Historical Marker

Marion Wesley (Baldy) Crowell

Historical marker location:
Center and Third St., Louise, Texas
( Center and Third Sts, in front of Justice of the Peace, Pct. 3, Louise)
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Born in DeSoto. In World War I, served with distinction in Co. C, 111th Rngineers, A. E. F.

Moved to Louise, 1933. Married Jessie Thomas, 1936. Was twice commander, Craig-Harriss Post, American Legion. First president Louise Chamber of Commerce. A leader in religious, civic and political affairs.

"Leave it to Baldy," (a tribute by Senator culp Krueger): Leave it to Baldy, oft heard refrain. Accomplished by Baldy--his claim to fame. Country boy with a gentle air; for others always time to spare.

Served his community, fellow man; worked in harmony with God's plan. "Leave it to Baldy!" rings in our ears, our charge, our challenge through coming years. (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.

World War I military topics
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
Texas random facts
Wharton County, Texas, is located in the southeastern part of the state. The area that is now known as Wharton County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and the Apache. In the early 1820s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive in the region, attracted by the fertile soil and abundant wildlife.

In 1846, the Texas legislature established Wharton County, named after brothers William Harris Wharton and John Austin Wharton, who were prominent figures in the Texas Revolution. The county was officially organized in 1848, with the town of Wharton selected as the county seat. The growth of the county was fueled by the development of the railroads, which provided transportation for agricultural products such as cotton, corn, and cattle.

During the Civil War, Wharton County was heavily affected by the conflict. Many of the county's residents supported the Confederacy, with several military units being raised in the area. However, the county also had a significant number of Union sympathizers, leading to tensions and conflicts within the community. After the war, the county gradually recovered and experienced economic growth, with new industries such as oil and gas exploration contributing to its prosperity.

Today, Wharton County is a diverse community with a strong agricultural base. The county is known for its rice and cattle production, as well as its oil and gas industries. It is also home to several historical sites, including the Wharton County Courthouse, which was built in 1889 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With its rich history and thriving economy, Wharton County continues to be an important part of Texas's cultural and economic landscape.

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

  • 1846: Wharton County is established by the Texas legislature
  • 1848: The first settlements are established in the county
  • 1849: The town of Wharton is founded and becomes the county seat
  • 1850: The population of the county is 1,075
  • 1861-1865: Wharton County residents participate in the American Civil War
  • 1881: The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway reaches Wharton County
  • 1900: The Galveston hurricane devastates the county, causing widespread destruction
  • 1930: The county's population reaches its peak at 39,195
  • 1965: The construction of the Wharton County Junior College is completed
  • 1985: The county courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places