Round Rock's rich pioneer history is set to take center stage with a new historical marker dedicated to Kenney Fort, announced Round Rock Preservation. The marker, which commemorates the first settlement in Williamson County, will be unveiled in a public celebration on June 6 at 6 p.m. Located near the site of the original fort in the Concord at Brushy Creek neighborhood, history buffs can find the new addition at 2351 Centennial Loop, a stone’s throw from where the early settlers once staked their claims.
Although a 1936 marker already exists on Palm Valley Blvd., created during the Texas Centennial, the upcoming installation rests closer to the historical site—just a ½ mile away from the original. While the older marker continues its vigil near what was the fort, the newer tribute offers a richer narrative of the pioneering spirit that once thrived there. In its time, Kenney Fort was not just a refuge, but a backdrop to significant Republic of Texas events, including the ill-fated Santa Fe Expedition and the dramatic Archives War involving the relocation of the capital's land records.
Founded in 1839 by Dr. Thomas Kenney and Joseph Barnhart, the fort once served as a safe haven for the area's early settlers. It's storied past, documented on the Round Rock's Planning and Development Services Department's website, highlights its role in Texas history. Notably, Kenney Fort served as the departure point for an expedition to Santa Fe, which ended unsuccessfully and temporarily hosted some of Texas's most critical documents during a Houston-Austin tug-of-war over the position of the state capital.
As Round Rock continues to grow and evolve, the new marker serves as an enduring testament to the region's frontier legacy. Residents and visitors alike are welcome to join the local community in honoring an integral piece of Texas's story. The installation aims to provide a closer look at the early Texan hustle and determination that shaped the landscape of Williamson County and the Lone Star State at large. For those interested in the deeper details of Kenney Fort's history, including the Santa Fe Expedition and the Archives War, further information is available on the city's official website.
