Texas Porch

County Origins

The County Is Named for a Man Who Didn't Brand His Cattle

Maverick County was created in 1856 and named for Samuel A. Maverick, a Texas land owner whose unbranded cattle gave the English language a new word.

Maverick County History & Culture

The Texas legislature created Maverick County in 1856. It was carved out of Kinney County. The county was named for Samuel A. Maverick, a San Antonio landowner and politician. He was known for not branding his cattle.

That habit gave English a new word. Today 'maverick' means an independent person who does not follow the crowd.

The county was not officially organized until September 4, 1871. Eagle Pass became the county seat. The county covers 1,287 square miles of the Rio Grande plain. The land ranges from flat to gently rolling. Common plants include mesquite, live oak, and prickly pear cactus.

Source to confirm: TSHA Handbook — Maverick County

More Maverick County notes

Property Tax

How Property Taxes Work in Maverick County

One office appraises your property and a separate office collects taxes — knowing both saves confusion.

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Tax Savings

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill

If you own and live in your home, you can file for a homestead exemption to reduce the taxable value.

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Mineral Rights

Surface and Mineral Rights Can Be Owned Separately

Buying land here does not always mean you own what is underground — mineral rights are often held by someone else.

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Flood Hazard

The Rio Grande Can Flood — Know Your Risk

Properties near the Rio Grande in Eagle Pass face real flood risk, and a flood map can show whether your land is in a hazard zone.

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