Historical Marker

Major Robert S. Neighbors

Historical marker location:
SH 251, S of Newcastle, Newcastle, Texas
( From Newcastle, take SH 251 South 3 mi to Fort Belknap)
Marker installed: 1967
Marker size: 27" x 42"

As Indian agent, forceful peacemaker and humanist, Maj. Neighbors had more influence over Texas' Indians than any other man of his era; came to Texas in 1836.

He served as quartermaster in Texas army, 1839-41. While on Texas Ranger duty in San Antonio, 1842, he was taken as a prisoner of war to Mexico by Gen. Adrian Woll and spent 18 months in Perote Prison.

Began his service to the Indians in 1845. As agent for Lipan-Apache and Tonkawa tribes, he used field system of control, visiting Indian homes, learning a red man's way of life, improving living condition, helping them to trade. He ably defended their rights, was counselor and friend, and sought new homes for them, never faltering in commitment to their safety.

As a Texas commissioner in 1850 he organized El Paso County; he was also a state representative, 1851-1852, and a presidential elector in 1852.

Major Neighbors later became the supervising agent for all of the Indians in Texas. Frontier civilians and soldiers failed to support his Indian policies. Many became hostile. On Sept. 14, 1859, he was murdered near here by a white man as he was returning after safely removing all reservation Indians from Texas. He was buried in Belknap Cemetery (1/2 mile E. of Town)

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.