Frontier Times Magazine

MARY E. BELL OF KIMBLE COUNTY, TEXAS DESCRIBES PIONEER LIFE

2015-11-13

From J. Marvin Hunter's Frontier Times Magazine, April, 1941

There is now living in London, in the northeast corner of Kimble county, on the waters of the Big Saline Creek, one of those rare survivors of pioneer days whose babyhood was spent during the trying days of the Civil War, who remembers the pinching poverty, whose memory is as bright as brilliant sunshine, whose eighty-three years sit lightly on her shoulders, and is not reflected from the silvery locks of her hair. Her name is Mary E. Bell. She lives happily amid surroundings with which she has been familiar for over fifty years. She was known in Lavaca county as Mary E. New, a daughter of William New, who lived eighteen miles south of the small town of Hallettsville, at Hope. Here she first heard the rumbling of the war, and by the time she could talk, the red glare of battle had flamed over the Southland and the men folks had to go to war. The woman were left to do the work and carry on. All the privations known to frontier conditions obtained in Lavaca, but with stout hearts the women met the situation with brave souls. The New home had its one big room for living purposes, but the kitchen was separate, a few feet from the main room, which was the family room parlor, bedroom, living room, and dining room on all occasions. There were no cook stoves in the county and no sewing machines. There was the trundle bed under the big bed in the living room, and at night the trundle bed was rolled out into the center of the room and the small children piled in till it was full. Quilts, blankets, and robes were kept stacked up in a corner of the room. There was a big fireplace with its old black log. It was kept burning through the night by heaping ashes on the coals so it would smoulder till morning. There were no matches. When Mary New's mother ran out of fire, one of the children was dispatched to Grandpa's place, one-fourth of a mile away, with a tin bucket, to get a chunk of fire which was carefully nurtured on the way home to prevent its dying before its arrival. It was not often that the fire was permitted to expire or "go out"at the New home, but this sometimes happened in the best regulated of frontier families. The writer of these lines has often had to trudge half a mile to a neighbor's for fire with which to cook the morning meal.

They had no cook stoves, no sewing machines, no matches, and that is not all! During the Civil War there was no coffee. Did the pioneer woman sit and pine and surrender? Not for a minute. She had never seen a cookstove and did not know what it was; she had never seen a sewing machine and had not even dreamed of one; but she did know what coffee was and they were all regular coffee topers. When the war stopped this, Mrs. New cut up sweet potatoes in small bits, strung them on a string, dried them, and parched them like coffee. Then they were ground in the old coffee mill. There you were sweet potato coffee. In some sections the pioneers used barley for coffee.

The biscuits were cooked on the "old baker"' on the old fire place and they would make a modern biscuit look like the New Deal currency in comparison with an old twenty-dollar gold piece that you did not have to hide. An iron rod ran across the fire place and the old pot likker pot hung from it and this was the receptacle for hog's head, for jowls, for greens, and at the bottom of the pot was that elixir of pioneer life—pot likker.

There was the old loom and Ma New wove all the homespun dresses that she and her daughters wore. Little Mary can still remember when the old spinning wheel sang its song in the New frontier home. The homespun was made into breeches for the men and the linsey woolsey for the women. Their first calico dresses were obtained after the war.

The News had no money, but they had that current money of the ages—eggs. Your pioneer hen was the greatest mint in the world. The New children had their favorite hens.

After hogs were killed and the meat placed in the smoke house, there began a systematic saving of all scraps of bacon rinds, scraps of fat, old lard, etc. and all these went into the box or barrel that was universally known as the "soap grease" box or barrel. At the same time that saving of "soap grease" began, the old ash hopper was cleaned, filled with new ashes, inundated with pure water, and there began that frontier slow process of collecting the lye for the spring making of "soft soap."

The old ash hopper was made of boards four feet in length, inserted on end in a V-shaped trough, cut out of a log some twelve to eighteen inches in diameter. The log was slightly inclined so that the lye would course its way into the crock at the lower end of the log. These crocks of lye and the barrels of soap grease were kept till the spring when the good housewife by the alchemy of experience converted the caustic lye and the grease into a pot of soft soap that looked while hot like a jar of molasses. After the soap partially cooled into a thick mass, it was poured out on a plank and allowed to solidify. It was then cut into slabs or blocks or cakes, and placed on a sack to dry out. ~ l was stored away and kept ready for "wash day. Woe be to the dirty shirt that thought it could withstand this old fashioned frontier soap when the "battling stick" and the strong muscles of Mrs. New and her daughter Mary bent over rubbing board or gave the cloth that frontier twist and wrung the water out.

The girls, Mary and the others, milked the cows in the old piggin and poured it in the old cedar bucket, and churned in the old fashioned dasher churn. There to this good day of 1941 Mrs. Mary Bell has the dasher of the old churn.

After the war Mary New studied McGuffy's readers and Webster's old Blue Back Speller, but her most vivid recollection is of the split log bench on which she sat and worked her "sums" in arithmetic on the slate, pieces of which she treasures to this good hour. Blackboards had not been heard of. During the winter the old square dances were held at the homes of neighbors. When asked about the old dance tunes, she recalled first of all that gallant old time "Turkey in the Straw. " She also remembered "Cotton-eyed Joe" and "The Arkansas Traveler. "

Mary New married William Bell and moved to Kimble county in 1889, fifty-two yews ago, where she has been a factor of the west. For fifty years she has been in old Kimble, but came after the Indians had ceased to be a menace.

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Some Early Bell County History - L. A. Chanslor

2014-10-07

[From J. Marvin Hunter’s Frontier Times Magazine, March, 1928]

THREE YEARS after the organization of Bell county and in the fall of the year 1856, there was a decided movement of the Mormon Church in Salt Lake City. Utah, to gain converts to the Mormon faith, and in accordance with this decision, after a report of local conditions in Texas to the Mormon Bishops in Salt Lake City, it was then decided to establish a settlement of Mormons in the western part of Bell county, and a company composed of twelve or fifteen Mormon preachers were delegated to begin this colonization scheme to the everlasting glory of Brigham Young and his satelites.

In the early part of September these advance advocates of the Mormon religion reached the frontier town of Belton, which was then composed of a stage station and some ten or twelve stores, of which about half were saloons and gambling houses, and took up their residence temporarily on the banks of Nolan creek just west of where the courthouse now stands, and after resting for a few days, the Elders got down to business and sent out parties of two each into the different settlements of the new county to gain converts to the Morman faith ostensibly, but in fact to get all the likeable young women wherever possible as converts to the faith and later as wives for the glorified church dignitaries in Salt Lake City.

Everything worked nicely for a few weeks with the new settlement, the Elders being away for several days at a time from the local camp, but in the meanwhile a report was circulated among the permanent residents to the effect that the Mormons had been making strong appeals to the wives and daughters of the Gentiles to abandon their homes and take up their residence in Utah, where the true faith abounded.

This latter development failed to meet with the cooperation and hearty approval of the male Gentile element in Belton and surrounding territory, and a committee composed of leading citizens backed up with an assortment of firearms called on the Mormons, telling them that if they wanted to keep their ranks intact and their present good state of health that it was absolutely necessary for them to move elsewhere. After taking one good look into the stern faces of this committee, the Mormons loaded their personal effects into several ox wagons and left Belton, later taking up their encampment at a place on the Lampasas river now known as the McBryde Crossing, five miles west of the present village of Youngsport.

This community was sparsely settled, but several families of pioneers had settled on this part of the river several years earlier, and among these was a family by the name of Howard, who had a grown daughter and two or three boys nearly grown. As before, when the Mormons carne to Belton, everything moved along nicely and the new settlement was accepted at its face value, until Howard noticed that the Elders were paying quite a little attention to his daughter. After making some investigation and finding that the Mormons were trying to induce her to leave home, Howard loaded his shotgun with blue whistlers and called on the Mormon settlement, and in no uncertain terms told the Elders to leave his family out of all their future plans and calculations, and all would be well with them, but failure on their part in complying with all the terms of his demands, that he would kill them all to the last man.

The Mormons personally took him at his word and assured him of their good intentions, but in the meantime they had gotten in the good graces of a settler by the name of LaNier, and it is on this man that the story hinges, for LaNier told the Mormons if they wanted the girl that he could induce her to leave with them, so he called on the girl with this intention in view. The girl evidently told her father of what was on foot, at least he found out LaNier's intentions and told him to leave the premises and to stay away if he placed any value on his life.

Several days after the heated conversation with LaNier, Mr. Howard decided to round up his cattle which were ranging in the old Crossville settlement, and with this intention in view, saddled his horse early one morning, laid his gun across his saddle and left home with the intention of being away the entire day. He rode to where the cattle were ranging and began the round up, when some sixth sense warned him that his presence was needed at home, so acting on this impulse he left the work to be done in the hands of other parties and rode home with all possible speed, and as he came in view of the house, he saw LaNier's horse tied to the fence. Howard dismounted and entered the house from the rear just as LaNier, badly frightened, made a plunge through the front door and tried to mount his horse, when he recieved two loads of blue whistlers in his back, which killed him instantly.

There is no doubt in the minds of fair minded people that LaNier had gotten his just deserts for the despicable part he had played, and a few years earlier, before Bell county had been organized, when each man was his own judge, jury and executioner, nothing would have been done or thought about the killing, but Howard, fearing arrest if the tragedy became known, decided to dispose of the body, and accordingly called on his sons to aid him. They loaded the body across a pack horse, covering it with a tarpaulin and rode toward the west, which was the last ever seen of LaNier.

