Estep-Burleson Building
Historical marker location:Elijah Estep (1828-1901), San Saba County’s second tax assessor-collector, was born in Sangamon County, Illinois. He married Abigail Montgomery (1826-1868), and the couple was living in the community of Cherokee when San Saba County was founded. When Abigail died, Elijah was left to care for 11 children, ages one to 19. Elijah married Jane (Burden) Williams in 1869, the daughter of Nathaniel (1798-1870) and Sarah Burden.
In the early 1870s, Estep built this two-story building facing the courthouse out of locally quarried, rough-cut hard limestone. Each floor is a single 20 x 16 foot room with hewn beam ceiling joists and pine floor planking. A newer 10-foot square room attaches to the west end. Much later, the structure was mistakenly called “the Burden Hotel,” attributed to Nathaniel Burden from 1857, but records reveal that his property was on the north side of the square and that he died in 1870, the year before his son-in-law bought this lot for $75. The building became a residence and Estep operated a mercantile store on the east end of the same lot.
The Estep family owned it until Sep. 1890, when prominent central Texas attorney Leigh Burleson bought the property for his law office. Later, E. E. Risien and his heirs owned the property for more than 50 years. The building was occasionally an annex to other businesses, but often remained vacant. It even faced deconstruction in the 1990s before local students helped persuade the William Fritz family (Fredericksburg) to donate the property to the community. The building was restored to its earliest known appearance from a 1911 photograph, including a gabled wooden front porch and exterior stairs. This symbol of San Saba’s frontier period also reminds us of the value of history fashioned from wood and stone
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.
The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
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.
San Saba County Timeline
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.