Erath

Erath County

Updated on: November 17, 2021
Coordinates
32° 13' 48" N, 98° 13' 12" W (32.23, -98.22)
State
Texas
Region
North Central
County Seat:
Stephenville
Year Organized:
1856
Total Square Miles:
1089.807
Population:
41969 (2017)
Persons/Square Mile:
39
Erath County Website
http://co.erath.tx.us/

Contiguous Counties

Palo Pinto (N)
Hood (NE)
Somervell (E)
Bosque (SE)
Hamilton (S)
Comanche (SW)
Eastland (W)

County structure

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

Demographics

2018 Population:
41969
25 to 64 Years of Age:
44.11%
65 Years of Age and Older:
14.17%

Economy, 2018

Gross Domestic Product (GDP):
$1.6 B
Labor Force:
20,784
Unemployment Rate:
3.10%

County Contact

100 Graham Street
County Courthouse
Stephenville, TX

http://www.co.erath.tx.us

The county seat of Erath, Texas, is Stephenville. The county was named after one of the original surveyors named George B. Erath. 

It is a part of the Beaumont-Port Arthur metropolitan area and includes all or parts of Port Neches, Orange Beach, Vidor, Pearman, La Grange, Groves, and Navasota. 

The county is famous for being the CowBoy Capital of the World. 

History of Erath County Texas 

The county’s name comes from one of the first settlers to arrive there: George B. Erath. As an infant, he came with his family on the board of the ship “Eagle,” which arrived at Galveston Bay in 1837. In 1840 they settled near present-day Orange Beach, where they built their home. 

After that time, he became a good surveyor who could find water holes by looking into the ground.  

In 1850, the Republic of Texas formed out of Mexico’s former territory. At this point, it had only three counties; Jefferson, Liberty, and Polk. On March 2nd, 1861, Erath County was created when Polk County split off from Jefferson County. 

This happened because many people were moving westward toward the Indian Territory. They wanted more land than what was available in Polk County.  

Early settlers were the German immigrants who moved here during the mid-1800s. Many of them worked in lumber mills along the Sabine River. There are also some French families living in the northern portion of the county. 

These early pioneers lived in log cabins made of wood and mud bricks. The county’s name comes from one of the first settlers to arrive there: George B. Later, these homes would be replaced by brick houses. During the Civil War, the Union Army occupied much of the southern half of the county. 

Is Erath County Safe? 

Safety in Erath County depends upon your safety habits. If you follow common precautions, then you should have no problems while traveling through the county. However, if you do not take proper care of yourself, then you may encounter danger. 

For example, if you drive too fast, then you might cause accidents. You must always wear your seat belt whenever possible. Also, never drink alcohol before driving. This can lead to dangerous situations. Always obey traffic laws and speed limits. 

Never use drugs or illegal substances such as marijuana or cocaine. They will impair your judgment and make you careless. When walking around town, stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Do not walk alone late at night. 

Avoid areas where crime occurs frequently. Stay away from isolated places like parks and abandoned buildings. Use caution when visiting unfamiliar neighborhoods. 

Keep valuables hidden so thieves cannot steal them. Finally, avoid hitchhiking. Hitchhikers often get picked up by criminals. Instead, call someone to pick you up instead. 

What Attractions Are in Erath County? 

Some of the attractions in this county offer relaxing options for residents of the county. These include 

Bluff Dale Vineyards & Winery: Located just outside Orange Beach, Bluff Dale is a winery located next door to the Gulf Coast National Seashore. It offers tours and tastings throughout the year. 

Cedar Creek State Park: Cedar Creek State Park has camping facilities and hiking trails. Visitors enjoy fishing on Lake Texoma. 

Cedar Bayou Nature Center: A nature center with exhibits about local wildlife. 

Gulf Shores: Located near the mouth of the Alabama River, Gulf Shores is home to several beaches, including Fort Morgan beach, which features an amusement park.  

Stephenville City Park: Stephenville city park includes playground equipment, picnic tables, tennis courts, basketball court, baseball field, softball fields, horseshoe pits, volleyball nets, swimming pool, and restrooms. 

Ben Hogan Museum: Ben Hogan museum was built in honor of golf legend Ben Hogan. He won many tournaments and championships throughout his career. His house still stands today, and it serves as a museum that showcases his life and accomplishments. 

Bosque river trail: Bosque river trail runs along the banks of the Red River. There are numerous activities available here, including biking, jogging, bird watching, kayaking, canoeing, picnicking, and more. 

Economic Activities in Erath County 

Some of the economic activities in this county include tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, retail trade, construction, real estate services, professional, business services, education, health care, social help, arts/entertainment, accommodation, and foodservice industries. 

The business area is a substantial source of income for people living in Erath county. Additionally, the county government supports businesses through various programs. For instance, they provide loans to small businesses. They also help companies expand their operations. 

The county provides grants to individuals who want to start new businesses. In addition, there are tax incentives offered to encourage investment into the economy. 

Education in Erath County 

There are two types of schools in Erath county. Some students attend public school while others go to private schools. Public Schools in Erath county include Eagle Point Elementary School, Harmony Middle School, and Southside High School. 

Private Schools in Erath county Include St. John’s Catholic Academy, Trinity Christian Academy, First Baptist Church Of Glen Rose, And New Hope Baptist Church. 

Universities in Erath County include Tarleton State University and Ranger college. Once students complete their studies at these universities, they can receive bachelor’s degrees or master’s degrees. 

Students may choose from different majors depending on what interests them most. 

County Government Offices 

The county judge’s office is headed by Alfonso Campos, who oversees all aspects of the judicial system within the county. You can contact the office at 254-965-1452. 

The county clerk’s office handles documents related to marriage licenses, birth certificates, death certificates, etc. The phone number is 254-965-1482. 

Tax Assessor-Collector collects property taxes on behalf of the state. This person will answer questions about how much you owe in back taxes. If you have any problems with your assessment, call the assessor-collector at 254-965-8630. 

The County Treasurer handles funds collected by the Tax Collector. The officer in charge is Kimberly Barrier. Contact her if you need information regarding payments made towards fines, court costs, restitution fees, etc. Phone Number: 254-965-1483. 

The sheriff’s office has jurisdiction over criminal matters. It is under Matt Coates. Call the office at 254-965-3338. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Erath County, Texas, is a good county for those looking for a place to live because it offers many opportunities that other counties do not offer. It is near major cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston, making life easier for residents.   

There are several jobs available in the county. Also, the weather is very nice during the summer months, making it an ideal time to visit the county.