Glasscock County Courthouse and Jail
Historical marker location:On May 9, 1893, a little over one month from the date of Glasscock County's formal organization, the first county commissioner's court issued bonds to erect a combination courthouse/jail building. L. T. Noyes of Houston, with the assistance of plasterer William T. Lovell, completed the structure on February 12, 1894. Originally, the ground floor of the building was used for court sessions and the second floor used as the jail. The 2-story stone building, later used only as a jail, features subtle Classical influences, including corner pilasters and a tall corbelled cornice.
County bonds issued through the First State Bank of Garden City in 1909 were used to employ Mutual Construction Company, Inc. of Louisville, Kentucky, and architects Edward C. Hasford & Co., of Dallas, to build a new courthouse. The 2 1/2 story Classical Revival structure, constructed of 3-foot thick native stone from a local ranch owned by Steve Calverley, was completed on August 27, 1910. It features colossal Doric columns supporting its open pediment and a horizontal belt course which follows its 2nd floor window sills.
The current Glasscock County Courthouse has been in continuous use since 1910. The original courthouse/jail structure was replaced by a new jail in 1980.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks - 1962
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.
Texas was the product of men who knew how to use their brains as well as their fists.
During its early years, Glasscock County was primarily an agricultural area, with ranching and farming being the main economic activities. Cattle ranching was especially prominent, and many small family-owned ranches were established in the county. However, the area faced major challenges due to its arid climate and lack of water resources, with droughts often hitting the region.
In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil brought significant changes to Glasscock County. The county experienced a boom in oil production, which led to an influx of people and an economic boost. The discovery of oil also brought infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of roads and pipelines. However, in the 1940s, the oil production declined, and agriculture once again became the primary industry in the county.
Today, Glasscock County is still primarily an agricultural area, with ranching and farming continuing to be the main sources of income for its residents. The county has also seen some growth in the renewable energy sector, with the development of wind farms. Glasscock County remains a small rural community, known for its friendly residents and tight-knit community spirit.
Glasscock County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Glasscock County, Texas.
- 1880: Glasscock County is established and named after George Washington Glasscock, a Texas Revolution soldier.
- 1887: The first post office is established in the county.
- 1908: The town of Garden City is founded.
- 1909: The first school in Glasscock County is built.
- 1926: The discovery of oil in the county leads to a boom in population and economic growth.
- 1932: Glasscock County's first elected officials are appointed.
- 1951: The Glasscock County Courthouse is built.
- 1970: The population of Glasscock County reaches its peak at around 2,000 residents.
- 1992: The Glasscock County Museum is established to preserve the history of the area.