Historical Marker

Third Site for Travis County Government

Historical marker location:
Austin, Texas
( Travis County Courthouse, 11th and Guadalupe St.)
Marker installed: 1965
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Courthouse built here in 1939, 91st year of Travis County, which in early Texas was in municipality of Mina (later Bastrop), or Travis District, named for Wm. B.Travis, commander at the Alamo. Site of present-day Austin was chosen in 1839 (4th year of the Republic of Texas) as location for capital, and named for the father of Texas. Local county government began immediately, with setting up of militia beats. Mormon settlers in 1839 built the first jail and also the first gristmill. Congress in January 1840 formally created the county, which by then had 856 people. 5 forts were in operation to guard against Comanche Indians, whose raids went on as late as 1863. Dams in the Colorado River provided industrial power and created fine recreation lakes. State government, University of Texas, Bergstorm Air Force Base, public institutions and private businesses employ working forces from the county population of 237,000. The county's 125th anniversary was attended 1964 under the administration of Judge J. H. Watson and commissioners Robert Barker, Lawson Boothe, N. L. Gault and Arthur Swenson. Historic county emblem was restored and sponsored by county auditor Weldon S.Horton. Flag was designed by Mrs.Jessie McIlroy Smith. (1965)

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.

law courthouses buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is one of the largest universities in the United States and has produced many notable alumni, including several U.S. presidents.
Texas random facts
Travis County, Texas, is located in the central part of the state and encompasses the capital city of Austin. The county has a rich history that spans centuries, beginning with the indigenous Native American tribes who inhabited the area long before European settlement.

European exploration of the region began in the 17th century when Spanish explorers ventured into what is now Travis County. However, it was not until the early 19th century that permanent settlements were established. In 1835, the area became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico, and the county was officially created in 1840.

Travis County was named after William Barret Travis, a Texas Revolution hero who commanded the Texan forces during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Throughout the 19th century, the county experienced significant growth and development, driven by factors such as the arrival of immigrants, the expansion of the railroad, and the establishment of institutions like the University of Texas at Austin in 1883.

During the 20th century, Travis County continued to evolve and modernize. Austin, the county seat and state capital, grew into a vibrant and culturally diverse city, known for its live music scene, technological innovations, and progressive policies. The county became a center for government, education, and business, attracting a wide range of industries and residents.

Today, Travis County is one of the most populous and economically vibrant counties in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and a wide range of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. The county's history, coupled with its present-day dynamism, contributes to its unique character and makes it a significant region in the Lone Star State.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Travis County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The area that would become Travis County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache.

  • 1691: Spanish explorers, including Domingo Terán de los Ríos and Alonso de León, explored the region.

  • 1835: Texas Revolution against Mexico begins, and the area becomes part of the Republic of Texas.

  • 1839: Waterloo, a small village settled near the Colorado River, is selected as the site for the new capital of the Republic of Texas.

  • 1840: Travis County is officially established and named after William Barret Travis, a hero of the Texas Revolution.

  • 1842: The capital is officially named Austin after Stephen F. Austin, "The Father of Texas."

  • 1871: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Austin, facilitating transportation and spurring growth.

  • 1883: The University of Texas at Austin is founded.

  • 1891: The Texas State Capitol building, an iconic landmark, is completed.

  • 1930s-1940s: The construction of dams, including Mansfield Dam and Tom Miller Dam, on the Colorado River provides flood control and creates Lake Travis and Lake Austin, respectively.

  • 1970s-1990s: Austin experiences significant growth and becomes known for its live music scene, technology industry, and progressive culture.

  • 2000s-Present: Travis County continues to grow in population and economic significance, with Austin being recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.