Richard Carter Park

Richard Carter Park is a historically significant site located in College Station, Texas. The park encompasses the homestead of Richard Carter, who is regarded as the first white settler in the area now known as College Station. Carter, a veteran of the War of 1812, received a land grant from Stephen F. Austin in 1831, which became the foundation for the current city.

The park features an interpretive center with displays about Richard Carter and the early history of the region. Visitors can learn about the reconstruction of the original water well, which played a crucial role in the settlement's development. The park also includes a discovery garden area showcasing indigenous plants, providing insight into the local flora.

A notable feature of the park is a bronze statue created by artist Albert Pedulla, installed in 1986. This sculpture symbolizes Richard Carter's act of staking his claim, which led to the settlement of College Station and the Brazos Valley. The park's development was officially recognized as a Texas Sesquicentennial Project.

In 1991, the graves of Richard Carter, his wife, and family members were relocated from an adjacent site to within the park boundaries, further emphasizing its historical significance. The park also contains a historical marker, offering additional information about the site's importance to local history.

Richard Carter Park serves as an educational resource, providing visitors with a glimpse into the early days of College Station's settlement and the life of its first settlers. It offers a peaceful setting for reflection on the area's history and the changes that have occurred since Carter's time.