Region: Prairies and Lakes
The town's history can be traced back to the early 1500s, when Spanish
explorers established missions in the area. Native Americans battled the Spanish
settlers and forced them to vacate the area in 1750s. By the 1800s, Kiowa and
Comanche tribes roamed freely. In 1860, Chief Peta Nocona and his Comanche
warriors waged a fierce three-day battle against a group of Texas Rangers led by
Capt. Sul Ross along the Pease River. A town founded in the area in 1887 and
incorporated in 1891 was named for Nocona.
Today, the city is known for its history of producing quality leather goods,
from signature cowboy boots to baseball and softball gloves. Recent
revitalization efforts are seen in its growing downtown and improved rodeo
facilities. The city also has two parks and two 18-hole golf
courses.