National Register of Historic Places listings in Coke County, Texas facts for kids
This article tells you about special places in Coke County, Texas that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This register is like a special list kept by the United States government. It helps protect important buildings, sites, and districts that have a lot of history. When a place is on this list, it means it's worth saving for future generations to learn from and enjoy.
In Coke County, there are two places on this important list. One is an old jail, and the other is a historic fort.
Historic Places in Coke County, Texas
The Old Coke County Jail
The Coke County Jail is a historic building located in Robert Lee, Texas. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 23, 2004. This old jail is found at 6th Street and Chadbourne.
Jails like this one were important parts of communities long ago. They were used to hold people who broke the law. Even though it's not used as a jail anymore, it stands as a reminder of the county's past and how justice was handled. Its architecture and history make it a valuable part of Coke County's heritage.
Fort Chadbourne: A Frontier Outpost
Fort Chadbourne is a very important historic site near Bronte, Texas. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 2, 1973. This fort is located off US Highway 277, close to the border between Runnels and Coke counties.
Fort Chadbourne was built in 1852 as a military outpost. Its main job was to protect settlers and travelers moving through the area. It was a key stop along the Butterfield Overland Mail route. This was a famous stagecoach line that carried mail and passengers across the country in the 1850s. Imagine stagecoaches stopping here for fresh horses and a safe place to rest!
The fort played a big role in the history of the American frontier. Soldiers stationed here helped keep the peace and supported westward expansion. Today, much of the fort has been restored, allowing visitors to see what life was like for soldiers and travelers in the mid-1800s. It's a great place to learn about Texas history and the challenges faced by pioneers.