History of Armstrong County, Texas

Armstrong County, located in the Texas Panhandle, is a region steeped in history. Founded in 1876 and named after William Armstrong, a rancher and pioneer, the county has witnessed significant historical milestones. From its early days as a military post on the frontier, through the days of cattle ranching, the discovery of oil, and the hardships of the Dust Bowl, Armstrong County has continually evolved while maintaining strong ties to its agricultural roots. Today, the county offers a glimpse into the history of Texas’s early settlements and the expansion of the American West, with remnants of military history, old ranches, and a deep sense of local pride.

Origins of Armstrong County

Before settlers arrived in the area, Armstrong County was home to numerous Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa. These indigenous peoples thrived on the land for centuries, relying on the vast plains and the fertile river valleys for sustenance. The area’s geographical location between the Red River and the Llano Estacado made it a prime hunting ground, but also a contested space between various groups, including settlers, indigenous tribes, and eventually, the U.S. government.

In the 1860s, after the Civil War, the U.S. government began establishing military forts across the Texas frontier to help maintain order and protect settlers from Native American resistance. One of the most notable military installations in this area was Fort Elliott, established in 1867. Fort Elliott, located near the future site of Claude, was essential in facilitating the settlement of Armstrong County, offering protection to early settlers who were moving into the region as part of westward expansion.

By the late 1860s, cattle ranching began to take hold as the region’s primary economic activity, aided by the arrival of the railroad. In 1876, Armstrong County was formally organized out of land originally part of Bexar and Young counties. The county was named after William Armstrong, a well-known rancher who had settled in the area and played a key role in the development of the region. The county’s first permanent settlers were predominantly ranchers, drawn by the vast expanses of open land ideal for grazing cattle.

The Arrival of the Railroad (1887)

The late 19th century saw the arrival of the railroad, a transformative event in the history of Armstrong County. In 1887, the railroad line that ran through the county connected the area with larger cities like Amarillo and beyond, opening up new markets for local goods, especially cattle. This connection facilitated economic growth in Armstrong County, encouraging the establishment of new businesses and expanding agricultural production. The arrival of the railroad was also responsible for the founding of Claude, the county seat, as it provided better access to transportation, which was crucial for settlers and businesses in the region.

The railroad also brought an influx of new residents, and with it came the establishment of schools, churches, and other vital institutions. This period of development saw the birth of small towns and the improvement of infrastructure, allowing Armstrong County to evolve from a sparsely populated frontier to a more developed and stable region.

The Discovery of Oil and Economic Boom

At the turn of the 20th century, Armstrong County experienced a dramatic economic shift with the discovery of oil. As exploration and drilling technologies improved, oil fields were discovered in the surrounding regions of Armstrong County. The early 20th century brought a boom in oil production, and Armstrong County, along with other parts of the Panhandle, found itself at the heart of Texas’s oil industry.

This oil boom brought economic prosperity to the area, providing jobs and fostering the growth of towns like Clarendon. The increased wealth spurred further investment in infrastructure, including better roads, utilities, and public services, and allowed the county to recover from the hardships of previous decades, including the Great Depression. Though oil production in Armstrong County has slowed considerably in recent decades, the industry’s legacy can still be seen in the county’s development.

The Dust Bowl and Its Impact

Like much of the Great Plains, Armstrong County was deeply affected by the Dust Bowl during the 1930s. The region’s agricultural industry, which had grown rapidly in the early 20th century, was devastated by severe droughts, high winds, and unsustainable farming practices. Massive dust storms, which could block out the sun for days, destroyed crops, displaced families, and left the land parched and barren.

The Dust Bowl’s impact was felt across the Texas Panhandle, and Armstrong County was no exception. Many families were forced to abandon their farms and move westward in search of work and better living conditions. However, like many rural communities in Texas, Armstrong County was able to recover. With the help of federal relief programs and a shift toward more sustainable farming practices, the county slowly rebuilt its agricultural sector, though the scars of the Dust Bowl remained in the collective memory of local residents.

Key Historical Events

The Establishment of Fort Elliott (1867)

Fort Elliott, established in 1867, was pivotal in the history of Armstrong County. Located near the site of what would later become the county seat of Claude, the fort was originally constructed to provide protection to settlers and to control Native American populations in the region. It played a crucial role in protecting the early settlers from Comanche and Kiowa raids during a time when the American frontier was still fraught with conflict. The fort remained operational until 1886, after which it was abandoned, but it left behind a lasting legacy in the development of Armstrong County.

Today, the site of Fort Elliott is a historic landmark, with remnants of the fort available for visitors to explore. Though much of the fort’s infrastructure has eroded or been reclaimed by nature, visitors can still see the remains of several buildings and enjoy interpretive markers detailing the fort’s significance in Texas history.

