Historical Marker

Joseph Alfred Woolfolk

Historical marker location:
SH 380, 2.5 mi. SW, Newcastle, Texas
( SH 380, 2.5 mi. SW)
Marker installed: 1993
Marker size: 27" x 42"

A native of Kentucky, Joseph Alfred Woolfolk (1836-1918) earned a law degree from the University of Louisville in 1856. He moved to Belknap, texas, in 1858, and was hired by the Texas Emigration and Land Company to survey land grants in the Peters Colony. Licensed to practice law by the First District Court in Young County, he served as County Attorney and County Clerk.

at the outbreak of the Civil War, Woolfolk joined a home guard Texas Rangers unit, and in late 1862 transferred into the regular Confederate army. Captured by Union troops in West Virginia in July 1863, he spent the remainder of the war in a prison camp in Ohio. Upon his release in 1865 he returned to his native Kentucky where he married Elizabeth J. Lewis (1846-1922). They became the parents of nine children.

The Woolfolks returned to Texas in 1867 and settled in Weatherford. In 1871 Woolfolk gained notoriety when he was appointed by the court to defend Satanta and Big Tree, Kiowa Indians on trial for murder in the infamous Salt Creek massacre near Jacksboro.

Woolfolk moved his family to a ranch in Young County in the late 1870s. He again served as County Attorney in 1881. He and Elizabeth are buried in a private family cemetery near this site

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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Young County, Texas, located in the northern part of the state, has a rich and vibrant history. The county was named after Colonel William Cocke Young, an early settler and Texas Ranger. The area was originally home to several indigenous tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa tribes, who relied on the abundant game and resources in the region.

European settlement in Young County began in the mid-19th century, with the arrival of immigrants from the southeastern United States. The county was officially established in 1856, and the town of Fort Belknap became the county seat. This fort played a crucial role in protecting pioneers from Native American attacks and served as an important trading post on the Butterfield Overland Mail route.

During the Civil War, Young County experienced great turmoil, with many residents supporting both the Union and Confederate causes. After the war, the county's economy began to develop, primarily through agriculture and ranching. Cattle raising became a significant industry, and the establishment of rail lines in the late 19th century further facilitated the growth of the county.

In the 20th century, Young County continued to evolve and diversify. Oil was discovered in the early 1900s, attracting many workers and leading to the establishment of new towns and industries. The construction of Lake Graham in the 1930s brought additional economic opportunities, particularly in tourism and outdoor recreation.

Today, Young County is a thriving community that celebrates its Western heritage and natural beauty. With a mix of historical sites, cultural events, and outdoor attractions, the county attracts visitors and residents alike.

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

  • 1854 - Young County is established and named after early Texas settler George Washington Young.
  • 1874 - The first permanent settlement in the county, Belknap, is established.
  • 1881 - Graham, the current county seat, is founded and quickly becomes a major trading center.
  • 1884 - The Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, which had been established in 1851, is officially closed.
  • 1890 - The population of Young County reaches over 9,000 residents.
  • 1917-1918 - Young County experiences an oil boom, leading to increased population and economic growth.
  • 1940 - The Young County Historical Museum opens in Graham, preserving the county's history.
  • 1960s-1970s - Young County begins to diversify its economy with the development of manufacturing and service industries.
  • 2010 - The population of Young County is estimated to be around 18,550 residents.