James and Rhoda Creel Beall Winters
Historical marker location:Winters Park, Set Aside to Honor Family of James and Rhoda Creel Beall Winters. Pioneers who led their large family here in 1834 from Tennessee. Two older sons, Wm. Carvin and John Frelan Winters, came to Texas in 1832. On receiving their good report, the parents moved to this land between east and west forks of San Jacinto River. With them came 10 of their children, some in-laws, and grandchildren. A daughter, Mrs. Caroline W. Fannin, died and was buried en route, on the Trinity River.
James Winters, veteran of several American wars, was 62 when he left his new home to fight for Texas in 1835 conflict with Mexico. In the 1836 Texas War for Independence, he and a 15-year-old son, Benjamin, hauled supplies to the Texas army. In that war were three sons, Wm. C., J. F., and James W. Winters; and two sons-in-law, Jackson Crouch and Charles D. Edwards.
Members of the Winters family helped to settle Caldwell, Frio, Hays, Lavaca, Live Oak and McMullen counties. The mill of Wm. Winters made much of the furniture for the 1857 Texas Capitol. In 1901 James W. Winters served Texas by helping mark battlefield at San Jacinto, where he fought 65 years earlier.
The senior James Winters (born 1773) died in 1848; he is buried 2 miles south, at Waverly. Rhoda (1784-1859) is buried at Oakville, Live Oak County
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 city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
In 1836, Walker County was officially established and named after Samuel Hamilton Walker, a Texas Ranger captain who died in the Mexican-American War. The county became a hub for trade and commerce, with the town of Huntsville serving as the county seat. The early residents engaged in farming, ranching, and timber industries, which became the backbone of the local economy.
During the Civil War, Walker County played a significant role as a major supplier of food and provisions to the Confederate army. However, the county also faced its share of hardships, including raids by Union troops and the devastation caused by the war. After the war, Walker County experienced a period of reconstruction and gradual recovery.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Walker County saw significant progress and development. The expansion of railroads brought new opportunities for trade and transportation, and the discovery of oil in the early 1900s further boosted the local economy. In recent decades, Walker County has continued to grow and evolve, embracing modern industries while preserving its unique heritage and natural beauty. Today, the county is known for its thriving educational institutions, correctional facilities, and vibrant community.
Walker County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Walker County, Texas.
- 1836: Walker County is established
- 1846: Huntsville becomes the county seat
- 1861: Walker County residents vote for secession from the Union
- 1870: The Houston and Great Northern Railroad reaches Huntsville
- 1900: The town of New Waverly is incorporated
- 1936: Sam Houston State Teachers College is established
- 1965: The Texas Department of Corrections is established in Huntsville
- 1970: San Jacinto Mall opens in Baytown
- 1999: The City of Huntsville celebrates its 150th anniversary
- 2007: The Texas Department of Criminal Justice moves its headquarters to Huntsville