Titus County C. S. A.
Historical marker location:Created and organized in 1846. Named for pioneer resident Andrew Jackson Titus (1814-1855), who opened county's first road, to river port in Jefferson.
Until after the Civil War, Titus County also included areas of present-day Franklin and Morris counties. Six mail routes going by horseback, had pack mules to follow lead horse. High waters in creeks and Sulphur River often halted travel. Record time to haul cotton to Jefferson was 5 days by ox wagon.
In 1860 had 9,648 people. Voted 411 to 275 in favor of secession. Sent 10 military companies to Civil War. While home tables drew heavily on game foods (deer, wild turkeys, pigeons, bear), county furnished Confederate commissary with beef, butter, corn, rice, cotton, oats, sweet potatoes, flour, cornmeal, leather, lumber, pottery, tobacco, whiskey and wool. Wartime manufacturing plants included 9 sawmills, 8 gristmills, tanneries and a steam powered distillery.
Mount Pleasant had a Confederate transportation depot employing blacksmiths, carpenters, harness makers, wheelwrights. It procured equipment and horses and mules, and made gear, harness and wagons for the purpose of moving men, army supplies and government owned cotton
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 Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
In the early years, the county was predominantly agricultural, with cotton being the primary crop. The development of transportation infrastructure, such as railroads and roads, played a significant role in the county's growth and success. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to the growth of towns such as Mount Pleasant, the county seat.
During the Civil War, Titus County, like many areas in Texas, was deeply affected by the conflict. Many residents joined the Confederate army, and the county faced economic hardships as a result. After the war, the region slowly recovered, and the economy diversified to include industries such as timber, oil, and manufacturing.
In the 20th century, Titus County continued to grow and develop. The discovery of oil in the 1930s brought significant prosperity to the county, attracting new industries and boosting the local economy. Today, Titus County remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The county has also worked to preserve its historical heritage, with several historical sites and museums showcasing its rich past.
Titus County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Titus County, Texas.
- 1846 - Titus County is established as a county in the Republic of Texas.
- 1852 - The county seat is established in the town of Mount Pleasant.
- Late 1800s - The county experiences significant growth due to the arrival of railroads.
- 1900s - Agriculture becomes a major industry in Titus County, with cotton, corn, and livestock farming dominating the economy.
- 1930s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in the county.
- Mid-1900s - Titus County experiences a period of industrial growth, attracting manufacturing companies to the area.
- 1970s - The county's economy shifts towards services, government, and trade.
- 1984 - Lake Bob Sandlin State Park is established, becoming a popular recreational area for residents and visitors.
- 2000s - Titus County continues to grow, attracting new businesses and investments.