As people were frequently changing locations and long absences were more frequent than otherwise, nothing was thought of LaNier’s disappearance for several months, until the news leaked out that LaNier had been murdered and a search was instituted for his remains, a party being organized for this purpose, but with no results as far as finding his body was concerned. The searching party did, however, find a place where a huge fire had been kindled at the base of a mountain, which now bears the name of the man who was killed. and a few bones badly burned were found, but it was never definitely proven that they were human bones.

Several months after the searching party was disbanded, Howard was arrested for this murder, and after the usual legal delay was brought to trial in the District Court in Belton, and as the prosecution could not actually prove that a murder had been committed, inasmuch as a dead body had never been produced, Howard came clear and his case went on the criminal docket as the first murder trial ever held in Bell county.

After the murder trial the Mormon settlement finally dwindled to a few members, a few returning to Utah. Some died from disease and the rest remaining at the encampment until one dark night a shotgun roared out of the stygian darkness, and the Mormon encampment was no more.

Nothing remains of this encampment at this date, even its exact location has been forgotten and time has obliterated even the graves of those that died that night seventy-two years ago, and there is not a half dozen people living today that ever knew there was a Mormon settlement on the Lampasas river.

Early History of Camp San Saba

2014-09-07

[From J. Marvin Hunter’s Frontier Times Magazine, March, 1933]

THE ROAD LEADING from Fort Mason, said to have been established in 1850 by direction of Col. Harvey of the Second U. S. Dragoons, and Camp Colorado, on Jim Ned Creek about nine miles east of where Coleman, Texas, now stands which was established by Major Van Dorn of the Second Cavalry in 1856 crossed the San Saba river at a point known as the Hardee of Camp Colorado Crossing. The name Hardee was evidently after William Joseph Hardee, an officer who served with distinction in the Mexican War and who entered the Confederate Army in the Civil War, with the rank of colonel and was promoted to lieutenant general. He was at one time commandant of West Point Military Academy and was also author of Hardee's Tactics, the standard military tactics manual during the Civil War period.

It was at or near this spot that John O. Von Meusebach, the founder of Fredericksburg and commissioner general of the "Adelsverein," met with a large band of Comanche warriors and their chiefs in the early part of 1847. After being in council with them for several days he arranged for another meeting at the next full moon at which time he again met with them at a point evidently several miles below, and made a treaty allowing the Germans to survey and explore the whole San Saba country. The territory was surveyed in 1847 under the supervision of John J. Giddings. This land is part of the Fisher and Miller grant by President Sam Houston to them in 1843; they ceded or sold their rights to the "Adelsverein," or German Immigration Company.

In the early part of the Civil War companies of state troops known variously as "rangers," mounted volunteers, etc., were organized all over the state. The ones in this particular part of the state were a part of Col. J. E. McCord's regiment. One or more of these companies had a camp on the San Saba River about a mile or a mile and a half south and east of the Harden crossing above referred to, near another crossing known as the "Flat Rock"crossing. They were quartered in log cabins and a few tents. It was from this camp of rangers that the town of Camp San Saba took its name. It is said that the first soldiers to occupy the camp were members of Capt.McMillan's company of San Saba and among the members of that company is said to have been W. W. Brooks, Mart Bolt, "Doc" Hansford, the company physician, W. L. Hays, Tom Fry, Dick Nelson, Tom Forker and others. So far as is known to the writer no official records or roll of the above mentioned company exists and the names are given on the hearsay of "old timers." Capt. W. G. O'Brien seems to have succeeded Capt. McMillan as commanding officer of the camp at Camp San Saba and through the courtesy of the Archivist of the Texas State Library at Austin a muster roll of that company is available and is copied below.

Captain W. G. O'Brien's Company, Regiment of Mounted Volunteers, commanded by Colonel J. E. McCord, called into the service of the State of Texas by the Governor under the act of the legislature approved Dec. 21, 1861, from the 30th day of April, 1863, when mustered, to the 31st day of December, 1863, the date of the present muster: W. G. O'Brien, Captain; J. M. Wood, 1st Lt.; T. P. C. Hambin., 2nd Lt.; R.H. Flippen, 2nd, Jr. Lt.; G. B. Cooke. 1st Sergeant; J. R. Phillips, 2nd Sergeant; N. Lawyer, 3rd Sergeant; C. G.Wood, 4th Sergeant; C. Y. Vanderveer 5th Sergeant; J. A. Taylor, First Corporal; G. R. Chapman, Second Corporal; J. Tanner, Third Corporal; W.T. Shugart, Fourth Corporal; Jasper Bradford, First Bugler; John J. Altman, Second Bugler; and R. Caviness, Farrier.

Capt. O'Brein's Company, Enlisted men: Altman, Matt, Altman, Josiah, Barker, M. W., Binion, R. G., Boone. R. J., Begole, A. W., Bradford, John,Brantley, W. W., Caveness, S., Caveness, Wm., Crosby, J., Coots, M. J., Clock, J., Coleman, H., Chapan, J., Clucky, J., Deats, F., Davis, B.F., Emmit, L. L., Farrar, H. G., Farquhar, D. L., Farquhar, T., Gammenthater, G.A, Gardner, E. M., Gambol, G., Gibson, B. M., Hardin, R. W., Hardin, G.W., Howard, G., Hanna, Joe, Hanna, Jack, Hinton, W. D., Hunthall, E. S..Hambrick, B. M., Manbrick, T. F., Hubbert, A. J., Hall, J. A., Haynes, C. B., Jackson, J. W., Kelley, T., Lowe J. B., Lindsey, T. D., Lindsey, W. M., Linn, W. T., Lackey, J., Morriss, L.B., Modgling, E., Mulkey, L. A., Milne, Harvey, McFarland, F. M., Mabry, R.E., McDowel, J., New, W. H., Nobles, N., Nabers, A. W., Norris, J. O., Nix, H., Olney, S., Pope, J. O., Pankey, E.S., Phillips, J. W., Russell, H., Russell. John, Rambolt, L. W., Rambolt, N.,Rambolt, J., Roberts, A. J., Reeves, S. J., Stayton, W. T., Smith, W. A. Shelley, T, H., Shelley, E., Snow, P. G., Shilling, C. C., Turner, T. A., Williams, A. J., Williams, Wm., Williams, J. D. Whitehead, James, Wood, C. P., Wood. Wm., Wood, J., Willis, S., Watson, J. S,. Rank, J. E., Ragsdale, R. A., Wilson, N. D.

James E. Rank, the father of Mason is said to have played a prominent part in the organization of the above company. It is quite likely that there are a few errors in copying these names from the original roll, for instance the one given as G. Gambol is supposed to be Geo. Gamel and the three Rambolts should be Rainbolts. These men were from the counties of McCulloch, Mason, San Saba, Llano, Burnet and possibly one or two from Blanco. A few of them had formerly been soldiers in the U. S. Army. Practically all were well known and respected and have descendants living today. The company's primary purpose seems to have been to guard the frontier against the Indians but most of the above company finally became a part of the Confederate Army and were sent to Harrisburg, Texas. After they left, troops of "Minute Men" were organized for protection against the Indians and lawless element. Two of these were Lieut. Decator Bartons Company and Capt. Dan Wills Company.

It seems pretty well established that there were a few settlers in the vicinity of Camp San Saba before the "rangers" came. Hugh Allen is said to have had a log house there in the 50's as did James A. Williams. These were both on Katemcy Creek. And by the way, the mention of this name brings up questions. Some old people, and at least one old writer calls it Tecumseh Creek, and there is known to have been a Comanche chief by the name of Catumseh. However, the old Fisher and Miller map published in 1855 has it Katemsey's Creek, and the post office on it is Katemcy.

Wm. R. Turner and his family moved to the Hugh Allen place on Feb.12, 1861, according to a member of the family. The Vanderveer family settled about three miles east of Camp San Saba in 1862. W. F. Middleton.Henry Nix, W. A. Pope, a family named Hindslay, and possibly a few others lived in Camp San Saba during the Civil War. A number of families seem to have moved into the county about 1862, there was quite a settlement on Lost Creek a few miles east of Camp San Saba. These early settlers lived in log or picket houses, some with puncheon floors, and some with flagstone floors. Wm. R. Turner mentioned above was the first to build a stonehouse. This residence was quite large, and, having several children, his home must have been the social center of the time. The old home is still standing and is used by Monroe Fleming and his family as their residence. The front has been modernized by Mr Fleming but the back part, the old store house, spring house and barn have not been altered. The flagstone floor of the old Allen cabin can still be seen in the yard.

Dancing must have been the principal social pastime as most all of the "old timers" speak of the many sets they have danced to the fiddling of Van Buren and of Bob Flippen. While there a race track was built west of the camp, and "Shorty" Brown, Paddy Fields and Bob Caveness are mentioned as having played prominent parts in these early horse races. At least one killing is known to have occurred over a horse race on this track and the victim is buried under the old burial oak near the old camp site. There is also several other people buried under the same tree. Bob Caveness seems to have been quite an athlete and it is said that he was never beaten in a broad jump. The only serious contender was an Indian who came within six inches of equaling his mark. As this purports to be a true story the number of feet he is said to have jumped will not be given.

Judge Woodall is said to have taught school in Camp San Saba at a very early day, as did a Miss Moss and Miss Allen.

Camp meetings were held in the early days of Rev. Moorehead, Parson A. J. Potter, Rev. Stewart, Rev. Lyons and others. Probably the most noted of these is Rev. A. J. Potter, the story of whose life is running in the Frontier Times at this writing.

