Railroads were a vital cog for the development of Victoria. In order to reduce the overland cost of products to the western markets, a line was opened in 1861 between the ports in Calhoun County and Victoria. Entrepreneur, Jessie Obadiah Wheeler, financed the construction of this rail line out of his personal funds. The ensuing Civil War brought an end to the line’s operation, and it was not until after the conflict the railroad became functional again. By 1873, Victoria and Cuero were linked by rail. Subsequently, tracks were extended westward.
