State Antiquities Landmark

Throckmorton County Courthouse & Jail

101 North Minter Avenue, Throckmorton Texas
Significance:
courthouse

Jurisdiction:
County of Throckmorton

State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.

SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.

Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.

houses residential buildings municipal official Classical Revival (architectural style)
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Texas random facts
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 concise overview of the key events in the history 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