Historical Marker

Welder Ranch

Historical marker location:
US 77 about 6 mi. N of Sinton, Sinton, Texas
( from Sinton, take US 77 6 miles north to Welder Wildlife entrance)
Marker installed: 1983
Marker size: P

Original homesite and Mexican land grant of Don Felipe Roque de la Portilla and wife Maria Ignacia de la Garza spanish empresario in Texas 1807-1812 forerunner of Stephen F. Austin founder of San Marcos de Neve 1807 joined irish colony of Col. James Power and James Hewetson 1828 received mexican land grant at this site 1834 daughter Maria Dolores de la Portilla married Col. James Power 1832 and had two children Dolores and James Power, Jr. after Dolores died 1836 Col. James Power married her sister Maria Tomasa de la Portilla and had five children. 1850 ranch of John Welder and wife Dolores Power daughter of Col. James Power and Dolores de la Portilla Power. Col. James Power was an empresario and soldier signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and the Republic of Texas constitution John Welder came to America from Bavaria with his father Franz Welder 1830 landed at Copano 1833 with Beales and Grant Colony oldest son of John Welder and wife Dolores Power John J. Welder married Eliza Hughes daughter of Patrick Hughes Ireland to Texas 1852 Capt. in confederate army wife Elizabeth Traylor daughter of Winn Traylor Texas land grant 1840 this land still owned and ranched by descendants of these great texans

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.

ranching Mexican immigrants immigration Irish immigrants
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
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 concise overview of the key events in the history 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.