Sterling County
Historical marker location:This prairie region split by the north Concho River is old Comanche, Kickapoo, Kiowa, Lipan, and Wichita hunting ground. Possibly it was crossed by six or so Spanish explorations between 1540 and 1654. In the 1860s and 70s, Anglo-Americans hunted buffalo commercially in this area. An 1860s hunter, Capt. W. S. Sterling, had a dugout home on the creek that bears his name. In the 1870s, bandits Frank and Jesse James kept horse herds on a tributary of Sterling Creek. In 1874 the United States Army occupied Camp Elizabeth, a Fort Concho outpost hospital, about ten miles west of here. Ranchers from other counties began to bring in large cattle herds in the 1870s, to capitalize on free grass. After keeping out small herds for a time, they permitted actual settlers to share the range. Family men staked land claims, grew crops in the valleys, and opened stores, schools, and post offices. On March 4, 1891, on the petition of 150 citizens, the county was created out of part of Tom Green County, and named for its first regular resident. Sterling City became the county seat.
Petroleum production has been important to the economy since the 1950s; yet the land essentially remains range country, grazed by cattle and sheep
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 Alamo was a pivotal moment in the fight for Texas’ independence from Mexico and was the birthplace of the Texas Rangers.
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.
Sterling County Timeline
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.