A Masonic lodge was organized at or near Camp San Saba in 1864 thought to have been principally among the members of the "ranger" camp. This lodge later became McCulloch Lodge No. 273 A. F. & A. M., and was moved to Mason, Texas, and the Masonic Lodge at that place still retains the same name and number.

The first known merchant establishment was that of Col. T. A. Burns,established in a picket building in 1866. Col. Burns is, or was a short time ago, hale and hearty at 100 years of age, and now lives at Burkett, Coleman county, Texas. A man named Sanders is said to have purchased the business from Col. Burns and at, or near the same time, a store was opened by a Mr. Ward of San Antonio, and is referred to as "Z Vanressler Ward." He seems to have been quite a character and the mention of his name will bring a smile or grin from anyone who remembers him. The only stone store building was built by Charlie Smith and later sold to the Masonic Lodge.The lodge still uses the second story as a meeting place but the lower story has been vacant for a number of years.

Just after the Civil War quite a number of people moved into the country up and down the river and started cattle ranches. Among these were the Staytons, Watsons, Cavins, Mrs. Eubanks. Popes, Presslars, and Gargers. But most of them were compelled to abandon their holdings on account of the Indians. The Indians are said to have been so bad that they came practically every full moon and raided, stealing horses and cattle. For several years hey raided constantly. They were a very common sight in the late 60's.

The most commonly recounted Indian killings are those of Jim Hudson, who was killed in the Appleton pasture, about two miles west of and a little south of the Otte place, while moving timbers to build cattle pens. Another is that of Smith and Ruff. This occurred when a party from the neighborhood went to where the low water now is—mouth of Hudson Creek—to talk with some other men about a cattle deal of some sort. The party ran into the Indians thinking they were the men they had come to meet before they realized that they were Indians. All made a dash to get away, but in some way the horse of Smith got away from him and he was shot in the back while crossing the river. His body was buried under the old oak tree and a marble slab marks his resting place. It is said that Ruf was also killed at the same time and that the river got on a big rise that night and washed his body a mile or so down the river where it was discovered several days later. His body was buried where it was found, a short distance below the "FlatRock" crossing.

Most of the incidents mentioned in this article are thought to have occurred prior to 1870. The writer will not attempt to treat of the happenings of a later date at this time, other than to say that Camp San Saba was the largest town and principal settlement in McCulloch county until after the organization of the county and establishment of Brady as the county seat in 1876. Not long after this it began to decline. However, it is still "on the map" and there are a number of modern homes there, besides the church, schoolhouse and Masonic Lodge. The post office has been moved over on the highway, a few hundred yards west of the old town. It is well worth one's time to turn off the highway and visit the principal points of interest, which are several artesian wells, the Lowry Bluffs, the old Turner home, Masonic Hall and the old burial oak in the Brooks field, where the "ranger" camp was located. Good fishing may be had in the river nearby, and there is a modern tourist camp and swimming pool on the exact site of the old Hardee crossing.

From a Former Texan - Some Early Kimble County History

2014-08-05

Editor Frontier Times.

Bandera, Texas.

I am an old timer from Texas, and, a few weeks ago a neighbor who recently came here to live, called on me. She learned that I was from Texas, and asked me if I remembered any frontier happenings. I mentioned that I distinctly remembered the killing of Isaac Koontz and a Spears boy by the Indians in the winter of 1876, when I was a small child. She then told me she had the story of the same incident in a Texas magazine of frontier history. After she went home she called me up and read to me over the phone the account of it by John A. Miller, in the issue of Frontier Times for September, 1927.

Well, that brought back a good many memories of my childhood, and things that I had almost forgotten; so the next day the lady brought me an armful of old numbers of Frontier Times that she has kept. I am certainly enjoying them. I am writing a letter which I hope you will print in Frontier Times. I may be able to hear from or of some one I knew, or some of their relatives. I will be glad to have letters from any one who cares to write to me. My name is Lucy Sessom, and my step-father was John W. Miller, an Englishman, who taught the first school in Junction, before it was incorporated. I think there were fourteen or fifteen pupils in the school. The next teacher was a Mr. McArthur, and after him a man named Beatty, who taught one term and later returned to England. Merritt Meeks was my grandfather. His sister, Lucy, married John Butler. I was named after her. My grandmother was Sally Burden. The Meeks family owned a good deal of land, and their slaves stayed on with them after the war. W. A. or Bill Meeks was the first sheriff of Kimble county, as well as I can remember. I still remember hearing it said that he was "the tallest man this side of the North Pole," and that he "stood seven feet in his stockings." He had a son, Joe Meeks, also two daughters, Mrs. Will Robbins and Mrs. W. H. McClintock, both living now, I think, in Rosewell, New Mexico.

My sister, Dora Sessom, and Uren Kirkland were the first couple to be married in Junction. They were married by Dr. Spear. My brother is Bob Sessom. He now lives in Duncan, Arizona. My half-brother, Charlie Miller, lives at Miley, Texas. Ile was inspector for the Northwest Cattle Company for thirty years.

My stepfather first lived on the North Llano, and later moved to Johnson Fork, where he raised crops and hogs. He lived there about twenty years.

I remember Bill and Mack Potter, who lived on the North Llano; John and Sis Butler, who lived on Cypress river in Monett also Pleas Wemley, son of old Man William Wemley, the first man to put in a grist and saw mill in Blanco City. It must have been sixty years ago. I also remember the Patterson family. There were two boys; one was named Cummins or Cummings. If there are any of the Joy family living they will remember me. The children were Lewis, Doe, Helen, Effie, Henry, Pearl and Mandy, who died before I left there.

I often visited in Kerrville and Menardville. I was married in London, Kimble county, to Joe Boyce. We were married by his brother-in-law, Len Lewis. If J. A. Miller has a son, Frank, living he will remember me. I lived for a long time with my aunt, Nan Harris.

There was often great excitement among the scattered settlers, when there was an Indian raid, or outlaws and cattle rustlers sent terror to the hearts of women and children. I well recall how Jesse James looked when he dashed up to my mother's door once on a long-legged sorrel, and ordered her to prepare him a meal in a hurry. He wore a heavy mustache. I know how frightened pioneer children were at the mention of Sam Bass, Ben Thompson, and other outlaws. I can still remember the time when Reuben Boyce escaped from jail, and the names of some of the members of a cattle rustling gang who were caught and sent to prison. Also I recall the time when Tom Doran shot Ed Spears in a fight in Bill Meek's saloon, and how people were worked up over it. This occurred in Junction. I also remember Dick Durkin, Bill Allen and John Potter, who were said to belong to a band of outlaws or rustlers. Another neighbor of ours was named Butler, and we had friends living on the Salines. I would like to hear from any of them, or their children. My name is now Rasmussen. I married Harry Rasmussen, of Denmark, in 1899. He passed away last year.

Mrs. Lucy Rasmussen,

Duncan, Arizona.

Kimble Co. History Tells of Pioneer Struggles - By Coke R. Stevenson, Jr.

2014-06-24

[From J. Marvin Hunter's Frontier Times Magazine, September, 1930]

THE TERRITORY embraced in Kimble County, was formerly a part of Bexar County. Several volumes of the county records were transcribed from the Bexar County Records, and in these early volumes of county records will be found some interesting bits of information in regard to the early land grants and pioneer families of this county. After a new county was created out of that part of Bexar County which lay West of Gillespie County, it was named for George Kimble, one of the heroes of the Alamo. The new county was then attached to Gillespie County for judicial purposes. This was a common fate of many newly created counties. As soon as a new county had enough population to carry on a county government it was separated, however, from the parent county and allowed to begin its own government. This occurred in Kimble County in 1876. It was organized in that year and set up its county government. Sutton County was then attached to Kimble County for judicial purposes and continued to be so attached until it had enough people to set up its government in 1889. The first county officers elected in Kimble County were Wm. Potter, County Judge, Dr. E. K. Kountz, County Clerk, Frank Latta, Sheriff, N. Q. Patterson, Treasurer, W. F. Gilleland, Assessor, and M . J. Denman, Surveyor. The commissioners were J. R. Steffy for Junction City, Felix Burton, Bear Creek, Henry Pearl, Saline, and Noah Knox, Devil's River.

On December 24th, 1876, the Indians made their last serious raid on the newly organized county. The principal settlement in the county at this time seems to have been around the mouth of Johnson Fork. Dan Baker had a store and it was the only store in the county. Bill Estes hauled his goods for him from San Antonio. John A. Miller, Jerry Roberts, J. A. Browning and others lived in that settlement. Dr. E. K. Kountz lived at that time on South Llano about where the J. C. Konntz residence stands today. He was the father of Isaac Kountz, and when the Indians made their raid on this occasion, they killed Isaac Kountz and a son of Dr. Spears, who lived on North Llano about two miles above where the Courthouse in Junction now stands.

When the news reached the Johnson Fork settlement that the Indians had killed these boys, four men from that settlement, to-wit: John A. Miller, Jerry Roberts, Dan Baker and Bill Estes immediately started for the scene of the trouble. When they reached the mesquite flat where Junction now stands, they met Dr. Kountz, N. Q . Patterson and Patterson 's nephew. These repaired to the Spears house, where the Spears boy had been killed. They then started up Bear Creek to notify the Rangers, who were camped there. On the way they met Billie Waits, Billie Gilleland and a man named Lemons. Lemons said the rangers had already been notified, and that the Indians had turned back east, and that Lieutenant Moore and six men from the Rangers had started in pursuit. Those named made ten men in the citizens party who joined in pursuit of the Indians, but after an exciting chase, which lasted for several days, the Indians escaped.

