Our history can be traced back as far as the early 1500's, when Spanish explorers established missions in their effort to secure a foothold in a bold new country.
   In 1758, Spanish domination northward ended with a battle between the French-assisted Taovayas, a Wichita sub-tribe, and a Spanish contingent of 600 troops. The Spanish were soundly defeated and retreated to San Antonio. The site of this battle is present-day Spanish Fort, located a few miles north of Nocona.
   By 1836, the year of the Texas Revolution, Nocona was a wilderness paradise where the Comanche and Kiowa tribes roamed freely.
   Things again got exciting in 1860. Chief Peta Nocona led a Comanche band of warriors against a company of Texas Rangers led by Capt. Sul Ross. The fiercely fought battle raged for three days along the Pease River.
   Nocona was named for this wise and valiant warrior. Chief Peta Nocona was the husband of Cynthia Ann Parker, a noted historic figure of the West herself. Chief Nocona was also the father of Quanah Parker. Nocona became known as an ideal stopping point on the cattle trails that came through. The area was a pleasant layover for the millions of hardy Longhorn cattle and their cowboy caretakers on the long and perilous journey to northern markets.
   North of Nocona, the Red River Station was a nexus for the Chihuahua Trail of 1839, the Old California Trail, the Butterfield Overland Mail Route and the Chisholm Trail of 1867-1887. All of these trails passed through northern Montague County and crossed the Red River into Oklahoma Territory.
   Founded in 1887 and incorporated in 1891, Nocona's roots are set in an interesting and lively mix of pioneers, Native Americans, cowboys and cattle kings. This cast of characters created a community that still prides itself on its entrepreneurial spirit.