Historical Markers in
San Saba County, Texas

A.J. Rose Mill Adams Cemetery Alma Ward Hamrick Barnett-Hamrick Settlement, 1855-1895 Big Uncle Cemetery Bowser Community Bowser Community Camp McMillan, C.S.A.; Texas Civil War Frontier Defense Campbell House Cedar Log Cabin Museum Chappel Cemetery China Creek Cemetery Comanche Indian Treaty Edmond E. Risien, Pecan Pioneer Edward D. Doss Estep-Burleson Building First Baptist Church of San Saba First Baptist Church of San Saba First Methodist Church First State Bank Building First State Bank in Richland Springs Harkeyville Harmony Ridge Cemetery Harmony Ridge Community, Site of Harris Cemetery Indian Signaling Grounds James Louis & Ellen Austin Baker John Duncan's Fort John H. "Shorty" Brown Cemetery John Robert Polk Ranch Lathum Cemetery Mill Pond House Old Algerita Cemetery Old Methodist Camp Meeting San Saba Cemetery San Saba Church of Christ San Saba Church of Christ San Saba County San Saba County Courthouse San Saba County Jail San Saba Lodge No. 225, A. F. & A. M. San Saba Lodge No. 225, A.F. & A.M. San Saba Lodge No. 612, A.F. & A.M. Shiloh Cemetery Sion Record Bostick Site of Harmony Ridge Community Site of Old Behrns West Texas Normal and Business College T. A. and Emma Sloan House Terry Cemetery The Texas Rangers and the San Saba Mob Union Band Cemetery United Confederate Veterans William P. Rogers Camp No. 322 United Confederate Veterans, William P. Rogers Camp No. 322 W. H. (Uncle Billy) Gibbons Wedding Oak Whitis-Moore House
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History Ahead: Stories beyond the Texas Roadside Markers (Texas A&M Travel Guides) Kindle Edition
History Ahead: Stories beyond the Texas Roadside Markers

Texas is a country in its own right.
Yanis Varoufakis in The Guardian
Founded in 1856, San Saba County is located in central Texas and is named after the San Saba River that runs through it. The area has a rich and diverse history that dates back far before its official establishment. Native American tribes, such as the Caddo and Comanche, inhabited the land long before European settlers arrived. Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to explore the region in the 18th century.

During the Mexican Texas era, San Saba County was a part of the municipality of Colorado and later, the municipality of Bexar. It played a significant role in the fight for Texas' independence from Mexico, with notable figures like James Bowie and Sam Houston having connections to the area. After the Texas Revolution, the county became a part of the Republic of Texas and underwent various changes in its jurisdiction before being officially organized as San Saba County.

Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, played a crucial role in the early development of San Saba County. The county's fertile soil, along with the San Saba River, provided favorable conditions for farming. The expansion of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the local economy, as it allowed for the transportation of goods and facilitated trade.

Over the years, San Saba County has faced challenges such as droughts, economic fluctuations, and changes in agricultural practices. However, the community has persevered and adapted, diversifying its economy to include industries such as oil and gas, as well as tourism. Today, San Saba County's rich heritage, natural beauty, and friendly community make it a charming place to live, visit, and explore.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of San Saba County, Texas.

  • 1856 - San Saba County was officially established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1859 - Fort McKavett was established near Menardville, bringing increased protection to the area.
  • 1860s - The county faced conflicts with Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Apaches.
  • 1870s - The arrival of the railroad led to economic growth and the development of towns like San Saba.
  • 1882 - The County Courthouse was built, becoming a centerpiece of San Saba.
  • 1900s - Farming and ranching became the main economic activities in the county.
  • 1911 - The Women's Culture Club was founded, promoting education and cultural initiatives.
  • 1930s - San Saba County was severely affected by the Great Depression.
  • 1980s - The county experienced a decline in population due to economic changes.
  • 2000s - Efforts were made to revive the county's economy, focusing on tourism and agriculture.