No further raids were made by the Indians until six months later and this was not as serious as the one mentioned. The county gradually began to develop. At first the county seat was known as Kimbleville, which was located about one and one-half miles north-east from Junction, and in what is now known as the old Will Taylor pasture. District Court was held at this place one or two sessions, for the most part under liveoak trees, and the county seat was then moved to the new town of Junction City, which is now Junction. In 1872 William McLane purchased the tract of land upon which Junction now stands. There is no official record of the exact date upon which he laid out the town, but it was composed of 160 acres of land, and the earliest deeds to lots were in 1878. All of the even numbered lots in the town were given by McLane to Kimble County, and in 1883 he sold all of the odd numbered lots to a firm composed of W. A. Williamson, Jr. H. H. Allen and G. W. Ragsdill.

The court house in Junction burned April 22, 1584, and all or the county records were totally destroyed. This accounts for a lack of detail as to the early history of the town. Tradition, however, furnishes certain information that official records do not. The first dwelling houses in Junction were built by N. Q. Patterson and Frank Latta, both of whom, as we have seen, were members of the first official family. Dr. Kountz, the father of Isaac Kountz who was killed by the Indians, and the first County Clerk of the county, also owned the first drugstore in the town. It was located near the present site of the Hodges Hotel. The first school house was located North of the present jail house. Frank Latta, first sheriff of the county, was also the first school master. The second school master was Cleo, E . Stuart, from Austin. Later Mr Stuart became County Judge.

One of the first buildings in any new town in those days was a saloon, and Junction was no exception. The old "OO" Saloon was located on the west side of the square, where Frank L. Wilson's office now stands characterized the Junction City of those days. Eleven men are known to have been killed, either in its saloons or in the streets nearby.

During this time the northeast corner of the county was beginning to have inhabitants. In 1882 Ed and Tom Stevenson opened a store where London now stands and named the town London. R. M. Stevenson joined them in the mercentile business about 1884. About this time Jasper Lewis opened a blacksmith shop in the vicinity, and in June, 1885, Ed Stevenson married the daughter of Jasper Lewis. Among the other settlers around London at that time besides those mentioned, were Len Lewis, E . W. Brewer, J. D. Maurice, Fred Wahrmunud, L. M . Walton and the Boyce Brothers. In 1887 London had two stores, a post office, blacksmith shop, school house, cotton gin and six or seven homes.

Junction at first had a community church on what is now known as the Bissett lot and east of the present Church of Christ. Rev. J. S. Durst the first pastor of this new church. The First Methodist Church was established about 1885, and was located on the lot just south of where the present Baptist church now stands.

Among the earliest business men in Junction was S. S. Jobes. He owned a business that consisted of groceries, feed, a wagon yard, camp house, and a blacksmith shop. He occupied a site on the east side of the courthouse square. It is reported that he traded two pounds of tobacco for the ground upon which he erected his buildings and waggon yard. His son, Jack Jobes, was the first boy born in Junction. He was born in 1877. Alma Smith was the first girl born in Junction. The first marriage license was issued to Sam Smith and Miss Alice Graham.

Among the eariest settlers in Kimble County was Captain Creed Taylor, who fought in the Mexican Revolution. He lived on James River, and the walls of the rock house which he erected are still standing, and the stone over the door bears the dale 1872. This was a very pretentious house for this early period.

Two pioneers celebrated their golden wedding anniversaries in 1928. These were Mr. and Mrs. N. C. Patterson. Mrs. Patterson is a daughter of Dr. E. K. Kountz, and she and Mr. Patterson were married in Junction in 1878. The year 1878 also witnessed the passing of our oldest settlers, Mr. B. C. Dragoo, who was 94 years of age at time of his death, and Mr. S. H. McCaleb, who was for many years one of our most prominent citizens. Mrs. E. K. Kountz was the first postmistress, and her son-in-law, N. C. Patterson, after serving four years as a mail carrier between Junction and Ft . MeKavett, became postmaster and served in that capacity for eleven years.

The first newspaper in Junetion City was the West Texas. It was started in 1882 in the back of the Junction City Post Office. The paper was published by J. F. Lewis.

The second newspaper was called "The Junction City Clipper," which was succeeded by "The Kimble County Citizen," which in turn gave way to the present high-class newspaper known as "The Junction Eagle," J. M . Bourland was one of the editors of The Junction City Clipper." H. L. Winslett and C. M. Nichols were the principal editors of the "Kimble County Citizen," during its long period of existence.

The Junction Eagle has had a number of editors since its organization. J. Marvin Hunter established the first newspaper in London. It was called the Kimble County Crony . This paper was later moved to Junction and was edited by Riddick and Roberts.

J. D. Motley established an independent newspaper in Junction called the Junction Light, and ran it for several years until it was consolidated in 1919 with the Kimble County Citizen to make the Junction Eagle, and Mr. Motley became the first editor of the Junction Eagle.

One of the oldest businesses in the county was the mercantile firm of H. H. Allen & Co. This was established in 1878, and this firm built the two story rock building now occupied by Wahl Bros. & Schraub. It was at that time the finest building in Junction and remained so for many years. Two of the members of this firm were W. A . Williamson and H. H. Allen, who were especially prominent in the early history of Junction. Judge Williamson was one of the ablest lawyers in west Texas, was a member of the Legislature from this district, and he and his partners, as above mentioned, were the purchasers and developers of the town site.

In 1882 the firm of H. Schmelter & Co. began business on the corner where McInnis Drug Store now stands, and about that time E. Holekamp opened a store where Schreiner-Hodges Company have their splendid rock building.

One of the significant factors in the business life of the town in that period was the formation of the Kimble County Alliance, which was a cooperative store owned by a number of the leading ranchmen of the county. It followed Schmelter & Co. and did business on the same corner for a number of years. This was perhaps, the earliest cooperative move in the county among the ranchmen for what they considered to be of common benefit.

G. K. Gordon & Co. succeeded H. H. Allen & Co. and did a flourishing business in the rock store building.

In 1898, Alex J. Hamer established a store in what then was a mesquite flat and considerably west of the business portion of the town. Twenty years later he built the rock building in which Gann Grocery Company is now domiciled.

J. A. Heyman came to town in the nineties and eventually succeeded to a large portion of the drug store in the year 1905.

John M. Hankins, who has, perhaps the most prominent corner in the town, started his drug business in 1907. The first business on his corner was an old raw-hide lumber meat market. This was followed by the Harrison & Martin saloon and then by the Hankins Drug Co., and upstairs was the Hankins-Riley Dance hall and picture show. The first picture show was opened in the year 1911 in the old rock store building by Coke R. Stevenson and W. P. Riley.

In 1904, Dr. J. W. Burt, who for many years was one of Junction's leading doctors, erected the two story stone building which is now known as the Masonic Hall.

In 1906 the first bank was organized in Kimble County. This was the First State Bank of Junction. It began business on June 7, 1906, and in the fall of that year erected the stone building on the corner, which was demolished last year to make room for the present elegant bank building of the Junction State Bank. The Kimble County State Bank began business September 1, 1906. It was quartered in the lower story of the Masonic Building.

On August 17, 1908, these two banks consolidated to form the Junction State Bank. In May 1916, the First National Bank was organized and continued a successful business until Oct. 1st, 1927, when it was also consolidated with the Junction State Bank.

The Junction Hardware Co. one of Kimble County 's largest and most successful businesses, was organized in 1911, and the present store building occupied by this company was erected in 1913.

Philip Joseph came to town in 1906 and was at first a peddler, and later opened a small dry goods store in town and now has one of the most modern dry goods stores to he found in any town of this size.

Mr. Holekamp's store was succeeded by the Charles Schreiner Company, and this in turn became the Schreiner Hodges Co., on January 1, 1907. It has continued to grow until it has become the trading center for a large portion of Kimble County.

Junction had its first telephone system in 1905, and Mr. T. B. Phillips moved from his ranch to town and became a telephone man. He built up the system until it extended to practically every residence and to most of the ranches of the county. He then sold the system, but has continued to own and acquire town property until today he is the largest property owner in our city.

The first electric lights came in 1917, and was shortly afterwards acquired by the Llano River Irrigation & Milling Co., one of Junction's oldest Corporations. It was managed by Mr. C. W. Atchison, who for seventeen years was Junction's postmaster. This company also had the first water works system in the town and operated it for many years until 1928, when the City purchased the whole system and largely extended and modernized it.

Junction became incorporated as a city in September, 1927, and Mr. E. Holekamp was elected first mayor of Junction. The first sewer system in the town was provided by the city government in 1929.

Other towns have been established in the county from time to time. Roosevelt beginning in the year 1900.

It has prospered and grown considerably. The first merchant in that town was W. B. Waggoner, but the present buildings were mostly erected by John T. Wilson about 1916.

Noxville was first established on Devil's River, near the pioneer ranch home of J. H. Parker. It was later moved to James River near the early home of Creed Taylor.

Telegraph, on South Llano, was established about 1895, and was the center of some of early famous ranches, such as the R. P. Dupuy Ranch on Klak, the O. B. Fleming Ranch, the T. C. Taylor Ranch, the Peter Paterson Ranch, the W. W. Allen Ranch, and the S. H. Guthrie Ranch. Others in this vicinity who came early and have stayed a long time were Mack Huffman, Jinks Coleman, Felix Watson, J. S. Fleming, S. A. Griffith, J. W. Bartley, Theo Hunger and Andrew Paterson.

Segovia, Cleo and Yates are all of later origin, but they represent sturdy and well-developed communities of thrifty and contented people.

