Historical Marker

Sanderson Flash Flood

Historical marker location:
300 U.S. Hwy 90, Sanderson, Texas
( In the lot west of the Sanderson Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Hwy 90 (E. Oak St.), E of 1st St., south side)
Marker installed: 2015
Marker size: 18" x 28" with post

On the fateful morning of June 11, 1965, just after 7:00 a.m. following a night of continuous rain, a wall of water with a velocity of 100,000 cubic feet per second crested upon the railroad and ranching community of Sanderson. Twenty-six were killed during the natural disaster, demolishing around sixty homes, injuring dozens and causing many to be homeless. The force of the water washed away railroad and highway bridges and twisted heavy steel rails. Along with the destruction, there were also acts of heroism. Individuals risked their lives to save others and citizens quickly organized to provide relief to victims. (2015)

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
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.