Floyd County is a county situated in the Panhandle of Texas, with its county seat located in the city of Floydada. This county has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. Here are seven interesting facts about Floyd County in Texas history that you may not have known.

1. Floyd County was named after one of Texas' youngest heroes. Floyd County was named after a Texas Ranger named Charles Floyd. He was known for his bravery during the Battle of Walker Creek, where he saved the lives of several other Rangers and fought off a group of Indians. Unfortunately, Floyd was killed in an ambush in 1878, but his heroism inspired his fellow Texans, and the county was named after him.

2. Floyd County was one of the few counties in Texas to experience an oil boom. In the 1920s, an oil boom struck Floyd County, leading to a period of economic growth and prosperity. The discovery of oil brought new businesses, schools, and homes to the area, and many locals became wealthy from the oil industry.

3. Floyd County played a significant role in the World War II effort. During World War II, Floyd County was home to an airbase that trained military pilots. The base was known as the South Plains Army Airfield and was located just outside of the city of Lockney. Thousands of pilots trained at the airfield during the war, and it played a critical role in the victory over the Axis powers.

4. Floyd County was at the center of a major civil rights lawsuit. In the 1960s, Floyd County was the site of a lawsuit called Hernández v. Texas. The case was brought by a Mexican-American man named Pete Hernández, who was convicted of murder by an all-white jury. The lawsuit argued that Mexican-Americans were being systematically excluded from juries in Texas, leading to unfair trials. The case eventually went to the Supreme Court, which ruled that all citizens, regardless of race, were entitled to an impartial jury.

5. Floydada is home to a unique annual event. Every year, the city of Floydada hosts the Punkin Day Festival, a celebration that includes a pumpkin weigh-off, pumpkin carving contests, and pumpkin-themed food and drinks. The festival attracts visitors from all over the world and has become an important part of Floyd County's cultural heritage.

6. Floyd County was hit hard by the Dust Bowl. In the 1930s, a severe drought hit the Great Plains, leading to a period of extreme dust storms and crop failures. Floyd County was one of the areas hardest hit by the Dust Bowl, with many farmers losing everything they owned. The economic downturn caused by the Dust Bowl lasted for years and led to widespread poverty and unemployment in the area.

7. Floyd County has a rich agricultural tradition. Despite the challenges of the Dust Bowl and other setbacks, Floyd County has remained an important agricultural region throughout its history. Today, the county is home to many family farms and ranches that produce cotton, wheat, sorghum, and other crops. Agriculture remains a vital part of the county's economy and way of life.

In conclusion, Floyd County has a rich and varied history that has helped shape Texas as we know it today. From oil booms and civil rights battles to pumpkin festivals and agricultural traditions, this county has a unique story to tell. Whether you're a native Texan or a curious visitor, Floyd County is a fascinating place to explore and learn about.