Historical Marker

Van Zandt County Poor Farm

Marker installed: 2011
Marker size: 27" x 42"

IN THE EARLY DAYS OF VAN ZANDT COUNTY, FAMILIES, CHURCHES AND CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS TOOK CARE OF PEOPLE IN NEED. AFTER THE CIVIL WAR, THE HIGH NUMBER OF INDIGENTS FORCED AN ADDENDUM TO THE STATE CONSTITUTION MAKING CARE FOR THE POOR THE RESPONSIBILITY OF EACH COUNTY. IN 1877, THE VAN ZANDT COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT AUTHORIZED A SEARCH FOR AN APPROPRIATE SITE FOR A COUNTY POOR FARM. AFTER SEVEN YEARS, IN AUGUST 1884, COUNTY JUDGE JOHN S. SPINKS APPOINTED SEVERAL MEN TO FIND AND PURCHASE LAND NEAR CANTON TO ESTABLISH A POOR FARM. THE SITE CHOSEN CONTAINED 339 ACRES ABOUT FOUR MILES SOUTH OF CANTON. M.V. BURNS WAS THE FIRST APPOINTED SUPERINTENDENT PAID BY THE COUNTY TO OVERSEE THE FARM, CLEAN UP THE LAND AND COMPLETE IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SITE. MR. BURNS RESIGNED IN 1885 AND HUGH GUINN TOOK OVER TO COMPLETE HIS TERM.

THE FIRST KNOWN RESIDENTS OF THE POOR FARM WERE TWO LADIES DECLARED PAUPERS IN MARCH 1886 BY THE COMMISSIONERS COURT. OTHER RESIDENTS INCLUDED THE ELDERLY, WIDOWS WITH CHILDREN WHO HAD NO MEANS OF SUPPORT AND THOSE CONVICTED OF PETTY CRIMES WHO WOULD WORK AT THE FARM TO PAY OFF THEIR FINES. IN 1901, COUNTY JUDGE JOHN W. DAVIDSON AUTHORIZED THE SALE OF THE POOR FARM AND BOUGHT A LARGER SITE IN THE SAME AREA. A 14 BY 16 FEET CALABOOSE WAS BUILT ON THE NEW SITE IN 1901 FOR THE SAFEKEEPING OF CONVICTS AT NIGHT. THE STRUCTURE IS STILL STANDING. AFTER THE POOR FARM WAS ESTABLISHED, PAUPERS WERE BURIED IN THE POOR FARM CEMETERY. THE FARM WAS OPERATIONAL UNTIL OCTOBER 1928. THE VAN ZANDT COUNTY POOR FARM PROVIDED POVERTY-STRICKEN CITIZENS WITH SHELTER, FOOD AND A READY MEANS OF SUBSISTENCE FOR 42 YEARS

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.

Poor Farms
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Van Zandt County is located in the northeastern part of Texas and has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The area was initially settled by Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. European settlers began arriving in the late 1830s and early 1840s, establishing communities along rivers and creeks.

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.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history 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.