Naturally, unemployment increased in town and whites attempted to oust Mexicans who were hired during the World War I boom.

Masked men ravaged shacks used by Mexicans as living quarters.

Whites threatened Mexicans' lives, and fearful, they fled to nearby Fort Worth to seek help from the Mexican Consulate, since local authorities took the side of the Anglo locals.

[7] In 1928, the current courthouse was erected, the prior cornerstone was opened, and "Old Rip" was allegedly found alive.

It died in 1929 of pneumonia, and was placed in a glass-front casket on view in the present courthouse.

[8] Eastland is located north of the center of Eastland County 96 miles (154 km) west-southwest of Fort Worth and 55 miles (89 km) east of Abilene.

[1] The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.