Cool Springs (Tundra)
Historical marker location:THE COMMUNITY OF COOL SPRINGS WAS NAMED FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE DOZEN SPRINGS AND SEEPS THAT DOT THE IMMEDIATE AREA. THE SITE IS ALSO THE DIVIDING LINE BETWEEN THE WATERSHEDS OF THE TRINITY RIVER, SABINE RIVER AND NECHES RIVER. WHEN THE VAN ZANDT COUNTY COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED A GROUP OF MEN IN 1850 TO REVIEW AND LAY OUT A ROAD FROM THE NEW TOWN OF CANTON TO THE HENDERSON COUNTY SEAT OF ATHENS, COOL SPRINGS WAS AN IDEAL RESTING SPOT FOR TRAVELERS. THE CLOSE PROXIMITY OF A GIN OPERATED BY DAVID L. RILEY ON NEARBY MILL CREEK MADE COOL SPRINGS A CONVENIENT LOCATION TO PROCESS CROPS AND DREW SETTLERS TO THE AREA.
COOL SPRINGS PRIMITIVE BAPTIST CHURCH WAS ORGANIZED IN 1874 WITH JOHN R. MARTIN AS ITS FIRST PASTOR. THE CHURCH ORIGINALLY STOOD ONE QUARTER MILE FROM ITS PRESENT LOCATION ADJACENT TO THE COOL SPRINGS CEMETERY. THE COMMUNITY’S BUSINESS DISTRICT OPERATED APPROXIMATELY ONE MILE WEST FROM THIS SITE. BUSINESSES INCLUDED GINS, A DRUG STORE, A GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORE, AND A SERVICE STATION. THE LONE STAR SCHOOL (1883) OPERATED ACROSS THE ROAD FROM THE CHURCH AND CEMETERY. THE SCHOOL SERVED THE CHILDREN OF THE AREA UNTIL CONSOLIDATING WITH CANTON SCHOOLS IN 1944. THE EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH ORGANIZED IN 1898 AND LATER CHANGED ITS NAME TO TUNDRA BAPTIST CHURCH, B. M. A.
THE COMMUNITY WAS GRANTED A POST OFFICE IN 1899 UNDER THE NAME “TUNDRA.” THE COMMUNITY RETAINED THE NAME OF TUNDRA AFTER THE POST OFFICE CLOSED IN 1905. CHANGES IN AREA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION MADE THE ONCE VIBRANT COMMUNITY OBSOLETE, AND THE NUMBER OF RESIDENTS HAS DWINDLED THROUGH THE YEARS.
(2009)
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 county was officially formed in 1848 and named after Isaac Van Zandt, a politician and diplomat who played a significant role in the establishment of the Republic of Texas. Throughout the mid-19th century, the economy of Van Zandt County was primarily agricultural, with cotton being the dominant crop. The construction of railroads in the late 1800s brought new opportunities for trade and commerce to the area.
In the early 20th century, Van Zandt County experienced a boom in oil production, which significantly impacted the local economy. This led to the growth of oil-related industries and the establishment of several oil towns within the county. However, the Great Depression and subsequent decline in oil prices had a detrimental effect on the area, leading to economic challenges during the 1930s and 1940s.
Over the years, Van Zandt County has continued to grow and develop. Today, it boasts a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county is known for its scenic beauty, and there are several recreational areas such as lakes and state parks that attract visitors. Van Zandt County also has a strong sense of community, with numerous festivals and events celebrating its history and culture.
Van Zandt County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Van Zandt County, Texas.
- 1848 - Van Zandt County is established as one of the 36 original counties in Texas.
- 1850 - The county seat is established in Canton.
- 1861-1865 - Van Zandt County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
- 1894 - The construction of the Texas State Railroad reaches Van Zandt County, boosting the local economy.
- 1900 - An oil boom begins in the county, bringing new growth and prosperity.
- 1921 - The Dallas-Fort Worth Turnpike is completed, connecting Van Zandt County to the metroplex.
- 1930s-1940s - Van Zandt County suffers from the impacts of the Great Depression and World War II.
- 1960s-1970s - The county experiences a period of economic growth and population increase.
- 1980s - The county faces economic challenges due to declining oil prices.
- 2000 - Canton becomes known for its First Monday Trade Days, attracting visitors from all over the state.