Town of Iowa Park
Historical marker location:One of many small towns that sprang up ahead of the railroads as they crossed Texas in the 1800s. Located on the Fort Worth and Denver City Line, this town was first named Daggett's Switch in 1885 for a prominent rancher and railroad official. F. W. & D. C. contractor Gen. G. M. Dodge (already famous as builder of the Union Pacific) spearheaded the founding of Iowa Park by actively promoting a town on land he owned here. Many people from the Midwest--especially Iowa--were recruited to settle the infant town. Land promoters D. C. and A. J. Kolp, from Iowa, drew up a plat which featured many parks, in 1888. After this first period of rapid growth, Iowa Park settled down to more than 20 years of prosperity based on a thriving farm economy. Lightning struck, however, in 1918 when oil was discovered on a farm south of here. Speculators flooded the city and land prices sky-rocketed. The Iowa Park Producing and Refining Company was chartered in 1921 and operated until 1932. The boom itself gradually exhausted the resources here and was over by 1925. In 1924 the Wichita Valley Agriculture Experiment Station was built and is still functioning. A steady farm economy prevails again today
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 area that would become Wichita County was officially settled by European Americans in the mid-19th century. In 1856, the Texas legislature created Wichita County, naming it after the Wichita tribe. The construction of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad through the county in the late 19th century brought growth and development to the area, attracting settlers.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wichita County experienced the boom and bust cycles common in many Texas counties. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and cotton farming, were the primary industries, but oil was discovered in the region in the early 20th century, leading to a significant economic boost. The county became an important oil-producing region, with oil wells and refineries becoming a common sight.
In the present day, Wichita County continues to be a vital part of Texas. It is home to the city of Wichita Falls, the county seat and largest city, which serves as a regional hub for commerce, education, and healthcare. The county's economy has diversified, with sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and military operations playing a significant role. Wichita County's rich history and natural beauty, including attractions like the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, make it a fascinating place to explore and learn about.
Wichita County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Wichita County, Texas.
- 1872 - Wichita County is officially established on February 1.
- 1882 - The town of Wichita Falls is incorporated on September 27.
- 1905 - Wichita County experiences a significant population boom due to the discovery of oil.
- 1922 - The first hospital in Wichita County, Wichita General Hospital, is established.
- 1927 - Sheppard Air Force Base is built near Wichita Falls.
- 1957 - The Wichita Valley Airport opens, later renamed Wichita Falls Municipal Airport.
- 1964 - A destructive tornado hits Wichita Falls, causing significant damage and loss of life.
- 1995 - Wichita County voters approve the sale of alcohol, ending the county's prohibition era.
- 2007 - Lake Arrowhead State Park, a popular recreational area, opens in Wichita County.
- 2019 - The Wichita County Courthouse celebrates its 100th anniversary.
- 2020 - The COVID-19 pandemic impacts Wichita County, leading to various restrictions and measures.