Historical Marker

Frontier Times Museum

Historical marker location:
Bandera, Texas
( Corner of Thirteenth Street and Pecan Street, Bandera.)
Marker installed: 1965
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Built 1933 to house Western collection of J. Marvin Hunter, Sr. (1880-1957), noted historian, journalist, editor and author. Having lived throughout the west, he settled in Bandera as owner of "New Era", 1921-1934. In 1923 he founded "Frontier Times"--a magazine devoted to history, border tragedy, and pioneer achievement. By 1926 he was adding relics to the museum's Western library. He financed construction of museum by sale of his books. Purchased after his death by Mr. and Mrs. F.B. Doane, it is maintained by Doane Foundation. (1965)

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.

journalists museums
Texan women are wonderful - they are strong, ambitious, and know how to get what they want
Jerry Hall in Vogue
Bandera County, located in Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was initially home to various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche tribes, who resided along the banks of the Medina River. However, it was in the early 19th century that European settlers began to arrive in the region.

The first recorded settlement in Bandera County was established in 1852 by John James and Charles DeMontel. The town of Bandera was soon founded, and in 1856, Bandera County was officially created. The county was named after the nearby Bandera Pass, a mountain pass that was used by early Spanish explorers as a trail marker.

During the 19th century, Bandera County became an important center for ranching and agriculture. The fertile land and abundant water sources made it an ideal location for raising cattle and farming. The region quickly developed a reputation for its strong cowboy and ranching culture.

In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil in nearby counties brought economic prosperity to Bandera County. Numerous oil wells were drilled, and the area experienced a boom in population and development. Despite the decline of the oil industry in later years, Bandera County continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, known for its historic downtown, natural beauty, and western heritage.

Today, Bandera County remains a charming rural community that celebrates its rich history and maintains its Western traditions. Visitors can explore the numerous historic sites, museums, and cowboy-themed events, immersing themselves in the county's unique culture and heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bandera County, Texas.

  • 1856 - Bandera County is created from parts of Bexar, Uvalde, Medina, and Kerr counties.
  • Late 1850s - Settlers begin to establish homesteads and ranches in the area.
  • 1870 - The first courthouse is built in Bandera, the county seat.
  • Late 1870s - The population booms due to the expansion of the cattle industry.
  • 1891 - The Bandera County Courier newspaper is founded.
  • 1933 - The Bandera Electric Cooperative is formed to bring electricity to rural areas.
  • 1940s - Ranching and farming become the primary economic activities in the county.
  • 1975 - Bandera becomes the "Cowboy Capital of the World" and hosts the first Cowboy Capital Rodeo.
  • 2002 - The Bandera County Library is opened.