Marathon

Fort Pena Colorada, the last active fort in this area, on the old Comanche Trail, about 4 miles to the southwest was established in 1879. Marathon was founded in 1881. Named by an old sea captain, A.E. Shepard, for the Plain of Marathon, in Greece, of which the hills here reminded him. Cradle of West Texas cattle industry. Among the first noted ranchers here were Mayer M. Halff and brother, owners of the famous Circle Dot brand. Original gateway to the Big Bend National Park. (1964)

Marathon is a historical marker in Marathon, Brewster County, dedicated in 1964. It is one of 30 historical markers documented in Brewster County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 45 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 30.2131, -103.2301 near Marathon. The nearest cataloged historic site is Chambers Hotel (historical marker), about 1.0 miles away. Others within a short drive include Albion E. Shepard House, First School House, and Colonel Lewis Given Harman.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5043003201. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.