What is the geographical location of Grimes County, Texas?

Grimes County is situated in southeastern Texas, United States. It is bordered by the Navasota and Brazos Rivers to the west, and its eastern areas are part of the San Jacinto River watershed.

When was Grimes County established, and from which existing county was it formed?

Grimes County was formed in 1846 from Montgomery County. This occurred one year after the Republic of Texas was annexed by the United States.

Who is Grimes County named after, and why is that person significant?

The county is named in honor of Jesse Grimes, who was a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and an early European-American settler in the area. His historical contributions are recognized through this naming.

What are the primary rivers that define the boundaries of Grimes County?

The Navasota River and the Brazos River form the western boundary of Grimes County. The eastern parts of the county are within the watershed of the San Jacinto River.

What indigenous peoples were present in the area that is now Grimes County during the historic period?

During the historic period, French and Spanish explorers encountered the Bidai Indians in the region. These indigenous groups faced significant population decline due to infectious diseases introduced by Europeans.

What was the pattern of European settlement in the Grimes County area during Spanish colonial rule?

During the century of Spanish colonial rule, there was very little settlement by Europeans or creole Spanish in the area that would become Grimes County. The region saw more significant European-American settlement after Mexico gained its independence and invited settlers from the United States.

What conditions did Mexico offer to settlers from the United States in eastern Texas?

After gaining independence, Mexico invited settlers from the United States to eastern Texas. These settlers were permitted to practice their own religion, provided they pledged loyalty to the Mexican government.

What historical significance does the town of Anderson hold regarding its buildings?

Anderson, the county seat, contains several historic buildings, including the Fanthorp Inn, that date back to the periods of Spanish rule, the Republic of Texas, and early statehood. This historical significance has led to the designation of the Anderson Historic District as a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

When did Anglo-American migration to the Grimes County area begin, and who were the primary settlers?

Anglo-American migration to the area that became Grimes County commenced in the 1820s when it was still part of Mexico. The early settlers were predominantly from the Southern United States, particularly Alabama.

What role did enslaved African Americans play in the early economy of Grimes County?

Many of the early Anglo-American settlers brought enslaved African Americans with them to work the land. Jared E. Groce, an early settler, established one of the first cotton plantations in Texas near present-day Hempstead, utilizing enslaved labor.

How did the population of Grimes County change between 1850 and 1860, particularly concerning enslaved individuals?

From 1850 to 1860, the White population in Grimes County steadily increased. However, the African American population, largely comprised of enslaved individuals brought by newcomers, increased at an even faster rate, tripling during that decade. By 1860, enslaved people constituted 53% of the county's population.

What was the economic focus of Grimes County in the late antebellum period?

In the late antebellum period, the fertile lowlands of Grimes County were primarily used for cotton plantations. Cotton and corn were cultivated as commodity crops.

What were the social conditions and White violence like in Grimes County immediately following the Civil War?

Following the emancipation of enslaved people, White residents experienced anxiety and struggled to adapt to a free labor market. This period saw an increase in White violence, with the Ku Klux Klan establishing a local chapter in 1868 to assert dominance. While Federal troops and the Freedman's Bureau were present, they were not entirely successful in protecting freedmen, though schools were established.

How did the White Man's Union influence politics in Grimes County?

The White Man's Union, formed to counter Populist and Republican alliances, violently took over elections in Grimes County starting in 1900 after killing Black Populist leaders. This organization controlled the selection of all county officials until 1958, effectively suppressing political opposition.

What was the extent of racial terrorism in Grimes County in the early 20th century?

In the early 20th century, White individuals committed nine lynchings of Black people in Grimes County. This was part of a broader pattern of racial terrorism aimed at suppressing the freedmen, making Grimes County one of the counties with the highest number of lynchings in Texas during that era.

How did the arrival of railroads impact the communities of Grimes County?

The Houston and Texas Central railroad extended into Grimes County in 1859. Anderson, the county seat, rejected the railroad and was bypassed, leading to the rise of Navasota, which soon surpassed Anderson in population and economic importance. Anderson eventually received a railroad in the early 1900s but never caught up to Navasota.

