Historical Marker

Lynching of Tom Farrar

Historical marker location:
Throckmorton, Texas
( 1/4 mile east of County Road 206 on Lake Road at the old Water Treatment Plant)
Marker installed: 2011
Marker size: 18" x 28"

In October 1886, 19-year-old Tom Farrar was one of several African American cowboys working on area ranches. On his way to the Buchanan Ranch, he stopped at a sheepherder’s dugout. The bodies of a father and daughter were discovered there the next day. Deputy Tom McCarver recognized a unique horseshoe print at the crime scene. Farrar was arrested and brought to the calaboose, where he confessed to the killings and sent a note to his family. During the night, a mob of dozens of men broke into the jail, put a rope around Farrar’s neck, dragged him behind a horse, then hung his body from an elm tree on the creek near this site. This act of vigilantism affected generations, with African Americans virtually disappearing from Throckmorton County

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.

African American segregation
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.
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Throckmorton County, located in central Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally occupied by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Wichita, who lived off the land and utilized the abundant natural resources.

European settlers began arriving in the 1850s, establishing small communities and ranches. The county was officially formed in 1858 and named after James W. Throckmorton, who was a former governor of Texas. The economy primarily revolved around agriculture, especially cattle ranching, with large ranches like the 6666 Ranch becoming integral to the county's identity.

During the American Civil War, Throckmorton County was mostly sympathizers of the Confederacy. In the aftermath of the war, the area faced significant challenges, including conflicts with Native American tribes and the decline of the cattle industry. However, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought renewed prosperity and economic growth.

Today, Throckmorton County continues to be a rural community with an emphasis on agriculture, oil, and gas. Agriculture remains an important industry, with ranching and farming contributing to the local economy. The county is also a popular destination for hunting and outdoor recreational activities, thanks to its diverse wildlife and expansive natural landscapes. Throckmorton County's history is deeply intertwined with the westward expansion of Texas and its vibrant heritage is celebrated by its residents today.

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

  • 1858: Throckmorton County established
  • 1879: First post office opens in Throckmorton
  • 1881: First railroad, Wichita Valley Railway, reaches Throckmorton
  • 1886: Throckmorton County courthouse constructed
  • 1920s: Oil boom brings economic growth
  • 1930: Lake Throckmorton constructed for water supply
  • 1961: Interstate 20 built, enhancing transportation
  • 1990s: Decline in oil industry affects the economy