Near Cleo is the present ranch home of O. D. Nance. This was originally named "Brambletye" and the cut stone building was erected in the year 1898. William Hall was a member of the House of Lords in England before he came to this country. His plans provided for Brambletye to be an old world castle, surrounded by stone walls 12 feet high and four towers at the corners, each 14 feet square and 72 feet high. Only one of these was started and built about 15 feet high when Mr. Hall died and his plans were never completed.

For a little over half a century Junction has nestled in the valley of the beautiful Llano River, surrounded by the rugged mountains that make it a picturesque little town. It now has many conveniences, such as electric lights, water, sewerage, street lights, and other things that are beneficial. It has modern business houses that are not surpassable by any other small town. The new court house bieing an added beauty. Junction has highways to all the county seats adjacent to it, which gives access to all the counties around. Its parks, tourist camps and golf course are to be mentioned as assets.

Louis Schmidt of Mason County, Texas - J. Marvin Hunter

2014-06-17

From J. Marvin Hunter's Frontier Times Magazine, February, 1929]

In 1872 a sixteen-year-old lad by the name of Louis Schmidt drifted into Mason. He boarded with the sheriff, acted as jailor and did other odd jobs, working most of the time in a blacksmith shop owned by Jim Finney, this blacksmith shop being where Ed Smith's residence now stands, and just across the street from the Doole store. About that time a fellow by the name of Tom Faulkner killed a man in Loyal Valley, shooting the man at night through the cracks in his house. Faulkner was arrested and put in the old jail, and as a double precaution the prisoner was heavily shackled. One night the jailor took the prisoner his supper, but just prior to this some one had delivered a file to the prisoner, and when the jailor opened the door the prisoner grabbed him and a big scuffle ensued. This desperate man was too much for the mere boy and he soon got away, still dragging the chain on his legs. The sheriff lived but a short distance from the jail, and he was quickly warned, and caught the prisoner before he got very far. However, some days later some of the prisoner's friends took crowbars and sledgehammers, broke a hole in the jail and this time the prisoner made good his escape, and was never heard of again.

This man Louis Schmidt is now the dean of Mason merchants, having been continuously in business forty-three years. In 1875 young Schmidt went to work in Charlie Wahrmund's blacksmith shop in Koocksville. After a few months' employment there he drifted to a few other places, finally landing at Ben Ficklin. This place was about three miles south of Fort Concho, and was then a place of considerable importance, San Angelo not being in existence at that time. Ben Ficklin was the main division on the El Paso and San Antonio stage line. At this division they kept a herd of wild Spanish mules, a number of coaches, and maintained a considerable blacksmith shop in which repair work was done and the mules kept shod. Schmidt got the contract for doing the mule shoeing and blacksmithing for the Fort Concho-San Antonio end of the mail line, or rather for the Ben Ficklin-San Antonio end. The blacksmithing he could attend to without any help, or trouble, but when it came to shoeing the wild mules it was different. To be shod they had to be roped, thrown down and hog-tied. Later he went with the sub-contractor under Ficklin on the line from Fort Concho to El Paso. In this new position it was necessary to make frequent trips along the line from Fort Concho to El Paso. In fact there wasn't any El Paso at that time, the name of the place being Franklin. With the exception of Fort Stockton and Fort Davis and the few stage stands along the way, there wasn't a house between Fort Concho and El Paso. It was buffalo, antelope, Indians, isolation and desert. Water was the scarcest article in that region at that time, and the stage line had to go by a rather indirect route for a distance of more than 500 miles in order to have water stations. In 1878 Mr. Schmidt got enough of that wild west business, returned to civilization, and bought the blacksmith shop at Koocksville. Koocksville, just one mile west of Mason, was on quite a boom at that time. William Koock was doing a big mercantile business there in a picket house. Never before, never since and never again will there be as much gold in the country as there was in Koocksville alone from 1876 to about 1888. Koock's store was the cattlemen's headquarters for this section of the country. Here and to Rank's store, the cattlemen came for their supplies. Principal among the early buyers were such men as Col. Ike Pryor, Doe Burnett, and Major Smith, and others.

The Story of the Old French Colony

2014-06-16

By Louise Boyer, in Texas History Teachers' Bulletin, October 22, 1924

[From J. Marvin Hunter's Frontier Times Magazine, October, 1935]

WHILE THE PRINCIPAL events connected with the early colonization and settlement of Dallas have been recorded in the various histories, yet there are some which are more clearly recorded in the hearts of the citizens. Of these, I would mention "The Story of the Old French Colony." This is the history of "La Reunion," dream city of early Texas, and of the little band of French, Belgian and Swiss idealists, who sought Utopia on the banks of the Trinity.

No incident in the history of Dallas was so great a factor in the molding of all Texas, as was the coming of the early French colonists. No bit of Dallas history carries a more historical, courageous, self-sacrificing, humane or sweeter narrative than that of these brave, trusting, God-fearing, innocent and unassuming people.

These were professional, cultured and educated people of the very highest type. They were gifted in their line of art, some being graduates. Musicians, artists, authors, artisans, tradesmen, and men of every walk of life came until the settlement numbered about 500 souls. There were scarcely a dozen farmers.

During the nineteenth century, the social science of Fourier was attracting the attention of the intellectual young men of Europe and America. Dissatisfied with the atmosphere of war, which had hung over France for many years, Victor Considerant, engineer and adventurer, longed to put into practice the communistic formulas of his master, Fourier. Later, he sailed to the United States in search of a location for his "dream colony. "

Considerant finally decided on 12,000 acres in Dallas county, west of the Trinity. Upon his return to Brussels he published a book "Au Texas. " The Franco-American Colonization, with offices in Paris, Brussels and Geneva, was organized for the purpose of bringing emigrants to America. Thus, led by Considerant, these brave adventurers left the splendors of home, with high hopes, to seek their fortunes in America, where they might live according to their own Ideas.

Among the first band of colonists to arrive were those who sailed from Antwerp in the ship Uriel, one of the four sister ships built for trade between Antwerp and New Orleans. From New Orleans they sailed to Galveston, up the bayou to Houston, intending to come to Dallas by boat, up the Trinity; but finding the river dry, they purchased ox-carts to haul tools and luggage, and came overland.

The men walked to the site selected for the colony. Some of the women also walked, Mrs. Santerree carrying a two-year-old child on her back. Mrs. Cesarine Redmond, who came with her parents when only a girl, vividly recalls the frightful overland journey to Dallas County. The plodding oxen, perspiring men, patient women, wailing children and stifling dust all give us an idea of the hardships endured. On the other hand, I have often heard John B. Louckx, one of the original colonists, speak of the beautiful blue skies, the delightful boat trip and the fragrant oleander and jasmine odor mingling with the songs of the birds, as if to welcome them. He marveled at the beauties of Galveston and Houston.

It took the colonists, according to Mr. Louckx, twenty-six days to come from Houston to the site selected, where they arrived April 26, 1855. They called the settlement "Reunion," at their joy at being reunited in the new land. The town founded was near what is now Comet City, about two miles northwest of Oak Cliff.

Soon houses of stone were erected and the land was cleared for cultivation. A community store and a community restaurant were opened and a school started. The settlers brought with them implements and machinery for spinning and weaving, the tools of various handicrafts, and they stocked the land with cattle, horses, chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys. They provided everything in fact, to make a happy and self-supporting community.

It was not long before the colonists put the various instruments to work. Soon they were singing a "song of thrift and honest labor, mingled with lofty ideals." What a beautiful picture for an artist's brush or the tongue of the poet. I can see them now, as Mr. Louckx described them to me. They were a bewildered, quaint and oddly dressed group, yet with faces overjoyed with the wonderful prospects and natural scenery.

There are illustrations of the "President's House" and "Community Store” from original sketches made at French town by a member of Frank Reagaugh's (famous Texas painter) sketching party before the buildings were in ruins. The President's house was of quaint architecture, built of logs and rawhide lumber. Upon the interior and the exterior, a most wonderful wash had been applied, which withstood deterioration and Texas weather until the walls were destroyed. The house contained a snow-white mantel carved by hand from a lime rock; also a piano, the first ever brought to Dallas county, property of A. Bureau, a trained musisian, who had been director of a music theater in Paris. There were a number of fine musical composers of note. (One of Bureau's pieces is in the music book used in our public schools.) The President's house was the residence of Victor Considerant, Prosper Cantegral, and Allyre Bureau, in turn, as they directed the destinies of this remarkable settlement.

A short distance from this structure was the old co-operative storehouse. Many of the old stone and concrete houses to be seen in Dallas until recently were built by the colonists.

The colonists enjoyed many dances, with songs and merry-making. I was told of a Fourth of July celebration in 1856, when the colonists sang the "Marseillaise," led by M. Vreidrag. Mr. Allen, an American, made an address. Many Dallas citizens were present. There was a grand ball that night and refreshments. One man owned an organ. Others brought flutes and violins. Abel Daeily, a member of the singing society, played the flute. The singing society, which afforded the colonists great pleasure, used the method of figures for notes, as prescribed by Cheve of Paris.

Within three years of its beginning, "La Reunion" was a dream of the past. Considerant was among the first to leave. Many disappointed colonists returned to Europe, but some remained in the settlement, while others moved to other states.

Many of the colonists gained national reputations, as physicians, geologists, musicians, authors, architects, botanists, and engineers. Those who remained held prominent positions in the growth of Dallas and her government. They served as Mayor (Ben Long), United States Commissioner, alderman, school directors, firemen, architects (Vreidag, who submitted plans for a Dallas courthouse.)