What factors contributed to the population decline in Grimes County during certain periods?

Grimes County experienced significant population decline from 1900 to 1920 and again from 1930 to 1980. These periods coincided with the Great Migration, when African Americans left the South to escape Jim Crow laws and disenfranchisement, seeking better opportunities. Rural Whites also left the region for industrial cities.

What were the main economic activities in Grimes County in the late 20th century?

Until the late 20th century, Grimes County remained largely rural and agricultural. While timber harvesting and processing were present, livestock raising and dairy farms became the dominant agricultural sectors, contributing 93% of agricultural revenues. Crop diversification also occurred.

What is the total area of Grimes County, and what percentage is covered by water?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Grimes County has a total area of 802 square miles (2,080 km²). Of this, approximately 1.8% (14 sq mi or 36 km²) is covered by water.

What was the population of Grimes County according to the 2020 census?

As of the 2020 census, the population of Grimes County was 29,268.

How has the racial and ethnic composition of Grimes County changed between 2000 and 2020?

Between 2000 and 2020, the percentage of White non-Hispanic residents decreased from 62.72% to 57.78%. The African American non-Hispanic population also decreased from 19.82% to 13.07%. Conversely, the Hispanic or Latino population increased from 16.08% to 25.15% of the total population.

What is the median age in Grimes County, and how does the male-to-female ratio compare?

The median age in Grimes County is 38 years. The county has a notable gender imbalance, with 117.50 males for every 100 females overall, and 124.00 males for every 100 females aged 18 and over.

What was the median household income in Grimes County as of the 2000 census?

In the year 2000, the median income for a household in Grimes County was $32,280, and the median income for a family was $38,008.

What percentage of Grimes County's population lived below the poverty line in 2000?

In 2000, approximately 13.8% of families and 16.6% of the total population in Grimes County were living below the poverty line. This included 20.4% of those under 18 and 18.1% of those aged 65 or older.

What is the primary governing body of Grimes County, and who heads it?

The Grimes County Commissioners Court serves as the primary decision-making body for the county government. This court is led by the county judge, who also oversees the day-to-day operations of the government.

Who is the current county judge of Grimes County, and when did they take office?

Joe Fauth III is the current county judge of Grimes County, having taken office in 2017.

What are the responsibilities of the county commissioners in Grimes County?

In Grimes County, the four county commissioners are responsible for road and bridge projects within their respective precincts, in addition to their policy-making duties as part of the Commissioners Court.

Who is the current sheriff of Grimes County, and how long have they served?

Donald G. Sowell is the current sheriff of Grimes County, holding the office since 1998.

What are the roles of the district attorney and county attorney in Grimes County?

The Grimes County district attorney is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases in the state district court. The county attorney, on the other hand, represents the county in legal matters.

Which Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facilities are located in Grimes County?

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice operates the O.L. Luther Unit and the Wallace Pack Unit within an unincorporated area of Grimes County. The Pack Warehouse is also located in an unincorporated area near the Pack Unit.

How has Grimes County voted in recent presidential elections, and what does this indicate about its political leaning?

Grimes County has shown a strong and increasing preference for Republican candidates in presidential elections since the mid-20th century. For example, in 2020, the Republican candidate received 75.98% of the vote, and in 2024, this increased to 79.69%, indicating a predominantly Republican political leaning.

What cities are officially recognized within Grimes County?

The cities within Grimes County include Anderson, which serves as the county seat, Bedias, Iola, Navasota, Plantersville, and Todd Mission.

What are the census-designated places (CDPs) located in Grimes County?

The census-designated places in Grimes County are Pinebrook, Richards, and Shiro.

Can you list some of the unincorporated communities found in Grimes County?

Unincorporated communities in Grimes County include Apolonia, Roans Prairie, and Stoneham. White Hall is also listed as an unincorporated community.

Which independent school districts serve the students of Grimes County?

