History of San Angelo, Texas: From Frontier Settlement to Thriving City
San Angelo, Texas, a city nestled on the banks of the Concho River in West Texas, boasts a rich history that traces back to the days of the American frontier. From its early days as a military outpost to its development into a vibrant city, San Angelo has played an important role in the growth of Texas and the American Southwest. The city’s unique blend of cultures, military significance, economic development, and rich historical heritage make it a fascinating subject of study. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of San Angelo, exploring its origins, key milestones, and the forces that shaped it into the city it is today.
1. The Beginnings: Native American Roots and Early Spanish Influence
Before European settlers arrived, the region around modern-day San Angelo was inhabited by several Native American tribes. The Lipan Apache and Comanche people roamed the plains of West Texas, living off the land and engaging in trade with other indigenous groups. The Comanche, known for their horse-riding skills, dominated the area during the 18th and 19th centuries.
In the late 1600s, Spanish explorers ventured into the region, marking the beginning of European influence. While no permanent Spanish settlements were established in San Angelo itself, the Spanish laid the groundwork for future exploration and colonization of Texas. Their interactions with local Native American tribes would shape the early development of the area.
2. The Establishment of Fort Concho
San Angelo’s history as a permanent settlement began in the post-Civil War period, a time of rapid westward expansion in the United States. In 1867, the U.S. Army established Fort Concho, a military post designed to protect settlers from raids by the Comanche and other Native American tribes. The fort was strategically located near the Concho River, providing a vital water source for the soldiers stationed there.
Fort Concho became one of the most important military posts in West Texas, housing units of the Buffalo Soldiers—African-American regiments tasked with securing the frontier. The fort was instrumental in pacifying the region and facilitating further settlement by European Americans.
3. The Birth of San Angelo: Santa Angela and Early Growth
The town of San Angelo owes its origins to a local entrepreneur, Bartholomew J. DeWitt, who saw an opportunity to establish a settlement near Fort Concho. In 1869, DeWitt founded the town, originally naming it Santa Angela after his wife, Carolina Angela. The name was later changed to San Angelo, possibly due to a clerical error or a desire to give the town a more Spanish-sounding name in keeping with regional traditions.
During its early years, San Angelo grew slowly, primarily serving the needs of soldiers stationed at Fort Concho and the growing number of settlers attracted to the region by the availability of land and economic opportunities. The town functioned as a hub for trade, supplies, and services for the surrounding rural areas.
4. The Coming of the Railroad: Economic Transformation
One of the most transformative events in San Angelo’s history was the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. In 1888, the Santa Fe Railroad extended its lines to San Angelo, connecting the town to larger markets and making it easier to transport goods, livestock, and people. This significantly boosted the local economy and attracted new residents and businesses to the area.
The arrival of the railroad marked the beginning of San Angelo’s economic transformation. The town became an important shipping center for cattle, sheep, and cotton, industries that would continue to dominate the region’s economy for decades. The railroad also spurred the development of other industries, such as banking, retail, and manufacturing, further fueling San Angelo’s growth.
5. San Angelo’s Role in the Texas Sheep Industry
San Angelo’s agricultural roots run deep, with the region becoming known as the “Wool Capital of the World” during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The combination of vast grasslands, suitable for grazing, and the railroad’s ability to transport wool to larger markets made San Angelo a key player in the wool industry.
Ranchers in the surrounding area raised thousands of sheep, and San Angelo became a bustling center for the trade of wool and other livestock products. The city hosted annual wool and mohair auctions, attracting buyers from across the country. The success of the wool industry helped establish San Angelo as a prosperous agricultural hub and contributed to its continued growth and development.
6. Twentieth-Century Growth and World War II
The early 20th century was a time of rapid change for San Angelo. As the population grew, the city’s infrastructure expanded to meet the needs of its residents. Roads were built, schools were established, and businesses flourished. However, it was the onset of World War II that had one of the most significant impacts on the city.
During the war, Goodfellow Air Force Base was established in 1940, further cementing San Angelo’s military importance. Originally a pilot training base, Goodfellow has since evolved into a key intelligence training center for the U.S. Air Force and other military branches. The presence of the base brought a surge in population and economic activity to San Angelo, as military personnel and their families settled in the area, boosting demand for housing, goods, and services.
7. The Oil Boom and Economic Diversification
In the mid-20th century, San Angelo experienced another economic boom, this time driven by the discovery of oil in West Texas. Oil drilling and production in the region brought new wealth and investment to the city. Although San Angelo was not a major oil-producing city itself, it benefited from its proximity to the oil fields and served as a hub for the businesses and services that supported the industry.
The influx of oil money led to the expansion of infrastructure and the growth of various industries in the city. Over time, San Angelo’s economy diversified, with healthcare, education, and manufacturing playing increasingly important roles alongside the traditional industries of agriculture and ranching.
8. Cultural Development and the Arts in San Angelo
In addition to its economic growth, San Angelo has developed a rich cultural scene over the years. The city is home to a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters that celebrate the region’s history and artistic heritage. Notable institutions include the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases contemporary and regional art, and the Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, which preserves the history of the military fort that played such a pivotal role in the city’s founding.
San Angelo’s cultural scene has also been shaped by its diverse population, which includes a strong Hispanic community. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city’s festivals, such as the Cinco de Mayo celebration, and its vibrant culinary scene, which features a blend of Mexican, Tex-Mex, and traditional American cuisine.
9. The Evolution of San Angelo’s Educational Institutions
Education has always been a cornerstone of San Angelo’s development. The city is home to Angelo State University (ASU), which was founded in 1928 as San Angelo College. Over the years, ASU has grown into a respected public university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university has played a key role in shaping the local economy, providing educational opportunities for residents and attracting students from across the state and country.
San Angelo’s commitment to education extends beyond the university level. The city’s public and private schools are known for their strong academic programs, and numerous vocational and technical training centers have emerged to support the needs of the local workforce.
10. San Angelo Today: A City with a Bright Future
Today, San Angelo is a thriving city with a population of over 100,000 people. It has retained its small-town charm while embracing the opportunities of the modern world. The city’s economy continues to diversify, with healthcare, education, and tourism playing increasingly important roles. San Angelo’s location in the heart of West Texas makes it a regional hub for commerce, healthcare, and entertainment.
The city has also made efforts to preserve its rich history while looking toward the future. Many of the historic buildings and landmarks from San Angelo’s past have been restored and repurposed, giving the city a unique blend of old and new. From the Concho River Walk to the historic Fort Concho and modern shopping districts, San Angelo offers something for everyone.
Conclusion
San Angelo, Texas, is a city with a fascinating history that stretches back to the days of the American frontier. From its humble beginnings as a military outpost to its current status as a thriving regional center, San Angelo has undergone significant changes over the years. Its rich history, shaped by Native American tribes, European settlers, military conflicts, and economic booms, has left a lasting impact on the city’s culture and identity.
Today, San Angelo continues to grow and evolve, balancing its historical roots with the demands of the modern world. Whether you’re interested in exploring its military past, delving into its role in the wool and oil industries, or enjoying its vibrant arts and cultural scene, San Angelo offers a unique glimpse into the history of Texas and the American Southwest. With a bright future ahead, this historic city is poised to continue its legacy of growth and prosperity.