United Confederate Veterans William P. Rogers Camp No. 322
Historical marker location:United Confederate Veterans William P. Rogers Camp No. 322
The United Confederate Veterans (UCV) began in 1889 and grew in popularity following the death and burial of former Confederate President Jefferson Davis a few months later. Camps formed across the South, and annual reunions allowed Confederate veterans to renew friendships and honor the war dead.
In 1893, veterans in San Saba County organized the William P. Rogers Camp No. 322 of the UCV. A hero of the battle of Corinth, Col. William P. Rogers was a native of Georgia and never lived in San Saba County, but his daughter, Fannie Alabama, married one of his officers, George Harris, in 1863. The Harrises moved to San Saba in 1880 and were the driving forces behind the organization of this camp. A former county judge, George Harris was elected first commander of the William P. Rogers Camp.
Members, who included farmers, state legislators, city and county officials, and local businessmen, held their camp meetings at the San Saba County Courthouse. In April 1900, the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC), then called the National Association of the Daughters of the Confederacy, organized the George Washington Lafayette Fly Chapter No. 377 in San Saba. Together the two groups developed educational programs for the local schools and supported the placement of monuments to confederate heroes across the South. In particular, the UDC chapter worked to erect a monument to honor Col. Rogers at Corinth, Mississippi.
The camp continued to meet until the early 1930s, when the declining number of veterans resulted in its demise.
(2002)
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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 discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.