The school districts serving Grimes County are Anderson-Shiro Consolidated Independent School District, Iola Independent School District, Madisonville Consolidated Independent School District, Navasota Independent School District, and Richards Independent School District.

What community college serves Grimes County?

Blinn College is designated as the community college serving all residents of Grimes County.

Is there any notable celebrity resident mentioned in Grimes County?

Yes, the actor Chuck Norris resides near Navasota, the largest city in Grimes County. He and his wife also operate a bottled-water production facility there.

What is the historical trend of population in Grimes County from 1850 to 1930?

Grimes County experienced significant population growth from 1850 (4,008) to 1900 (26,106), with a notable surge of 157.2% between 1850 and 1860. The population then saw a decline to 21,205 by 1910 and a slight increase to 22,642 by 1930.

What does the population data from 1950 to 1970 indicate about Grimes County?

From 1950 to 1970, Grimes County experienced a consistent population decline. The population dropped from 15,135 in 1950 to 11,855 in 1970, reflecting a decrease of over 3,000 residents during that period.

When did Grimes County begin to see population growth again after a period of decline?

After experiencing population losses from 1930 to 1980, Grimes County began to see an increase in population starting in the late 1970s. This trend continued, with the population estimated at 27,172 in 2014 and reaching 29,268 by the 2020 census.

What were the main agricultural products contributing to Grimes County's economy in the later 20th century?

In the later 20th century, livestock raising and dairy farms were the primary drivers of Grimes County's agricultural economy, accounting for 93% of its revenues. Crop diversification also played a role.

What is the significance of the Anderson Historic District?

The Anderson Historic District, located in the county seat, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to the presence of several historic buildings dating back to the Spanish colonial era, the Republic of Texas, and the early statehood period.

How did the political landscape of Grimes County shift from the early 20th century to the mid-20th century?

In the early 20th century, Grimes County was heavily dominated by the Democratic Party, as seen in elections like 1912 and 1936 where Democrats received over 90% of the vote. However, by the mid-20th century, the Republican Party began to gain traction, winning the presidential election in 1952 with 53.32% of the vote and continuing to win subsequent elections.

What role did the Freedman's Bureau play in Grimes County after the Civil War?

The Freedman's Bureau established an office in Grimes County after the Civil War. While not entirely successful in protecting freedmen, it played a role in establishing schools in the area for newly freed individuals.

What is the approximate population density of Grimes County based on the 2020 census?

Based on the 2020 census population of 29,268 and the land area of 787 square miles, the population density of Grimes County is approximately 37.2 people per square mile (14.4 people per square kilometer).

What are the main types of transportation infrastructure in Grimes County in the 21st century?

In the 21st century, State Highway 90 serves as the primary north-south thoroughfare in Grimes County, while State Highways 30 and 105 run east-west. Railroad restructuring in the late 20th century led to mergers, with Burlington Northern Santa Fe and Union Pacific being major railroads in the county.

What is the significance of Navasota in relation to Anderson in Grimes County's history?

Navasota became a more significant city than Anderson, the county seat, after the Houston and Texas Central railroad extended its line into the county in 1859. Anderson, having initially rejected the railroad, was bypassed, allowing Navasota to grow and surpass it in size.

What does the term 'NH' signify in the racial and ethnic composition tables for Grimes County?

In the context of the racial and ethnic composition tables for Grimes County, 'NH' stands for Non-Hispanic. This designation is used to differentiate between individuals who identify as Hispanic or Latino and those who do not, when categorizing racial groups.

What is the primary religion practiced in Grimes County?

Christianity is identified as the primary religion in Grimes County, with Hinduism being the second most prevalent.

Grimes County Texas Wiki: Grimes County: Texas Heritage Unveiled

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A Glimpse into History

Early Foundations

Grimes County's story begins with the indigenous Bidai people, encountered by early European explorers. Spanish colonial efforts saw limited settlement, but post-Mexican independence, U.S. settlers arrived, drawn by the fertile lands. Early pioneers like Jared E. Groce established cotton plantations, bringing enslaved African Americans, shaping the county's initial economic and social fabric.

