Historical Marker

Shamrock Water Tower

Historical marker location:
Shamrock, Texas
( intersection of Main St. & E. Railroad Ave.)
Marker installed: 2008
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Soon after residents voted to incorporate in March 1911, Shamrock officials identified the need for a reliable waterworks for the city. Prior to that time, citizens got their water from one of two town wells or hauled it to town in barrels on wagons. A November 1912 election authorized the sale of bonds in the amount of $15,000 for a drinking water system that included a tower and reservoir on Railroad Avenue. In September 1915, city leaders accepted the bid of the Chicago Bridge and Iron Company of Chicago, Illinois to build the water tower.

The all-steel structure was designed with a cylindrical tank with a hemispherical bottom, supported by four latticed channel columns held together with metal tie rods. The large tank has a capacity of 75,000 gallons, rising 176 feet above ground level. Workers utilized a steam thresing machine to raise the tower's standpipe. The tower was constructed of railway bridge grade steel riveted together using rivet grade steel. Engineers also had to account for the maximum pressure of panhandle winds upon the load of the structure plus the weight of the water. According to records of the CB&I Co., in business since 1889, this substantial tower is the tallest tank of its class ever built by the company, and it remains one of the tallest water tanks in Texas. Built to provide water to a growing community, the Shamrock water tower is also visible for about ten miles in any direction. Early 20th century travelers stopped here to water their horses or wagon teams in the concrete troughs under the tower, and travelers continue to mark their progress by the tower, an engineering and tourism icon. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-2008

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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Wheeler County, located in the state of Texas, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Kiowa, Comanche, and Cheyenne, who relied on the bountiful resources of the land for survival. In the early 18th century, Spanish explorers and traders began to venture into the region, establishing some of the first European presence in what is now Wheeler County.

The county's formal establishment occurred in 1876, when it was carved out of Bexar County and named after Royal T. Wheeler, a chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court. During the late 19th century, Wheeler County experienced rapid growth as settlers migrated to the area to take advantage of the Homestead Act, which offered land grants to individuals and families. Cattle ranching became a prominent industry, and the county's economy thrived.

In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil in the nearby Panhandle fields brought a new wave of prosperity to Wheeler County. Oil wells were drilled, and the county experienced an economic boom, attracting both workers and investors. However, this period of prosperity was followed by the Great Depression, which led to a decline in economic activity and population.

In recent years, Wheeler County has focused on preserving its historical heritage and natural beauty. The county offers visitors opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, fishing, and camping. Additionally, museums and historical sites in the area showcase the county's fascinating past, allowing residents and visitors to appreciate the rich history of Wheeler County, Texas.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Wheeler County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Wheeler County is officially established on August 21, 1876
  • 1880 - The town of Mobeetie becomes the first county seat
  • 1881 - Wheeler City is founded and becomes the new county seat
  • 1886 - The first courthouse in Wheeler City is built
  • 1900 - A new brick courthouse is constructed in Wheeler City
  • 1930 - The discovery of oil leads to a boom in Wheeler County
  • 1950 - A new courthouse is built in Wheeler to accommodate the growing population
  • 1960 - The population of Wheeler County reaches its peak at over 10,000 residents
  • 1986 - A tornado devastates parts of Wheeler County, causing widespread destruction
  • 2000 - The population of Wheeler County decreases to around 5,000 residents
  • 2010 - Wheeler County celebrates its 134th anniversary