Colonel John S. Sutton
Historical marker location:
At outbreak Civil War, this veteran soldier, Ranger, Indian fighter joined 7th Regiment Texas Mounted Volunteers. Elected lt. colonel, led five companies Arizona-New Mexico campaign designed to make Confederacy an ocean to ocean nation. Mortally wounded in Battle of Val Verde while leading rifle assault against enemy cannons, he refused immediate aid and motioned on his battalion which captured the battery.
A memorial to Texans who served the Confederacy
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 state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
In the late 19th century, ranching became a significant economic activity in Sutton County, with large cattle ranches dominating the landscape. The area's abundant grasslands and access to water sources made it conducive to ranching, and it attracted many ranchers looking to establish their businesses. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further stimulated growth and trade in the county.
In the early 20th century, silver mining also played a crucial role in Sutton County's history. The boom in silver production attracted miners from all over Texas and beyond. The town of Sonora, which had been established earlier as a cattle trading center, became a hub for silver mining operations. Although the silver boom was short-lived and ended by the 1920s, its impact on the economy and population of the area was significant.
Today, Sutton County continues to be primarily an agricultural area, with cattle ranching being the main industry. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic canyons and rivers that provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in tourism, with visitors exploring the area's history and enjoying activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. Sutton County's history and vibrant present make it an intriguing part of Texas' diverse landscape.
Sutton County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Sutton County, Texas.
- Sutton County, TX was established in 1887.
- In 1899, the town of Sonora was founded as the county seat.
- In the early 1900s, the area experienced a boom in ranching and farming.
- In 1922, oil was discovered in Sutton County, leading to an oil boom.
- During the Great Depression, the county suffered from economic hardships.
- In the 1950s, the construction of Lake Amistad began, providing a new water source and recreational opportunities.
- In 1978, a small airplane crashed in Sutton County, resulting in the deaths of country music singer Jim Reeves and his manager.
- Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Sutton County has continued to focus on ranching, oil production, and tourism.