Historical Marker

Old Zapata

Historical marker location:
US 83, Courthouse Grounds, Zapata, Texas
( Courthouse, US 83, Zapata.)
Marker installed: 1979
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1770 residents of Revilla, Mexico, established a village (4.5 mi. W) on land granted by Jose de Escandon. The same year the Spanish built a fort nearby. In 1842 the men on the ill-fated expedition to Mier occupied the village while they foraged for supplies. First named "Habitacion," the town grew to be second largest on the Rio Grande. It was named for friendly Indians living in "carrizo" (cane) huts. In 1858, after Zapata County was created, the name changed to "Bellville" and then back to "Carrizo." In 1898 "Zapata" was chosen for Col. Antonio Zapata, a rancher executed for his part in the 1839 fight to found the Republic of the Rio Grande. Henry Redmond, a well-known area rancher, was the first county judge. Another county judge was Jose Antonio George Navarro, son of Jose Antonio Navarro, one of the two native-born signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

The elimination of duty free trade along the border in 1903 caused an economic decline. With the coming of irrigation, a rich agricultural area developed. After the construction of Falcon Dam and the flooding of Old Zapata by lake water, the county seat was relocated at this site on land originally granted to Bartolome Cuellar and Jacinto de Cuellar. (1979)

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.

Mexican immigrants immigration settlements colonization water topics ghost towns
Texas has yet to learn submission to any oppression, come from what source it may.
Sam Houston in Speech to the Constitutional Convention of 1868
Zapata County, located in southern Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Coahuiltecan and Carrizo peoples, who relied on the Rio Grande River for sustenance and trade. Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, followed by Mexican settlers who established ranching communities.

During the Texas Revolution in the 1830s, Zapata County was part of the disputed territory between Mexico and the Republic of Texas. In the following decades, the area witnessed ongoing conflicts between Mexican cowboys and American ranchers seeking control over the land and cattle. In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo officially established the Rio Grande as the boundary between the United States and Mexico, solidifying Zapata County's place within Texas.

The county was officially organized in 1858 and named after Colonel Jose Antonio de Zapata, a local military hero. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Zapata County experienced economic growth through cattle ranching, oil exploration, and agriculture. The discovery of oil in the region brought an influx of workers and increased development.

In more recent times, Zapata County has played a role in immigration and border enforcement. As a border county, it has faced challenges related to drug trafficking and illegal immigration. The community has worked with local, state, and federal agencies to address these issues and maintain the safety and well-being of its residents. Today, Zapata County remains a vibrant community with a blend of Mexican and American cultures, attractive landscapes, and a close connection to its historical roots.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Zapata County, Texas.

  • 1767: The area that would become Zapata County is part of the Spanish province of Nuevo Santander.
  • 1848: Following the Mexican-American War, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed, and the land becomes part of the United States.
  • 1858: Zapata County is established as a separate county from Starr County.
  • 1870: Zapata becomes the county seat.
  • 1884: The International-Great Northern Railroad is completed, opening up the area for increased settlement and trade.
  • 1920s: Oil is discovered in Zapata County, leading to a period of economic growth.
  • 1944: Falcon Dam is completed, creating Falcon Lake and providing water for irrigation and hydroelectric power.
  • 1996: Zapatistas, a revolutionary leftist group from Chiapas, Mexico, establish a camp in Zapata County in solidarity with indigenous peoples.