Preserving Our Past for Future Generations
The Crockett County Historical Commission is actively involved in a number of meaningful projects that honor and protect the rich heritage of Ozona and the surrounding region. Below are some of our current and recent efforts:
The Emerald House Represents the Unwavering Attitude of West Texas Pioneers
by Dr. Laura Graves
The oldest surviving structure in Crockett County, Texas, is what is known as the “Emerald House.” The house was originally built in 1889, in Emerald, Texas, as part of a town-building plan of the Fort Worth and Rio Grande Railway Company. Two years later, the town site was abandoned because the railroad company went bankrupt. But the house was deemed too good to abandon so it was loaded on several mule-driven wagons and moved across the pastures and draws seven miles to the newly established Ozona, Texas, the new county seat of Crockett County.
The Emerald House was never a fancy home but it withstood changing fortunes and between 1893 and the late 1970s, was home to a long list of Ozona families. For more than a century the Emerald House stood just off 11th Street on Avenue F.
In the early 1980s, the house was relocated to the Crockett County Fair Grounds. At that time, the structure was restored so that the Emerald House could be used as a community building and part of a new museum complex. Between then and now, the museum complex did not become a reality and community use declined.
Many believed the Emerald House had lived long beyond its lifespan and that it should be demolished. However, not everyone was willing to accept that verdict. Like their hardy ancestors who also worked to improve opportunities for everyone in Ozona, Texas, the Crockett County Commissioners and the Crockett County Historical Commission wanted to know if there was any life left in the Emerald House.
In the spring of 2025 the County Commissioners requested Preservation Texas to examine the Emerald House and determine the feasibility of keeping and using the Emerald House.
Preservation Texas is a non-profit organization which “undertakes highly valued and innovative historic preservation initiatives, led by its exemplary team of professional staff, and delivered through its robustly supported network of regional offices and historic properties.”
The findings of Preservation Texas surprised many. After extensive physical examination, they found that the Emerald House needs nothing more than minor renovation; that it is in remarkably good condition. The oldest existing structure in Crockett County, Texas, has many more years of life in it.
Their second finding expressed a desire for Preservation Texas to help support the Crockett County Commissioners and the Crockett County Historical Commission in executing a strategic relocation and restoration plan, ensuring that the Emerald House endures as a vibrant, publicly appreciated piece of Texas heritage.
Last week, Preservation Texas added the Emerald House to its annual list of what they believe are among the Most Endangered Places (MEP) in Texas. The MEP List spotlights imperiled historic places across Texas that are threatened by neglect, impending demolition, inappropriate alteration, or a radical loss of context. It was designed to draw statewide attention to Endangered Places so that local advocates can build momentum toward their protection.
Working hand in hand, Preservation Texas will lend its expertise to the County Commissioners, the Historical Commission Committee, and Ozona citizens so that we can come up with a new location for the Emerald House, community engagement tactics, and identifying potential funding sources to bring the Emerald House back to life. Preservation Texas wrote, “under our stewardship, we would launch a targeted fundraising campaign to finance stabilization, restoration, and adaptive reuse initiatives. Our vision includes transforming the building into a sustainable asset that balances limited public access with revenue-generating functions.”
They envision the Emerald House hosting periodic tours, educational exhibits, or cultural events to engage the community, while simultaneously serving as a leased office space for nonprofits or small businesses.
At the present time, everyone is working to find the Emerald House a new, permanent location in Ozona and creating a comprehensive use plan with adequate and consistent funding to carry it into the future.
ALAMO LETTER SOCIETY PLAQUE Dedication
April 22, 2025
On Tuesday, April 22nd, a ceremony was held at Town Square to unveil the Lt. Col. William Barrett Travis "Victory or Death" Alamo Letter Society Plaque. Errol Flannery, 4th great-grandson of Davy Crockett, was the guest speaker. Click here for photos.
“A History of Crockett County” DVD
$50.00 – On Sale Now
This digital version of the original A History of Crockett County book features a fully searchable format, making it easier than ever to explore local family stories, historic landmarks, and community milestones. A valuable resource for researchers, students, and history lovers alike.
“A History of Crockett County – Volume II”
We’re writing the next chapter! The Commission will be gathering stories, photographs, articles, and family histories for an updated second volume of A History of Crockett County. This expanded edition will include new insights into Ozona, its people, and the evolution of our county.
Want to contribute?
Pick up writing tips and submission forms at the Crockett County Public Library or download them directly from the library’s website. Don’t miss this opportunity to have your family’s story included in the historical record.
[Download Forms – Crockett County Public Library Website] (Insert hyperlink)
Cedar Hill Cemetery Sign Replacement
In collaboration with the Crockett County Road Department, the Commission helped design and install a new entrance sign for Cedar Hill Cemetery following the addition of wrought iron fencing and stone pillars in 2009. This project honors the memory of those laid to rest and enhances the dignity of the historic cemetery grounds.
Cemetery Mapping Project
An extensive mapping initiative for Lima and Cedar Hill Cemeteries continues and completion is expected by 2027. Grave locations, names, and descriptions are being uploaded to our website to make it easier for families and researchers to locate burial sites. The final stage includes the installation of on-site signs with detailed maps at cemetery entrances.
Crockett County Courthouse Renovation
In partnership with County Frank Tambunga, the Commissioners Court, and the Texas Historical Commission, the historic Crockett County Courthouse is expected to undergo a full restoration. Architect Henry Schmidt and Templeton Construction are overseeing upgrades from top to bottom—including plumbing, utilities, and architectural details. The result is a beautifully restored structure that continues to serve the public while honoring its 100+ years of history.
We invite you to support and participate in these projects—because every effort made today ensures our local history is preserved for tomorrow.
For more information or to get involved, contact us at (432) 813-8226 or email [email protected].