National Register of Historic Places listings in Wilbarger County, Texas facts for kids
Have you ever wondered how we keep track of important old buildings and places? In the United States, there's a special list called the National Register of Historic Places. It's like a hall of fame for buildings, sites, and objects that are important to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized as a valuable part of our past that should be protected and remembered.
This article explores the one special place in Wilbarger County, Texas, that has earned a spot on this important list. This historic spot is also recognized as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, which means it's super important to Texas history too!
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Wilbarger County's Historic Gem
Wilbarger County, located in northern Texas, might only have one site on the National Register of Historic Places, but it's a very interesting one! This special place helps us understand what life was like a long time ago.
Doan's Adobe House: A Frontier Story
The only property in Wilbarger County listed on the National Register of Historic Places is the Doan's Adobe House. It was added to the list on February 8, 1979. This old house is located east of Odell, just off U.S. Highway 283, near the small community of Doans.
What is an Adobe House?
An adobe house is a building made from natural materials like earth, sand, clay, and water, often mixed with straw or other fibers. These materials are shaped into bricks and then dried in the sun. Adobe homes are known for being cool in the summer and warm in the winter, which was very helpful for pioneers in Texas!
Why is Doan's Adobe House Special?
Doan's Adobe House is more than just an old building; it's a piece of frontier history. It was built by Corwin F. Doan, who was a trader. His house and trading post became a very important stop for cowboys driving huge herds of cattle along the Great Western Cattle Trail. Imagine thousands of cattle and cowboys passing by this very spot! It was a busy and vital place for trade and rest during the late 1800s.
The house served as a general store, a post office, and even a place where people could stay overnight. It was a true hub for the community and for travelers moving through the area. Because of its important role in the cattle drive era and the settlement of Texas, it was recognized as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, showing its deep connection to the state's past.
