Crowell, Texas
– Frontier Spirit and Starry Nights.
Founded in 1891, this small Texas community was born from the expansion of the Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railway. As settlements sprang up along the rail line, the town quickly became the seat of the newly established Foard County. It was named after a railroad official, Robert Crowell, who played a role in developing the region. While it remained a modest frontier settlement in its early years, its location in the heart of cattle country gave it a strong foundation to grow.
The Early Days and Growth of a County Seat
By the time the town took shape, the Texas frontier had transformed from a rugged battleground into a landscape of ranches, farms, and growing commerce. Like many West Texas communities, it attracted settlers seeking new opportunities despite the challenges of harsh weather, isolation, and economic uncertainty. The arrival of the railway brought an influx of ranchers, merchants, and families eager to build a new life.
One of the town’s most notable landmarks, the Foard County Courthouse, was constructed in 1910 and continues to anchor the town square. Designed by Elmer George Withers, this Classical Revival-style courthouse stands as a reminder of a time when county seats were the centers of commerce and justice. Its stately appearance makes it a standout feature in an otherwise quiet downtown.
A Key Moment in Texas History
While the town itself formed at the end of the 19th century, the land around it had already witnessed an event that shaped Texas history
Just outside of town lies the Pease River battleground, where, in 1860, a group of Texas Rangers and U.S. Cavalry forces recaptured Cynthia Ann Parker from the Comanche. Parker had been taken as a child during a raid in 1836 and had fully assimilated into Comanche life, marrying Chief Peta Nocona and giving birth to Quanah Parker, who would later become one of the most influential Comanche leaders. Her forced return to Anglo society was tragic, as she never readjusted to life away from her adopted people. This pivotal event signaled the decline of Comanche dominance in Texas, making the region safe for settlers but marking the end of an era for the indigenous tribes.
Small Town Resilience Through the Years
The town prospered in the early 20th century thanks to cattle ranching and agriculture. Cotton and wheat fields stretched for miles, and businesses lined the streets near the courthouse. However, as with many rural Texas towns, the Great Depression and changes in the agricultural economy led to population declines over time.
Though the town never became a major urban center, its people held onto their way of life with determination. Local businesses, schools, and civic organizations kept the community together, adapting to economic shifts and changes in technology. While many Texas towns faded into obscurity, this one managed to endure, thanks in part to its role as the county seat and the pride of its residents.
A Destination for Stargazers and History Enthusiasts
Today, the town remains a place where history and nature converge in fascinating ways. One of its most unique modern attractions is the Comanche Springs Astronomy Campus. Located a few miles outside of town, this facility offers some of the best dark-sky conditions in the state, making it an incredible destination for astronomers and stargazing enthusiasts. The campus hosts public events, educational programs, and research projects, drawing visitors from across Texas and beyond.
For those interested in history, the courthouse still stands as a centerpiece of the community, its architecture a symbol of early 20th-century civic pride. Visitors can also explore the surrounding landscape to find traces of the region’s frontier past, from old cattle trails to historic markers detailing the Pease River battle.
A Look at Today and the Road Ahead
Like many small towns in Texas, this community faces the challenges of a changing economy, with younger generations often moving to larger cities for work.
However, its sense of identity remains strong. Local events, school sports, and community gatherings continue to bring residents together, keeping traditions alive.
With its ties to Texas history, breathtaking night skies, and a courthouse that has stood the test of time, this Crowell offers a unique glimpse into both the past and the present. Whether you’re visiting to explore its historical significance, take in the vast West Texas landscape, or simply enjoy the quiet charm of a small-town square, it’s a place that continues to stand tall against the shifting sands of time.
