Canyon, City of

Site surveyed Christmas Day, 1887, by L. G. Conner, who also donated land for numerous civic improvements. Named for the colorful Palo Duro Canyon, 12 miles east. Despite a harsh environment characterized by snow, sandstorms, and grasshopper plaques, pioneer citizens pushed ahead. The first school, with 6 students, was organized in 1889. First telephone line was built in 1896, using barbed wire fence posts as poles. Church services were held from early days, with all groups worshipping in the courthouse. Arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad in 1898 also spurred town growth: In 1901, 1902, and 1908 Canyon is said to have shipped out more cattle than any other city in the world. Canyon incorporated 1906 at the urging of Jasper N. Haney, lawyer, who was elected first mayor. More strides were made when an electric power plant was built 1908. It first ran only in the evening, but later was on in the afternoon - for women to do the ironing. Canyon became an educational center in 1910 when West Texas State University was opened here. Since then, the two have advanced side by side. Canyon citizens initiated Buffalo Lake Conservation Project, dedicated 1939, and have contributed greatly to the development of the entire Panhandle region. (1968)

Canyon, City of is a historical marker in Canyon, Randall County, dedicated in 1968. It is one of 38 historical markers documented in Randall County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 49 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 34.9812, -101.9286 near Canyon. The nearest cataloged historic site is Smith Building (Palace Hotel) (historical marker), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Canyon News, First National Bank, and Randall County Courthouse.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5381000883. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.