Foard

Foard County

Updated on: November 18, 2021
Coordinates
33° 58' 48" N, 99° 46' 48" W 33.98, -99.78
State
Texas
Region
North Central
County Seat:
Crowell
Year Organized:
1891
Total Square Miles:
707.685
Population:
1222 (2017)
Persons/Square Mile:
2
Foard County Website
http://www.foardcounty.texas.gov/

Contiguous Counties

Hardeman (N)
Wilbarger (E)
Baylor (SE)
Knox (S)
King (SW)
Cottle (W)

County structure

Government Type:
County
Authority:
Dillon's Rule
Legislative Body:
Commisioners Court
Size of Legislative Body:
5

Demographics

2018 Population:
1222
25 to 64 Years of Age:
46.17%
65 Years of Age and Older:
26.33%

Economy, 2018

Gross Domestic Product (GDP):
$48.7 M
Labor Force:
577
Unemployment Rate:
2.90%

County Contact

PO BOX 539
Crowell, TX, 79227-0539

Foard County, Texas, dates back to the mid-1800s when it was established as a county in Eastland and named after Robert Levi Foard, a former Attorney in the Confederate Army. The county seat is Crowell which has most of the government offices and court facilities. 

Read ahead to discover more about Foard County, Texas. 

Early History of Foard County, Texas 

Foard County, Texas, was created in 1891 and organized the same year. The county got its name to honor Robert Levi Foard, who served as an attorney during the Civil War. 

It became part of the new state of West Texas after being formed from parts of Bexar, DeWitt, Comanche, Hemphill, Midway, Presidio, Reeves, Terrell, Upshur, Walker, Yoakum Counties.  

The first settlers came into the area in the early 1840s under the leadership of John Sowell and his wife, Jane. They were followed by many others, including James W. Ragsdale, George Toler, William Lacy, and Sam A. Allen. These pioneers built their homes along Bear Creek and opened trading posts at that location.  

Early settlers included the following families who practiced farming, ranching, and hunting. Besides, they also engaged in livestock trading with neighboring communities.  

In 1858, Dr. Henry Ford purchased land in what later became known as Fordo County. He established farms here where he raised cattle and sheep. Later on, he bought additional lands for growing cotton and wheat. 

By 1860, several people settled near the farmlands. However, no towns or cities ever developed here. Instead, the population remained small until the 1890s. 

Indians and Buffalo hunters frequented this region throughout history. In fact, one legend claims that there are still buffaloes roaming around today. 

Attractions in Foard County, Texas 

This county is home to many attractions like Fort Griffin State Park, Big Spring National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Texoma, Oakwood Cemetery, and much more. If you love nature, then visit these places while visiting Foard County, Texas. 

Fort Griffin State Park is located outside town near the lake. It consists of over 600 acres of beautiful pine forest full of wildlife such as deer, bobcats, turkey, and wild boars. 

There are also hiking trails leading through the woods. This place attracts visitors all around the globe because of its beauty. 

Another attraction worth mentioning is Big Spring National Wildlife refuge. Located just off I-20 between Dallas and Abilene, the big spring national wildlife is considered one of the best bird-watching spots in North America.   

Every year thousands of birds migrate to this spot looking for food and shelter. You can easily see hundreds of species in this sanctuary. 

Lake Texoma is another great tourist destination in Foard County, Texas. It is situated 25 miles northeast of downtown Crowell. Visitors come here mainly to enjoy fishing activities.  

There are numerous lakes, streams, and rivers nearby, offering plenty of opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Fishing is a prevalent activity among locals and tourists alike. 

The Economy of Foard County Texas 

Foard County, Texas, is vibrant as people can make a living out of agriculture which has been going strong since the beginning. The other major source of income is oil production.  

Many companies have set up shops here due to low taxes and a cheap labor force. As far as tourism goes, it does not play an important role but rather serves as an additional source of revenue.  

People who live here work hard to provide better lives for themselves and their family members. 

Additionally, some mining sites employ residents.  

These include coal mines, sand quarries, and limestone deposits. Some manufacturing plants have also opened their doors in recent years bringing new jobs into the area. 

The county government provides licenses for most businesses operating within its limits. Taxes vary depending on whether you own your business or rent space inside somebody else’s building. 

Most residents are self-employed, while others choose to work at local retail stores. Others prefer to take advantage of the services offered by the city of Foard. Businesses include banks, medical clinics, gas stations, and grocery stores. 

Education in Foard County, Texas 

There are three different schools serving students residing in Foard County, Texas. Each school offers unique programs to provide children with the education needed to succeed after high school graduation. 

School districts are responsible for public schooling. They offer classes ranging from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Students must attend school until age 18 before graduating from high school. Schools usually follow curriculums prescribed by state standards.   

All courses taught should be related to students’ interests and career goals. In addition, parents will need to ensure that their child attends regular and frequent class sessions. This ensures that they learn all aspects of academics well enough to graduate successfully. 

Private schools cater to those wishing to learn more than what is being provided at home. Private schools often specialize in teaching music, art, foreign languages, physical fitness, etc.  

Most private schools accept both boys and girls, whereas public ones only admit males. However, there are exceptions where certain private schools allow females to enroll. 

County Offices and Roles 

The County Judge’s Office ensures that laws, and regulations are strictly followed throughout the county. Honorable Mark Christopher presides over court hearings whenever necessary. You can reach this office by contacting 940-684-1424. 

The sheriff’s Office enforces law guidelines across the whole county. It investigates crimes committed against citizens. The office is under Sheriff Mike Brown. Call the Office at (940) 684-1501. 

The County Clerk records deeds, marriages, and deaths. He keeps records of births, adoptions, and divorces. The office is under Debra HopkinsContact the Office at 940.684.1365. 

Tax Collector collects property tax payments from homeowners and pays them to the county treasurer each year. Mike Brown is in charge of the office. Contact him through mail at P.O Box 3264, Foard TX 75735. 

The Treasurer’s Office receives money collected by the Tax collector and then distributes funds accordingly. If a taxpayer forfeits paying his taxes, this can lead to legal action. Therefore, taxpayers must make sure they send the correct amount every time. It is under Darcy Moore. Contact the Office at 940-684-1818. 

The County Attorney’s office provides free legal advice to people who face criminal charges. People have no obligation to hire an attorney, but if they want one, they may contact the Office at 940-684-1443. The office is supervised by Marshall Capps. 

Conclusion 

In summary, Foard County has great things going on. There are opportunities available for young professionals looking to move forward into adulthood. With so much potential, why would anyone ever leave? You might ask yourself.  

Well, we hope you found our article helpful. Please share your thoughts or opinions about Foard County, Texas below!