Historical Marker

William Lenard Foster

Historical marker location:
SH 163, about 5.2 mi. S of Sterling City, Sterling City, Texas
( From Sterling City, take SH 163 south about 5.2 miles to Foster Cemetery)
Marker installed: 1982
Marker size: grave marker

Navarro County native William Lenard Foster migrated to this area in 1881 with his brother Robert West Foster. One of the region's pioneer settlers, W. L. Foster was a prominent rancher and landowner and was elected one of the first commissioners of Sterling County. A founder of the First Methodist Church, he served as president and director of the First National Bank of Sterling City from its founding in 1910 until his death in 1950.

Recorded - 1982

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 county official pioneers
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Sterling County is located in central Texas, and its history dates back to the mid-1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Apache. The county was officially established in 1891, and it was named after W.S. Sterling, a prominent early settler in the region.

Like many other areas in Texas, Sterling County experienced a boom in population and economic development during the late 1800s due to the discovery of oil. The Texas & Pacific Railway line passing through the county further contributed to its growth, as it allowed for easier transportation of people and goods. Oil drilling and production became a major industry in Sterling County, attracting many workers and bringing prosperity to the area.

However, in the early 20th century, the oil boom began to decline, and the county faced economic challenges. Agriculture, particularly ranching, became the primary source of livelihood for the residents. The vast grasslands of Sterling County provided ample grazing opportunities, and cattle ranching became a key industry.

In recent years, Sterling County has embraced its rich natural resources and attracted tourists to enjoy its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. Hunting, fishing, and camping are popular recreational activities in the county, drawing visitors from both within and outside Texas. The county continues to maintain its rural character, offering a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sterling County, Texas.

  • 1885 - Sterling County established and named after W.S. Sterling, a buffalo hunter and early settler.
  • 1890 - First post office opened in the county.
  • 1895 - Sterling City, the county seat, founded.
  • 1899 - First school established in the county.
  • 1900 - Population of the county reaches 1,000.
  • 1916 - Sterling City incorporated.
  • 1924 - First oil well drilled in the county, leading to an oil boom.
  • 1930s - Great Depression hits the county hard, but oil production helps the local economy.
  • 1950s - Population of the county peaks at around 3,000.
  • 1970s - Oil production declines, affecting the local economy.
  • 1995 - Sterling City celebrates its centennial.
  • 2000s - County experiences a decline in population due to economic changes.
  • Present - Sterling County continues to rely on agriculture and oil production as important industries.