Hooks Abstract Company
Kountze, Hardin County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Established in 1902, the Hooks Abstract Company is thought to be the oldest continuously operating business in Hardin County. Named for its major investor J. B. Hooks, the company initially provided land ownership research for oil and timber companies. Co-founder Amos Rich operated the company until 1906 when J. A. McKim, Sr., assumed management of the firm. In the 1950s title insurance services were added by J. A. McKim, Jr., and his wife, who purchased the business in the 1960s. Their son succeeded them, changing the name of the firm to Hooks Title and Abstract Co.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Founded in 1902 and named for its chief investor J.B. Hooks, this firm is thought to be Hardin County's oldest continuously operating business. It began by researching land titles for the oil and timber companies then carving up the Big Thicket country, later adding title insurance in the 1950s under the McKim family, who ran it across three generations. The name eventually became Hooks Title and Abstract Co.
Why it matters
The company's ledgers trace the land dealings that turned the East Texas timber and oil boom into settled ownership and industry.
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Related people
- · J.B. Hooks
- · Amos Rich
- · J.A. McKim
Themes & tags
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