It was during the administration of John Louckx as alderman and member of the school hoard, that an appropriation of $100,000 for the inauguration of a public school system was made. With this sum four sites and four buildings were procured. Many of the colonists were early school and music teachers. Dr. Savardan was the best doctor in this part of the country, and author of numerous fine works. Mrs. Vigoureaux was a musician, artist, and writer. Emile Demond, scientific farmer, who had great faith in the land, told the colonists that, if they would only hold on to the land, the rocks under them would make their descendants rich. This was correct. The cement companies have already realized fortunes out of these same rocks, and there is still more to be made. Julian Revercohn, for whom one of our public parks has been named, was a botanist of international reputation, made a large collection of Texas plants, which is now in the Shaw Garden of Mt. Louis. Some plants have been named for him by Asa Gray, American botanist, thus perpetuating his name. Francois Cantegral, for whom a Dallas street. was named, was the author of many fine books. Enginard was an engineer of note and colonist of varied accomplishments. Francis Sauters knew more of agriculture than anyone in the colony. Ben Long served as United States Commissioner, mayor and deputy sheriff. Athanase Cretien was a collar maker in France but could work in steel and wood. He made wheels on which the women spun flax brought by them from France, also made spinning wheels for Americans. John B. Louckx, Charles Capy and Mrs. Cesarine Remond were among the last survivors of the colony.

Other colonists were: A. J. Jouffes, Jarob Nussbaumer, Henry Boll, Alfred and William Van Grinderbeck, Goudstill, Dr. Desmet P. Prishot, Alfred Guilliee, Coiret, Julius Royer, John Moulaud, Dominique Boulet, Julian Thevenet, Ferdinand Michell, August Guillot, Dr. Wilmet, Van Derbosh.

Want of food, not courage, was responsible for the failure of the French colony. Had Considerant purchased fertile land instead of limestone, and brought farmers rather than artists, the result might have been different. Being fine artists, the colonists taught the Americans many trades, making them skilled workmen. Much of the culture was absorbed by the Americans and proved to be of much value to the citizens of Dallas and Texas.

(EDITOR'S NOTE—We have often wondered what became of the remnant of these French colonists, but recently we came into possession of Olmsted's "A Journey Through Texas" published in 1857, and on page 284 of that very interesting book we find this paragraph: "At the head of the Sabinal river are a number of non slaveholding farmers, from northern states, engaged in sheep and cattle raising, settled together upon a rich and sheltered tract of pasture. To the same place, if I am correctly informed, Victor Considerant has brought the remnant of his communist colony. His first position was a very ill-chosen one, upon Trinity river, in Dallas county, amid a population of planters, who looked with extreme coldness and jealousy upon such an incursion as that of a thousand Preuch "agrarians," all and, perforce, free-labor men. The experiment appears to have been a brief one. The colony, which arrived in the winter of 1854-5, was already, at the end of one season, shattered and dispersed. A few remained upon the domain of the association, with some separate organization; it few were faithful to Considerant, and have followed him to this new and more hopeful position, while the great body scattered to try their fortunes over the state. The more intimate reasons and circumstances of the failure are not yet public. An application for the incorporation of M. Considerant's colony has failed in the State Senate, at the extra session of 1856.")

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Frio County History - Mrs. W. A. Roberts

2014-06-02

We offer first, an introduction to the author, Mrs. W. A. Roberts, followed by her actual account of very early days in Frio County, TX.

[From J. Marvin Hunter's Frontier Times Magazine, June, 1936]

In this number of Frontier Times appears a well written history of Frio county, by the pen of Mrs. W. A. Roberts, which our readers will find interesting. For more than forty years Mrs. Roberts has been postmaster at Frio Town, and is the present owner of the old Frio Town county court house, which she is thinking of converting into a museum. The following sketch of Mrs. Roberts, written by Edward Blackaller, appeared in a recent issue of the Pearsall Leader:

"Mrs. W. A. Roberts was born August 24, 1869, on La Parita Creek near Pleasanton. She later moved to La Salle county, and when she was four years old, her parents moved to Frio Town.

"She started to school when she was four and one-half years old and continued her education until she graduated from the public school. She then attended Frio Academy, which occupied the upper rooms of the court house, still standing, and was presided over by Mr. and Mrs. Hendricks. Some of the subjects taught were astronomy, geology, and higher mathematics. She later attended the Methodist College at Waco.

"October 19, 1892, she was married to W. A. Roberts. After their marriage they lived in Pearsall at the Berry house, where they stayed six months. She bought the store in the old court house from Yancey Kilgore. After leaving Pearsall, she moved to Frio Town and has made it her home ever since. From that time until now she has operated a store and post office in the court house. One son, who lives near Frio Town on Daring this time, in 1893, Mrs. Roberts has the ranch of his grandfather, W. J. Slaughter.

"Mrs. Roberts has traveled extensively in the United States, especially in the western states. She has also made several trips to Mexico.

"Mrs Roberts is an interesting person to talk to. She remembers local historical events, including Indian raids and people with uncanny accuracy. Mrs. Roberts remembers having attended a dance at Frio Town at which O. Henry, the short story writer, was present. She is sincere in her convictions, and is well informed on every day events. Her loyalty to her friends is a strong characteristic."

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Frio County Has a Colorful History

By Mrs. W. A. Roberts

MORE THAN TWO centuries have passed since the Spaniards and French explored our country and blazed the trail from the Rio Grande at San Juan Bautista below Eagle Pass to San Antonio, thence northwest [northeast] to Nacogdoches, San Augustine and Louisiana. According to tradition and history this road was first traveled by St. Denis in the year of 1714, and became very important. It was the original and most used route in the building of the missions at San Antonio. This trail — the historic Presidio Road—traverses the northwest corner of Frio county, created in 1858 with the town of Frio as the county seat .

The county comprising some 1036 square miles, and embracing various fertile soils, was then under the jurisdiction of Bexar county. Also at one time it, was attached to Medina and later to Atascosa counties. The name was derived from the Frio (cold) river, which winds its way through the rich land.

On June 24, 1871, the legislature ordered that B . A. Sheidley, B. M. Daugherty and John B. McMahon appoint justices of the peace, and an election was called for July 17-20. W. C. Daughtrty was then elected district clerk and E. C . Woodridge, sheriff. At their first meeting, Aug . 8, 1871, A . L. Oden was appointed to lay off the town of Frio, in Frio county. The sale of lots was advertised in the San Antonio Express, to take place Oct. 3, 1871. The town was founded on the Frio river, just below the Presidio Crossing, a beautiful spot. The original crossing is still used, being maintained by the ranch people of the vicinity.

Here, too, is handed down by tradition that Santa Anna, with his army, spent some time in resting before his final march to the Alamo. Also a story is told of a battle in Elm Valley, nearby, where many years ago gun barrels were found. In 1900, a Mexican unearthed a gun and pistol with flintlocks, a sword hilt, decayed bones and bits of military uniform. The sword hilt bore insignia of Spanish or Mexican origin.

Later in 1836, Santa Anna with his troops entered Texas by way of the Presidio at San Juan Bautista; also, when General Woll invaded Texas in 1842, he entered and departed by way of Presidia at this point; then again General Ugalde (Uvalde) with several hundred troops crossed the Rio Grande into Texas at the same place to chastise a band of Indians, and a battle was fought somewhere near this vicinity. It is possible this forgotten battle field could be traced to any one of these events. Many fights occurred which were not chronicled in history.

The Yo lo Digo Creeks tributaries of the Leona river, it is said, received their name from the following incident: Mexican troops were camped near Elm Creek. Sentinels were stationed on the highest hill near where these creeks have their source. For some reason the sentinels failed to detect the approaching enemy. As the sleeping soldiers were charged, too late the warning was given. Someone asked, "Who said s?" Another replied, 'Yo lo digo. " (I say it.) Berry Creek, another tributary of the Leona, was named for Tillman Berry, father of J. E. (Jim) Berry. "Los Burros" or Jack Creek received its name from a band of wild "burros," that ranged along the creek. Also at an early day, Frio county had great numbers of wild horses, as well as Mexican or long horned cattle. There are numerous legends of buried treasure, still unfound.

The first post office was established in the new town with the name of Frio City. L. J. W. Edwards, the first merchant was also the first postmaster. His successors were L. S. White, T. H. Rogers, J. I. Barnes, W. Y. Kilgore and the present postmaster, Mrs. Artie C. Roberts, whose commission is dated June 6, 1893. First mail was carried by W. C. Randle on horseback from Benton City. Later a contract was awarded to Lee McCaughan to carry it from San Antonio by stage.

November 28, 1871, the county court ordered that W. C. Daugherty receive bids on a 20x40-foot "California" house, with a 10-foot partition, this to be used as a court house. The contract was awarded to L. J. W. Edwards. In January, 1872, this structure was built out of lumber cut from cypress trees that grew along the Frio river and was roofed with shingles made near by. The lumber, bought of John Leakey, was trekked by ox wagon some eighty-five miles. Mr. Leakey owned a sawmill where the town of Leakey now stands. Later E. J. Emsley was employed to "whitewash" the court house inside and out for the sum of $20.00 in coin.

In 1877, that building was destroyed by fire, and in 1878 was replaced by a two-story edifice of native stone architecturally beautiful in its simplicity. The stairway with its gracefully curved railing of walnut is greatly admired to this day. The contractor's bid on this building was not sufficient to meet his obligation. W. J. Slaughter, one of his bondsmen, assumed full charge, completing the building at his own expense.

