Railroads, including the Texas-Mexican Railway, begin operating in San Patricio County, boosting trade and transportation in the region.
  • 1886 - The discovery of oil in neighboring Nueces County leads to the development of the petroleum industry in San Patricio County.
  • 1927 - The town of Taft is incorporated, becoming an important center for the oil and gas industry in the county.
  • 1941 - The Naval Air Station Corpus Christi is established southwest of Portland, becoming a major training base during World War II.
  • 1961 - The construction of the Port of Corpus Christi's Ingleside Marine Terminal begins, further boosting the county's economic growth.
  • 1970 - The completion of the Interstate Highway 37 connects San Patricio County to major transportation routes.
  • 2017 - Hurricane Harvey makes landfall in San Patricio County, causing significant damage to the area.