Discover Marquez: Local History and Lake Limestone

Marquez offers two distinct starting points for planning your trip: the history of the railroad town and the waterside scenery of Lake Limestone. While early railroad history and community buildings draw attention to the town itself, the lake is a place for fishing, primitive camping, and using a boat ramp. Which side you plan to explore first depends on whether you are more interested in local history or activities on the water.

Local History and Former Community Buildings

Marquez was established in 1871 as a station on the International-Great Northern Railroad; a post office opened in 1872. These two dates place the town’s railroad and postal history in its early development. The Old Bowling School and Masonic Lodge was built as early as around 1860: settlers constructed the building, which later served as a meeting place for the community. Its history therefore predates the establishment of the railroad station, while its use as a meeting place describes another function of the building.

Other historic buildings also served multiple purposes. Built in the 1880s, the Long Hollow Community schoolhouse served as a community center and a church. The one-room Shilo Church, in turn, was also used as a schoolhouse during Marquez’s early years. The examples differ in their uses: at Long Hollow, the schoolhouse served as both a community center and a church; Shilo Church additionally served as a schoolhouse. Leon Academy, a private school, opened in Marquez in 1902 and had 166 students. These various institutions give the town’s history an educational and community dimension, without implying that their functions at the time were the same.

To reach the Old Bowling School and Masonic Lodge, travel east from Marquez on State Highway 7 for about 3.8 miles to FM 1147, then head south for about 3 miles. Check road conditions before setting out. Nearby Grayson Cemetery has a separate access requirement: it is on private property, and you need permission to visit.

Lake Limestone: Fishing and Access Points

Sterling C. Robertson Dam is about seven miles northwest of Marquez. It impounded the Navasota River, a tributary of the Brazos River, thereby forming Lake Limestone. This distinguishes the geographic features: the dam impounds the river, and the resulting reservoir is called Lake Limestone.

Near Marquez, black bass fishing is available at Lake Limestone year-round; spring is considered the best season for good catches of large specimens. For seasonal planning, this means fishing is not limited to spring, although this season is especially highlighted for large catches. Rules and conditions can change; check the current regulations before fishing.

Lake Limestone also has different access points for activities on the water. Nearby Lake Limestone Public Use Area #5 covers 10 acres for primitive camping. Nearby Leon County Park is on the east shore of the lake along FM 39 and has a two-lane boat ramp. The two locations therefore suit different plans: camping in the designated area or using a boat ramp. Check current information about facilities and operations before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Buffalo, Jewett.

Return to the broader travel overview: Leon.