The first jail of stone was built by Dempsey Forrest in 1872. Before completed, it was voted that the upper story be built of stone instead of wood as was originally planned. This was to be used as a jury room. The walls of the building are still standing. Many notorious characters of early days were locked within its walls, among theta Sam Bass, Jesse and Frank James, these not for criminal but for minor offenses.

In 1872, roads were marked out from Frio City to various points. A crossing made on the southwest bank of the Frio river, intersecting the street opposite the courthouse square, was known as the San. Antonio Crossing.

The first grave in the Frio City cemetery was that of Calvin Massey, killed by Indians; the second, of Wesley Hiler, age seventeen, son of W. S. Hiler, killed by a horse. A number of Indian victims are buried therein, their graves unmarked and most of them forgotten.

In the spring of 1873, Mrs. Ed Massey saw the Indians kill her father-in-law, Calvin Massey. Unaided, with her three small children, she managed under cover of the Frio river bank to reach the town in safety. The Indians, forty-five in number, were followed but made good their escape.

In the fall of 1876, an Indian raid, carrying devastation and great loss of life, occurred. At break of day, Billie Allen and Jim Berry were holding a herd of cattle near the Indian Crossing on the Frio river just above the mouth of Elm Creek. Jim Berry, before seeing them, rode within twenty-five yards of sixteen Indians, lined abreast. On sight, he turned, making his way quickly to the Live Oak motte nearby. (Jim Berry did not count the Indians! Another man did.)

For some unaccountable reason, the Indians did not molest the men, but turning, went on up the creek to W. J. Slaughter's sheep camp where they killed William Rittberg, the foreman, and four Mexican herders. Going on to the Leona valley that same day, they killed Mr. Butler and Nick Brian who were employed by Mont Woodward, W. J. and C. H. Slaughter. In fact, in 1876 the Indian raids were so frequent that the citizens felt their inability to cope with them and called on the State for Ranger protection.

Major John B. Jones marched his escort company to Frio county. About December 15, 1876, Company "A" with Neal Coldwell as captain, made camp on Elm Creek, three miles southwest of Frio City; hence, the historical "Ranger Camp" whose site was on the south bank of Elm Creek in a fine grove of elm and oak. A short distance from the camp was a beautiful level prairie known as "Soldier's Prairie," on which the Rangers made a race track where they exercised their horses and where they whiled away many pleasant hours. Capt. J. B. Gillett, now the only known survivor of this company, is authority for the above.

The last raid in the early spring of 1877 was made on the Caven Woodward and Louis Oge ranch. Fifty head of horses were being driven away. A party of men were in pursuit. The Rangers were notified, and were also in close pursuit. The Indians realizing their inability to escape, left the horses and rode rapidly away. No lives were lost in this encounter.

More than one time the settlers were forced to bring their families into Frio City for protection, finding refuge in the court house and in the homes of friends. In 1878, a lone Indian slipped into the Mexican section of the town. Sheriff J. C. B. Harkness, with a number of citizens rushed to the scene. During the excitement over the accidental discharge of the sheriff's gun, which caused the loss of one of his toes, the Indian quietly disappeared. Thus the fear of the savage Indians passed almost as quietly and peacefully as did the lone Indian.

Among those who preached the gospel to the early settlers were the Reverend William Monk, John W. DeVilbiss, W. C. Newton and the well known fighting preacher, A. J. Potter. Also, later, D. Johnson, J. M. Neatherlin and J. C. Russell. Early in Jane, 1880, seven men journeyed on horseback to Frio City and in the courthouse, organized the Rio Grande Baptist Association. E. A. Briggs of Benton City was chosen moderator and C. B. Hukill of Black Creek, clerk. The fiftieth anniversary of this organization was celebrated June 5-6, 1930, in the old courthouse and in the grove adjacent.

Those who gave aid to the sick and injured were Dr. E. W. Earnest, Pr. Amos Graves and the much-loved little woman, Mrs. Minerva Slaughter, wife of Benjamin Slaughter. Her name was a household word and her hand soothed many a fevered brow.

Schools were not neglected. Very early the following school directors were appointed for the different school districts: S. O. Speed, J. G. Woodward, W. S. Hiler, R. B. Whitter, Alvin Hotrey, J. W. Craig, Geo. Brown, P. E. Wilson, R. S. Ragsdale, John Walden , Joe Adams, J. W. Jones, J. E. Roberts, Silas Hay and Andrew Everett.

The first school was taught by J. M. Ellege. Other early teachers were Mr. and Mrs. Kingsbury, Miss Mary McGee, Dan T. Price and Mrs. A. E. Coates. Later Frio Academy was founded with B. C. Hendrick as principal and Mrs. Hendrick, assistant.

Tillman Berry came to Frio county in 1858. Dick Thompson, B. L. Crouch, Louis Oge, Mont and Caven Woodward, H. M. Daugherty, W. S. Hiler and many others were here at an early date.

During the trail driving days vast herds of cattle were sent out of Frio county by such cattlemen as Captain B. L. Crouch, Caven Woodward, Louis Oge, J. H. Blackaller, W. J. and C. H. Slaughter and others. Driven by st.ch cowboys as J. J. Roberts, M. Taylor, J. H. Loxton, J. H. Cook, B. I. Gilman, J. J. Little, Billie Henson, W. A. Roberts and others.

Various symbols, letters, figures and combinations of these made the brands of the cattlemen. The "Heart' ' brand of Tillman Berry, "T Diamond' of W. J. Slaughter, ZH of W. S. Hiler, OL of Caven Woodward were among the first placed on record and are still used by the descendants of these early citizens. Other ranch brands were UL bar, and UL of J. H. Blackaller and 2A of J. E. Roberts. Trail or road brands were placed on all cattle sent up the "trail"—that of W. J. Slaughter "Diamond" and 7P, and of B. L. Crouch a bar from shoulder to flank on both sides of the animal, of Caven Woodward Y at the point of the shoulder and Lazy Y on the loin, and Jo of J. H. Blackaller.

The early settlers were not without public enterprise. Building material had to be trekked many miles; therefore soon there were established a shingle mill, brick factory and lime kiln, thereby utilizing the natural resources of the country .

During the interim of 1858 to 1871 when Frio county was formally organized, Indians made numerous raids. Early one morning in the spring of 1860, Leonard Eastwood, John Speers, and R. A. Sanders rode off to their work. Mr. Eastwood and Mr. Sanders were killed by a raiding band of Indian; Mr. Speers, though wounded, succeeded in reaching the home of Levi English, near a place still known as the English Crossing on the Leona river.

In October, 1861, a large band invaded the country, and in their wanton role of death and destruction, not only was there great loss of human life but much loss of stock killed and stolen. At this time "Mustang" Moore and James Winters were killed near the present town of Moore; Dr. Thomas Speed and L. T. Ward were wounded. Others engaged in this encounter were James Craig, James Bishop and Norville Kennard.

July 4, 1865, Indians chased Ed Burleson, but he managed to reach his home in safety. The following neighbors started on the trail of the redmen: namely, Levi English, A. L. Franks, G. W. Daugherty, A. D. Aiken , Ed Burleson, W. C. Bell, Dean Oden, Bud English, John Berry, Frank and Dan Williams. A fight ensued in which Dean Oden, Dan Williams and Bud English were killed. Five others were wounded and only three escaped unscathed.

Dean Oden, with his two comrades who fell on this fateful day rest in a long deserted and almost forgotten cemetery near the old Martin ranch, located above the mouth of the Leona river and a short distance above and overlooking present Frio State Park.

About 1876-1877, the Bennett settlement on the Leona, named for Hamilton Bennett, became a thriving community. An irrigation project was contemplated, a dam and canal was about completed, when floods swept the dam away, which was never replaced.

In 1878 a post office was established by name of Hamlin. This was soon discontinued. At the Bishop Hollow settlement, a few miles from the present town of Pearsall, a post office was established in 1878 by the name of Ireland, although it was also known as Pencilville. This office was discontinued in 1881.

Another important neighborhood, near the line of Frio and Medina counties, was the Tehuacana settlement, located along the Tehuacana Creek. The Live Oak settlement on the Live Oak Creeks has long since been abandoned. It was located near the center of the vast ranch of Captain B. L. Crouch, now owned by Halff and Oppenheimer.

Many Mexican war veterans were early settlers of Frio county, among them Benjamin Slaughter, William A . A. Wallace, James W. Winters and James Winters. Benjamin Slaughter with a band of followers, left Mississippi January, 1836, for Texas to join the forces in the field. When within a short distance of Houston, they learned of the complete victory over the Mexican army. Later he served in Captain Hill's company, Colonel Hays' Regiment, Texas Mounted Volunteers. James Winters, a valiant San Jacinto veteran, was killed by Indians.

James W. Winters, who fought in Tennessee, January 21, 1817. He came to Texas in 1834 and to Frio county about 1880, died October 15, 1903, and is buried in the Brummett Cemetery near Big Foot, Texas.

William A. A. (Big Foot) Wallace figured largely in Frio county history. He was born in Lexington, Va., April 3, 1817. He came to Texas in 1836. He was known as a great Indian fighter and ranger, a man of fine character and indomitable courage. A participant in many fights with Mexicans and Indians, he miraculously escaped in many dangerous encounters. "Captain," as his friends called him, was a welcome visitor in every home. His friendly benevolent manner won many friends. Children, as well as older people, gathered near him and all were eager to hear him relate his interesting experiences.