The Arrival of the Railroad (1887)

The completion of the railroad through Armstrong County in 1887 marked a significant milestone in the county’s development. Prior to the railroad, transportation in the region was largely dependent on horse-drawn wagons and cattle drives. With the arrival of the railroad, however, Armstrong County was linked to larger markets in Amarillo and Fort Worth, allowing ranchers to sell cattle and other goods more efficiently. The railroad also facilitated the movement of settlers to the area, leading to the founding of Claude and the county’s other small towns.

The railroad brought new businesses, schools, and institutions to the region, helping to shape the economic and social landscape of Armstrong County during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the legacy of the railroad is still felt, as the town of Claude remains an important regional hub.

The Oil Boom and Development (Early 20th Century)

The discovery of oil in Armstrong County in the early 1900s heralded a new economic era for the region. With the Panhandle oil fields just a short distance away, Armstrong County became a center of oil exploration and drilling activity. This brought wealth to the county, spurred population growth, and created an industrial base that diversified the economy beyond agriculture.

The oil boom also led to the construction of infrastructure like roads, pipelines, and refineries. It helped transform Armstrong County into an area of economic importance and stability. While oil production in the area is no longer as dominant as it once was, the effects of the boom can still be seen in the county’s architecture and infrastructure.

The Dust Bowl (1930s)

The Dust Bowl was one of the most difficult periods in the history of Armstrong County. In the 1930s, a combination of drought, over-farming, and strong winds led to devastating dust storms that ruined crops, made farming nearly impossible, and forced many families to leave the region. Armstrong County, like many parts of the Great Plains, was deeply affected by these environmental conditions, with entire communities displaced as people sought new opportunities in places like California.

The Dust Bowl’s legacy has shaped much of the county’s culture, and many residents of Armstrong County still recall the hardships faced during those years. The resilience of the people, however, also played a major role in the county’s eventual recovery and revitalization.

Historical Sites in Armstrong County

1. Fort Elliott Historic Site

Overview:
Fort Elliott, established in 1867 to protect settlers on the frontier, offers a glimpse into the military history of Armstrong County. Though only remnants of the fort remain, visitors can explore the site, read informational plaques, and imagine the challenges that early settlers faced. The fort played a significant role in shaping the region’s development and is one of the most important historical landmarks in Armstrong County.

Location:
About 10 miles south of Claude, Texas, off U.S. Highway 287.

Ticket Price:
Free to the public.

Parking Information:
There is a small parking lot near the site, with enough space for passenger vehicles and visitors traveling by RV.

2. Armstrong County Courthouse

Overview:
The Armstrong County Courthouse in Claude, built in 1913, is a stunning example of classical revival architecture. The courthouse has served as the center of local government for over a century and remains an important part of the county’s civic life. The structure is recognized as a historical building and is still in use today for county functions.

Location:
500 Main Street, Claude, Texas.

Ticket Price:
Free to visit.

Parking Information:
Street parking is available around the courthouse square.

3. The Old Rock Schoolhouse

Overview:
Built in the late 1800s, the Old Rock Schoolhouse is one of the oldest buildings in Armstrong County. It served as an educational facility for the county’s early settlers, many of whom had limited access to formal education. Today, it functions as a museum where visitors can learn about the early educational history of Armstrong County and see exhibits about local life in the 19th century.

Location:
415 Main Street, Claude, Texas.

Ticket Price:
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.

Parking Information:
There is ample street parking available near the building.

4. Clarendon Historic District

Overview:
The Clarendon Historic District contains several buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The district includes notable structures like the former train depot, as well as various homes and commercial buildings that provide a window into the region’s architectural development. The area retains much of its historical charm, and visitors can explore the district while learning about the town’s rich history.

Location:
Main Street, Clarendon, Texas.

Ticket Price:
Free to explore. Some buildings may have restricted access.

Parking Information:
Street parking is available throughout the district.

Armstrong County Facts

Geography and Climate

Armstrong County is situated in the northern part of the Texas Panhandle, spanning over 900 square miles. The county is characterized by flat plains, rolling grasslands, and the fertile land along the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River. The region’s geography has long supported agriculture, with ranching and farming being the backbone of the local economy. The county is located in a semi-arid climate zone, with hot summers, mild winters, and frequent droughts. The area’s weather can be harsh, especially during the summer months, but occasional rainfall during the spring and fall seasons helps maintain the county’s agricultural viability.

Key Facts

• Year Founded: 1876
• County Seat: Claude
• Population: Approximately 1,900 (2020 census)
• Population Density: 2.1 people per square mile
• Largest Cities:
  • Claude (County Seat)
  • Clarendon
• Major Highways:
  • U.S. Highway 287
  • State Highway 207
  • State Highway 283
• Adjacent Counties:
  • Donley County (north)
  • Wheeler County (east)
  • Randall County (south)
  • Oldham County (west)
  • Deaf Smith County (southwest)