Historical Marker

Captain William Benson

Historical marker location:
218 N Getty Street, Uvalde, Texas
( 218 North Getty Street, Uvalde)
Marker installed: 1983
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Maryland native William Benson (b. 1837) came to Texas after graduating from college as a civil engineer. After settling in Brazoria County he became a teacher. During the Civil War he commanded a cavalry regiment as one of the youngest captains in the Confederacy. Benson later came to Uvalde, where he again taught school. About 1874 he and his wife, Felicia (Yeiser), moved to this site and lived in a log house until this residence was completed about 1881. A leader in early irrigation projects, Benson continued to serve the community until his death in 1922.

1983

  A brief timeline of the Civil War

  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

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.

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Uvalde County, located in southwest Texas, has a rich and varied history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches, who hunted and camped along the rivers and springs of the region. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries began to settle in the area and establish missions, bringing with them a growing Hispanic population.

In the mid-19th century, Uvalde County experienced significant settlement and development fueled by the expansion of the cattle industry. Many ranchers and cowboys moved to the area, attracted by the abundant water sources and fertile grazing land. The establishment of the Great Western Cattle Trail in the late 1860s further reinforced Uvalde County's importance as a hub for the cattle industry.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Uvalde County played a significant role in various historical events. It was the birthplace of John Nance "Cactus Jack" Garner, who served as the Vice President of the United States under Franklin D. Roosevelt. The area was also a center of political activism during the Mexican Revolution, attracting prominent figures such as Francisco Madero and Pancho Villa.

In more recent years, Uvalde County has continued to evolve and grow. The development of oil and gas industries in the mid-20th century brought economic prosperity to the region. Today, Uvalde County is a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, ranching, and recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and nature tourism, that continue to attract visitors from around the world.

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

  • 1850: Uvalde County established as a county of the Republic of Texas
  • 1855: First permanent settlers arrive in the area
  • 1866: Fort Inge established as a military outpost
  • 1881: Railroad reaches Uvalde, spurring growth and development
  • 1883: City of Uvalde officially incorporated
  • 1891: The Uvalde Asphalt Paving Company is founded
  • 1900: Uvalde becomes a center for farming and ranching
  • 1914: Uvalde County Courthouse is completed
  • 1940: Garner Field established as a training facility during World War II
  • 1981: John Nance Garner Museum opens in Uvalde
  • 1998: Winter Garden Region becomes a major grape-growing area
  • 2010: Population of Uvalde County reaches over 26,000