Often he told the story of when he and Benjamin (Ben) Slaughter were prisoners together during the Mexican invasion of Texas. The Texas prisoners were forced to draw heavy loads of stone for building construction. Ben Slaughter, with his great sense of humor, would soon have the Mexican guards convulsed with laughter; yet he gained great favor and was one of the first prisoners exchanged. With a smile of reminiscence, he would say, "We broke up many a cart and tore up lots of harness. "

William A. A. Wallace died January 9, 1899. His body was first interred in Longview Cemetery at Big Foot. Later it was removed to Austin and now rests in the State Cemetery.

The town of Bigfoot, named for "Big Foot" Wallace, was established about 1880. It is an interesting place with much early history. The present residents are mostly descendants of the early citizens; namely, John Brummett, John Thomas, Peter Gardner, Bob Dixon, J. A. Leach, George Henson and others. Located near is the Brummett cemetery. The first grave therein was that of an Indian, killed, so the story goes, in a fight with the whites and given a civilized burial by the settlers.

Until 1878-1879 the country was unfenced. At this time cattlemen began to fence their holdings. This displeased those who were reaping the benefits of free range. Consequently, the fence cutters (Free Grazers, they styled themselves) organized and destroyed many miles of fence. This act of destruction ceased in 1884, when a law was enacted by the legislature making fence cutting a penitentiary offense.

In 1880 a survey was made and the International and Great Northern Railroad (now the Missouri Pacific) extended its main line through Frio county, missing Frio City. On July 4, 1881, the first passenger train pulled into the newly founded town of Pearsall. On this day lots were sold. The first offered, that on the corner opposite the railroad station was sold to R. G. Long. The town was located on the site of a large sheep 'ranch'. This place was known as Waggoner's Well. At this time the rolling prairie country was covered with a luxuriant growth of sage grass. Prairie fires were of frequent occurrence. The grass became ignited from a camp fire and fanned by a brisk treeze, was soon a sweeping flame. Many of the new residents had a hard fight to save the lumber for their new homes.

Again the sound of the hammer was heard in Frio City, a thriving town of one thousand people or more, but this time it was laying low the houses and moving them to Pearsall, thus ending the fair little city. In 1883 the county seat was moved from Frio City to Pearsall, and in 1886 the name of Frio City was changed to Frio Town.

At Pearsall, a temporary courthouse was built of lumber. In 1904 the present brick building was erected—also the present jail is of brick. With the two temporary lumber buildings considered, Frio county has had four court houses.

Pearsall has had steady growth with substantial business houses and many, pretty residences.

Dilley, Derby, Melon and Moore are towns along the railroad. Dilley, the second town in size, is an enterprising and growing town. Moore was named for "Mustang" Moore, who was killed by Indians in 1861.

In 1879 John Bennett moved where the town of Derby now stands. He was an engineer in the survey of the railroad line in 1880. His descendants are now living at Derby, which Mr. Bennett named for his old home in England.

Miguel, Sand Hollow, Keystone, Orelia, Divot and Schattel are important farming and stock-raising communities.

Since 1858, when the county was first created, to the present time, the mode of travel, in regard to speed, has been reduced from weeks to hours.

After these courageous men of the early days had made the county safe, paving the way for the present peace and civilization, their children have not stood still. Although the ranches have been cut into smaller tracts, and the herds of cattle reduced in number, the cattle are better bred. Much land has been turned to cultivation, many acres to truck farming, irrigated from a vast underground supply of water.

At present, there is an interesting development in oil, and Frio county has promise of becoming a great oil field.

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Some Early Bell County History - L.A. Changer, Ritteen, Texas.

2014-04-15

[From Hunter's Frontier Times Magazine, March, 1928]

THREE YEARS after the organization of Bell county and in the fall of the year 1856, there was a decided movement of the Mormon Church in Salt Lake City, Utah, to gain converts to the Mormon faith, and in accordance with this decision, after a report of local conditions in Texas to the Mormon Bishops in Salt Lake City, it was then decided to establish a settlement of Mormons in the western part of Bell county, and a company composed of twelve or fifteen Mormon preachers were delegated to begin this colonization scheme to the everlasting glory of Brigham Young and his satelites.

In the early part of September these advance advocates of the Mormon religion reached the frontier town of Belton, which was then composed of a stage station and some ten or twelve stores, of which about half were saloons and gambling houses, and took up their residence temporarily on the banks of Nolan creek just west of where the courthouse now stands, and after resting for a few days, the Elders got down to business and sent out parties of two each into the different settlements of the new county to gain converts to the Mormon faith ostensibly, but in fact to get all the likeable young women wherever possible as converts to the faith and later as wives for the glorified church dignitaries in Salt Lake City.

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Founding of San Saba County - Alma Ward Hamrick

2014-04-14

[From Hunter's Frontier Times Magazine, April, 1934]

THE EIGHTIETH anniversary of the founding of San Saba county is being commemorated by San Sabans during 1934 in a series of programs, articles written on early days of San Saba county, possibly, the presentation of a pageant, and many reunions including the eleventh annual San Saba County Old Settlers' reunion here in August.

The first permanent white settlers to arrive in the county were David Matsler, wife and son who came from Burnet county here on November 7, 1854 and settled on Cherokee Creek near the present town of Chappel. The original homestead of the Matslers is owned by the youngest son of the couple, Tom Matsler, who has one of the best improved pecan orchards in this section of the state.

Some seven years prior to the arrival of the first family of settlers, or in 1847, Count Meusebach of Germany in company with thirty nine other former students of the German universities, including Gustave Schliecher, had purchased the entire San Saba River valley from the Comanche Indians for the sum of one thousand dollars' worth of trinkets, guns, and other paraphernalia. These men, known as the "Colony of Forty" had purchased the land in this adjoining counties for the purpose of carrying on farming and stockraising on the most scientific methods but location was beyond the settled portion of the country, and the Indian depredations and other causes soon rendered the enterprise impracticable. They removed to San Antonio from their settlement southwest of here.

David Matsler, who purchased his land from Schliecher, was soon joined by others including the three Low brothers, D. D. Low, J. M. Low and W. A. Low, E. M. Boyett, Abner Gregg, Fielding Dawson, W. H. Smelser, Judge Joab Harrell, S. A. Houston, cousin of the illustrious Sam Houston, who came from Tennessee, Rev. Arnett, H. W. Marley and others.

In the year 1855 the Simpson Creek community, three miles east of San Saba was settled by Joe and Jim Barnett, T. P. Hamrick, Sam Linn, D. A. Harris, W. W. Crawford and Jim Crawford, while a few miles to the west of the present city of San Saba, four Harkey brothers with their father, J. M. Harkey, founded the town and community of Harkeyville with the help of Jackson Brown and J. McDaniel. In the Richland Springs section James Wood and four sons, with a friend, A . Woods, came in 1855 and soon were joined by "Pony" and "Beardy" Hall, Pick and Bob Duncan. In that same year and for the next few years, the Sloan section of this county was settled by Dr. Sloan and two sons, Dr. Allen, Jerry Fleming, M. H. Wadsworth, Henry W. Ellis, A. J. Rose who ran the Rose Mill there for many years, the Lathams, Hendersons, Thaxtons and others. Around Cherokee in the southern part of the county were Dr. Elliott, Capt. John R. Williams who was killed by the Indians in the Babyhead Indian fight, Hanna, Hext, R. W . and G. J. Gray, Kuykendall, Barbers and Montgomery.

Possibly the man who stood foremost in the founding of the town of San Saba and who ranked high in the leadership of that town for more than fifty years was Dr. J. C. Rogan who had finished a medical school in Baltimore, Maryland and came with his wife and two children from Tennessee to Bastrop, later coming to this section in 1855. He was first postmaster here, first superintendent of a Sunday School and the leading physician here for many years. Twenty-six orphans were reared in his home by his wife and after the rearing of their own two. Other pioneers arriving during the fifties were Dr. J. C. Hudson, J. S. Williams, G. B. Cooke, Freestones, W. T. Murray and T. W. Ward who were the founders of the Ward-Murray Bank, now City National Bank which is in its fifty-first year of service to the county, J. H. Brown, Geo. Brown, E. Estep and a half dozen others.

Campmeetings and dances were the chief sources of diversion for the people during the period of the Civil War and following. The Seventy-sixth Annual Methodist Camp meeting will be held on Cherokee Creek near Chappel in August on land given for the purpose by Mrs. David Matsler, Mrs. E. E. West and It. H. Walton. Half of the marriages in the southeastern part of the county have their courtships originating during the campmeeting, which always begins on the Friday night before the third Sunday night in August . Divorces are very rare among those who regularly attend this gathering. Among the charter members of this congregation are Mrs. Elizabeth Houston Relp, and George Matsler, both of this county . Among other charter members for the various churches in the county are Mrs. S. W. Walker, Methodist Episcopal South; Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Leverett, Presbyterian, U.S.A .; J. D. Estop, Church of Christ; Mrs. May Ward Roman, Catholic, and Mrs. John Brown Carroll, who was one of the first members to be baptized into the Baptist church, all of San Saba. N. R . Sloan of San Saba are among the earlier members of the Presbyterian church at Sloan or Rock Shoals.

Among the oldest business enterprises of the city all of which have done business for fifty years or more are the City National Bank, the J. W. McConnell Grocery Company, J. D. Estop Hardware and Implements, the J. M . Carter Estate, and the E. E. Risien Pecan Nursery.

San Saba a modern little city with a population of 2,500 has a municipally-owned water and sewerage system, all principal streets paved, a $100,000 hotel, three school buildings with an enrollment of more than 800 students, chamber of commerce, Lions' and Rotary Clubs and other civic organizations, and with many thousands of dollars invested in church buildings is known as the "City of Churches."

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