Historical Marker

Wheeler County Courthouse

Marker installed: 2000
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Named for Royal T. Wheeler, an early Texas jurist, Wheeler County was created by the Texas State Legislature in 1876. In 1879 the county was organized and Mobeetie (then known as Sweetwater), the only town in the county, became the county seat. A stone courthouse was erected from locally quarried materials in 1880. That structure was replaced with a wood frame building in 1888.

As the area grew and its center changed, the town of Wheeler was officially designated the county seat in 1908. The wooden courthouse was moved to this site, but by 1913 it was too small to serve the county's needs. A separate building was erected on the southwest corner of the courthouse square that year to house the county clerk's office; it was enlarged in 1923. A bond election held in 1925 set aside funds for a new courthouse. The 1888 courthouse was sold to Sheriff Riley Price, who dismantled it and used the lumber to build barns on his ranch east of town.

Designed by E. H. Eads of Shamrock, the edifice was built by local contractors Hughes and Campbell. Featuring Palladian windows and Corinthian columns characteristic of the Classical Revival style, the 1925 Wheeler County Courthouse typifies the favored style of American public buildings of its time. The 1913 county clerk's office was torn down in 1929; curbs and sidewalks were in place after the summer of 1930. Gas heat and a water system were installed in 1926. The streets on all four sides of the courthouse were paved in 1944 and the surrounding streets in the late 1970s. Standing prominently on the town square, the historic Wheeler County Courthouse continues to serve as the center of local government.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-2000

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.

courthouses Classical Revival (architectural style)
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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