Lanham Mill Community
Historical marker location:William and Mary E. Lanham and their family came to Texas from Tennessee about 1870. They purchased land and settled on a farm at the confluence of the Paluxy River and White Bluff Creek in what was at that time Hood County. William Lanham was one of 406 citizens who signed the 1875 petition to the State Legislature that led to the creation of Somervell County out of portions of Hood County.
By 1877 Lanham and a partner, T. J. Hamick, owned a grist mill located on the Paluxy River about halfway between Glen Rose and Paluxy. They built a cotton gin about 1881, and continued in business until a fire destroyed the entire facility in 1898.
The area around the mill operation became known as the Lanham Mill community. In addition to the mill and gin, the community included farms, churches, a public school, and a community cemetery. Although land for the cemetery was not formally deeded until 1893, headstones reveal that burials occurred here as early as 1879.
The community gradually declined in the early 20th century, and by 1947 the school was closed. The Lanham Mill Cemetery remains as the last physical remnant of a once-thriving rural community. (1997)
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.
In the late 19th century, Somervell County became a prominent center for agriculture and ranching. Cotton was the main crop grown in the county, and many farms and plantations flourished during this time. Additionally, the discovery of large limestone deposits in the county led to the establishment of several quarries, which became an important industry for the area.
One of the most significant events in Somervell County's history occurred in the early 20th century. In 1929, construction began on the Glen Rose Dam, which created the picturesque Lake Granbury. This provided water for irrigation and recreational opportunities, leading to the growth of tourism in the area.
Today, Somervell County continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The county is known for its natural beauty, with attractions such as the Dinosaur Valley State Park, which features fossilized dinosaur footprints, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a popular safari park. The historic downtown area of Glen Rose remains a charming destination for visitors, showcasing its rich history through numerous preserved buildings and museums.
Somervell County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Somervell County, Texas.
- 1849 - Somervell County is established as a county by the Texas state legislature.
- 1850 - The first settlers begin arriving in Somervell County.
- 1852 - The county's first post office is established at Glen Rose.
- 1860 - The population of Somervell County reaches 604 residents.
- 1861 - The Civil War begins, and many men from Somervell County join the Confederate Army.
- 1875 - The Texas Central Railroad is completed, passing through Glen Rose and boosting the local economy.
- 1881 - Dinosaur tracks are discovered along the Paluxy River, leading to increased tourism and scientific interest in the area.
- 1906 - The creation of the Brazos River Authority brings hydroelectric power to Somervell County.
- 1929 - The Great Depression heavily impacts the county's agricultural and oil industries.
- 1969 - The Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant is completed, providing a major source of employment and revenue for Somervell County.
- 1990 - The population of Somervell County reaches 6,333 residents.
- 2013 - The creation of the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center attracts tourists from around the world.
- 2019 - Somervell County celebrates its 170th anniversary since its establishment.