COUNTY ORGANIZED: 1848

COUNTY NAMED FOR: Ewen Cameron of the Texas Revolution and the infamous Black Bean Affair of the Meir Expedition. Cameron was shot by Santa Anna on the way to Mexico in 1843.

COUNTY SEATS: One - Brownsville

COUNTY SEAT NAMED FOR:  Brownsville is named for Maj. Jacob Brown who died while defending the fort in the early days of the Mexican War.

COURTHOUSES: Three - 1883, 1912, and 1978.

STANDING:  Three-

• The 1883 courthouse has served as a Masonic Lodge since 1914. The original cupola and other roof elements were destroyed by a 1933 hurricane. 
• The 1912 courthouse is a Texas Renaissance structure with Classical Revival elements.
• The 1978 building is a contemporary design made of concrete.

1883 Courthouse
Original Configuration