Growth and Division

Organized in 1846 following Texas annexation, Grimes County experienced rapid population growth, particularly among enslaved people, by 1860. The antebellum period saw a reliance on cotton and corn cultivation. Post-Civil War, the county grappled with the transition to a free labor market, social unrest, and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, alongside efforts by the Freedman's Bureau to establish schools.

Political Strife and Migration

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by political tensions, including the violent takeover of elections by White Democrats and continued racial terrorism. Economic decline and social unrest contributed to population shifts. The Great Migration saw many African Americans leave the county seeking better opportunities, a trend mirrored by some rural Whites moving to industrial centers.

Modern Transformation

The arrival of railroads, notably bypassing the original seat Anderson in favor of Navasota, significantly altered the county's development. While timber harvesting played a role, agriculture, particularly livestock and dairy, remained central. The late 20th century saw population recovery and diversification, with new manufacturing and improved infrastructure contributing to growth in the 21st century.

Geographical Landscape

Area and Waterways

Grimes County encompasses a total area of approximately 802 square miles (2,080 km²), with 1.8% of this area covered by water. The county's western boundary is defined by the Navasota and Brazos Rivers, while its eastern regions are part of the San Jacinto River watershed, influencing its natural landscape and resources.

Transportation Networks

Key transportation arteries facilitate connectivity within and beyond Grimes County. Major state highways include State Highway 6, State Highway 30, State Highway 90, State Highway 105, and the Aggie Expressway (State Highway 249), providing essential routes for commerce and travel.

Neighboring Counties

Grimes County is strategically situated within southeastern Texas, bordered by several other counties. These include Madison County to the north, Walker County to the northeast, Montgomery County to the southeast, Waller County to the south, Washington County to the southwest, and Brazos County to the west.

Population and Demographics

Population Trends

Grimes County's population has seen fluctuations throughout its history, with significant growth in the 19th century, followed by periods of decline influenced by economic factors and the Great Migration. Recent decades show a resurgence, with the population reaching approximately 29,268 by the 2020 census, and an estimated 33,448 by 2024.

Historical Population
Year	Pop.	%±
1850	4,008	—
1860	10,307	157.2%
1870	13,218	28.2%
1880	18,603	40.7%
1890	21,312	14.6%
1900	26,106	22.5%
1910	21,205	−18.8%
1920	23,101	8.9%
1930	22,642	−2.0%
1940	21,960	−3.0%
1950	15,135	−31.1%
1960	12,709	−16.0%
1970	11,855	−6.7%
1980	13,580	14.6%
1990	18,828	38.6%
2000	23,552	25.1%
2010	26,604	13.0%
2020	29,268	10.0%
2024 (est.)	33,448	14.3%

Ethnic Composition

The demographic makeup of Grimes County reflects a diverse population. As of 2020, the county is predominantly White (57.78% non-Hispanic), with significant Hispanic or Latino representation (25.15%) and a notable African American population (13.07%). These figures highlight the evolving cultural landscape of the region.

Racial and ethnic composition (2020)
Race / Ethnicity (NH = Non-Hispanic)	% 2020
White alone (NH)	57.78%
Black or African American alone (NH)	13.07%
Native American or Alaska Native alone (NH)	0.29%
Asian alone (NH)	0.35%
Pacific Islander alone (NH)	0.03%
Other race alone (NH)	0.29%
Multiracial (NH)	3.05%
Hispanic or Latino (any race)	25.15%
Total	100.00%

Socioeconomic Profile

The median household income in Grimes County was approximately $32,280 in 2000, with a per capita income of $14,368. These figures indicate a predominantly rural economy. Approximately 13.8% of families and 16.6% of the population lived below the poverty line during that period.

Governance and Infrastructure

County Administration

The Grimes County government is structured around the Commissioners Court, led by the County Judge, who oversees daily operations. Key elected officials include the Sheriff, District Attorney, County Attorney, District Clerk, County Clerk, County Treasurer, Tax Assessor-Collector, County Court-at-Law Judge, Justices of the Peace, and Constables, ensuring comprehensive local governance.

