Old Alice Road
Historical marker location:Once used by Indian tribes, then widened by Mexican oxcarts and Spanish expeditions, this trail has been called the Old Alice Road since its establishment as a stagecoach line from San Antonio to Brownsville in the 1860s. It was the main route between Brownsville and central and east Texas. Dubbed "The Cotton Road" in the Civil War, when Union troops blockaded Texas ports, this was the route by which cotton was moved down to Mexico. When the railroad arrived in south Texas in 1904, the old stage route fell into disuse. By the late 20th century, only impressions of the trail remained. (1997)
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 Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
The area was primarily inhabited by indigenous people for centuries before European colonizers arrived in the 18th century. The Spanish explorers and missionaries had a significant influence on the region, establishing several missions and ranchos. The impact of Spanish colonization can still be seen in the county's numerous Spanish place names.
During the 19th century, settlement began to increase with the arrival of European and American settlers. Agriculture, especially cotton farming, became the backbone of the county's economy. The development of railroads in the late 1800s further encouraged growth, as transportation became more accessible. The completion of the St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway in the early 1900s played a crucial role in connecting Willacy County to other parts of the state and the country, leading to further economic expansion.
In the mid-20th century, the county's economy underwent a major shift from agriculture to oil and gas production. The discovery of oil and the establishment of oil fields brought jobs and prosperity to the area. Alongside the oil industry, the county also became known for its livestock production and tourism, with its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico making it a popular vacation destination. Today, Willacy County continues to evolve, with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, energy, tourism, and manufacturing.
Willacy County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Willacy County, Texas.
- 1829: Mexican land grants are awarded in the area that is now Willacy County.
- 1836: Texas gains independence from Mexico.
- 1850s: Settlers begin to establish farms and ranches in the area.
- 1856: The community of Santa Monica is established.
- 1875: The town of Willacy is founded.
- 1881: The St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway reaches the area.
- 1911: Willacy County is officially formed from parts of Cameron and Hidalgo Counties.
- 1921: A hurricane devastates the area, causing significant damage and loss of life.
- 1930s: The region experiences an economic boom due to the discovery of oil and natural gas.
- 1962: The Raymondville Detention Center is established as the first privately operated immigration detention center in the United States.