Historical Marker

First Settlement in Knox County

Historical marker location:
Benjamin, Texas
( Courthouse Square, Highway 82, Benjamin)
Marker installed: 1967
Marker size: state-approved private marker

One side: In the immediate area of the L Bar Ranch were 12 families, most of them stockholders in the Wichita & Brazos Cattle Company. To assure them church and school privileges, in 1885 H. G. Bedford started the town of Benjamin, located 6 miles west of The Narrows, naming it for his eldest son. In 1886 he was instrumental in getting Knox County organized with Benjamin as county seat.

FOUNDERS of BENJAMIN H. G. Bedford, Rufus Browder, G.B. Stewart, L.W. Ricketts, R.P. Dimmett, W.W. Wetherly, T.G. Stewart, Ed W. Bedford, J.W. Hinton, A.E. Brannin, R.D. Goree, H. C. Thompson. Other side

L - RANCH; HILORY GREEN BEDFORD

In 1884, Hilory G. Bedford formed Wichita & Brazos Stock Company to own and operate the L Bar Ranch. Retaining 51% stock, he became president with R. P. Dimmitt secretary. This company had a herd of some 8,000 cattle, grazing on the open range, centered north to south at The Narrows, between Wichita & Brazos rivers, branding S on neck and L - on left side.

Headquarters of ranch were 4 miles northeast of The Narrows on north bank S. Wichita River, about center of present John Ed Jones ranch. 1886-1887 loss of many cattle by severe drouth and blizzards and sharp drop in prices caused dissolution of W & B Stock Company and disposal of ranch in 1887.

Erected by some descendants of first settlers in tribute to settlers and their leader, H.G. Bedford. - 1967

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.

settlements
Texas is not a state – it’s a state of mind
John Steinbeck in Travels with Charley
Knox County, Texas, located in the north-central part of the state, has a rich and storied history dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, the area transitioned to Spanish control in the late 18th century. In 1836, Texas gained independence from Mexico, and the region subsequently became part of the Republic of Texas.

The area that would become Knox County was surveyed and opened for settlement in the late 1850s. Early pioneers, predominantly of European descent, began to establish farms and ranches. The county was officially organized in 1886 and named after Henry Knox, an American Revolutionary War general and the first U.S. Secretary of War.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Knox County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the cattle industry and the extension of railroads in the area brought prosperity and attracted new settlers. The discovery of oil in the county in the 1920s further spurred economic growth and provided employment opportunities for the local population.

In the modern era, Knox County continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture, ranching, and oil production remaining important industries. The county has also preserved its historical sites and landmarks, such as the community of Benjamin, which was designated a National Historic District in 1992. Today, Knox County is a close-knit community that cherishes its past while embracing the opportunities of the present.

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

  • 1858: Knox County is established and named after Henry Knox, the first Secretary of War for the United States.
  • 1879: The first courthouse in Knox County is built in Munday, which becomes the county seat.
  • Late 1800s: Ranching dominates the local economy, with large cattle operations covering the county.
  • 1920s: Oil is discovered in Knox County, leading to an economic boom as drilling companies flock to the area.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression hits Knox County hard, causing economic hardships for the residents.
  • 1969: The Fort Knox II Wind Farm, one of the largest wind farms in the United States, is built in Knox County.
  • 1980s: The farming industry experiences a decline due to droughts and changes in agricultural practices.
  • 1990s: Knox County becomes a popular destination for hunting enthusiasts, with its abundant deer and turkey population.
  • 2007: Knox City celebrates its centennial, marking 100 years since its founding.
  • 2010s: The county diversifies its economy, focusing on renewable energy, tourism, and small-scale agriculture.