Correctional Facilities

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice operates significant facilities within Grimes County. The O.L. Luther Unit and the Wallace Pack Unit are located in unincorporated areas, underscoring the county's role in the state's correctional system infrastructure.

Electoral Landscape

Historically, Grimes County has shown a strong tendency towards the Democratic Party, particularly in the early to mid-20th century. However, a significant political shift occurred, with the Republican Party gaining dominance from the mid-1950s onwards. This trend is evident in presidential election results, where Republicans have consistently secured a majority in recent decades.

Presidential Election Results in Grimes County, Texas
Year	Republican (%)	Democratic (%)	Third Party (%)
1912	3.33%	89.45%	7.22%
1936	6.84%	93.06%	0.10%
1968	30.52%	41.79%	27.69%
1984	58.50%	41.20%	0.30%
2000	61.70%	36.02%	2.28%
2012	71.40%	27.19%	1.41%
2020	75.98%	22.82%	1.20%

Educational Institutions

School Districts

Primary and secondary education in Grimes County is served by several independent school districts, including Anderson-Shiro Consolidated ISD, Iola ISD, Madisonville Consolidated ISD, Navasota ISD, and Richards ISD, catering to the diverse educational needs of the county's youth.

Higher Education

For post-secondary education, Blinn College serves as the designated community college for Grimes County, providing accessible higher learning opportunities and vocational training to residents, contributing to workforce development and lifelong learning.

Community Hubs

Incorporated Cities

The county seat of Anderson anchors the administrative functions, while Navasota serves as the largest city, a hub for commerce and community life. Other incorporated cities include Bedias, Iola, Plantersville, and Todd Mission, each contributing to the county's unique character.

Census-Designated Places

Beyond official cities, Grimes County includes several Census-Designated Places (CDPs) and unincorporated communities. These areas, such as Pinebrook, Richards, Shiro, Apolonia, Roans Prairie, and Stoneham, represent the dispersed settlement patterns characteristic of rural Texas.

Notable Residents

Chuck Norris

The renowned actor and martial artist, Chuck Norris, resides near Navasota. His presence in Grimes County highlights the area's appeal as a home for public figures, contributing to local recognition and economic activity through ventures like his bottled-water facility.

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References

Grimes County from the Handbook of Texas Online

Texas Education Code Sec. 130.168. BLINN JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT SERVICE AREA.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Grimes County, Texas Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding Texas history, geography, or local governance. Always refer to official county resources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Grimes County: Texas Heritage Unveiled

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Glimpse into History 📜

🧭 Early Foundations

📈 Growth and Division

✊ Political Strife and Migration

🛤️ Modern Transformation

Geographical Landscape 🗺️

📏 Area and Waterways

🛣️ Transportation Networks

📍 Neighboring Counties

Population and Demographics 👥

📊 Population Trends

🧑🏾‍🤝‍🧑🏻 Ethnic Composition

💰 Socioeconomic Profile

Governance and Infrastructure ⚖️

🏛️ County Administration

🔒 Correctional Facilities

🗳️ Electoral Landscape

Educational Institutions 🎓

🏫 School Districts

🎓 Higher Education

Community Hubs 🏘️

🏙️ Incorporated Cities

📍 Census-Designated Places

Notable Residents ⭐

🎬 Chuck Norris

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📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Glimpse into History

Early Foundations

Growth and Division

Political Strife and Migration

Modern Transformation

Geographical Landscape

Area and Waterways

Transportation Networks

Neighboring Counties

Population and Demographics

Population Trends

Ethnic Composition

Socioeconomic Profile

Governance and Infrastructure

County Administration

Correctional Facilities

Electoral Landscape

Educational Institutions

School Districts

Higher Education

Community Hubs

Incorporated Cities

Census-Designated Places

Notable Residents

Chuck Norris

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice