Historical Marker

Dryden Intermediate Field Site 29

Marker installed: 2008
Marker size: 18" x 28"

The U.S. Government first invested in Terrell County Aviation in 1919, with an airfield built west of Sanderson for the 90th Aero Squadron that flew biplanes for the border patrol. After the squadron relocated, the East Dryden Aerodrome was an active field until 1941. During World War II, American Airlines and the government joined to build a new civilian intermediate and emergency military landing field here. The Civilian Aeronautics Administration supervised construction that ended in October 1943. Two intersecting runways, each nearly a mile in length, were built of rock asphalt on a caliche base. Later named Terrell County Airport, this facility has also hosted civil air patrol and military training exercises

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.

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Terrell County, Texas is located in the southwestern part of the state, along the Rio Grande River. The area that is now Terrell County has a long history of human habitation, with evidence of Native American settlements dating back thousands of years. The region was inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Jumano, Apache, and Comanche, before Spanish explorers arrived in the early 1600s.

In the 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the fertile land and natural resources. The county was officially established in 1905 and named after Alexander Watkins Terrell, a prominent Texas jurist and statesman. The main town, Sanderson, developed as a result of the expansion of the railway in the region, which brought increased economic activity and population growth.

Terrell County's economy has traditionally been based on ranching and agriculture. Cattle ranching, in particular, has played a significant role in the county's history and remains an important industry today. The region's vast grasslands and favorable climate make it ideal for livestock production. Additionally, crops such as cotton, corn, and melons have been cultivated in the county.

While historically a rural and agricultural area, Terrell County has also experienced changes and challenges over the years. The county's population has remained relatively small, with periods of growth and decline. Today, it is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, and hiking in areas such as the rugged landscape of the Chinati Mountains and the nearby Big Bend National Park.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Terrell County, Texas.

  • 1905 - Terrell County is founded.
  • 1907 - Dryden is established as the county seat.
  • 1910 - Terrell County's population is recorded at 260.
  • 1930s - The area experiences significant growth due to oil and gas exploration.
  • 1944 - Construction of the world's largest stone masonry dam, the Pecos River High Bridge, is completed.
  • 1960 - Terrell County's population reaches its peak at around 5,000.
  • 1987 - The remote and isolated Devil's River State Natural Area is established.
  • 2002 - Terrell County experiences a devastating wildfire that burns over 71,000 acres.