About Stonewall County
Stonewall County, Texas, is a rural county located in the Rolling Plains region of West Texas, approximately 200 miles west of Fort Worth. Established in 1876 and organized in 1888, Stonewall County was named after Confederate General Thomas J. 'Stonewall' Jackson. Stonewall County Seat is Aspermont, a small town that is the governmental and commercial center. Stonewall County covers approximately 920 square miles and has a population of fewer than 1,500 residents, making it one of the least populated counties in Texas.
Stonewall County is characterized by rolling prairies, mesquite-covered terrain, and agricultural land primarily used for cattle ranching and wheat farming. The Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River flows through Stonewall County, providing important water resources. Stonewall County Courthouse, located at 316 West Main Street in Aspermont, is a historic structure that houses the County Clerk, County Judge, and other administrative offices.
Stonewall County Clerk maintains vital records, court documents, and property records. Stonewall County Appraisal District, located at 402 Broadway in Aspermont, handles property tax assessments and maintains tax rolls. Stonewall County's sparse population and vast ranching heritage make it a quintessential example of rural West Texas, where agricultural traditions remain central to the local economy and culture.
Stonewall County is known for its Old Settlers Reunion, an annual event that has been held since 1900, making it one of the oldest continuous celebrations in Texas.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Stonewall County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order throughout Stonewall County. This office patrols the unincorporated areas, manages Stonewall County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is integral in making sure of public safety and works closely with other local law enforcement agencies to address crime and community concerns. The office may also run specific programs meant to crime prevention and community engagement, reflecting its commitment to serving the residents of Stonewall County.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Stonewall County is primarily provided by Stonewall County Sheriff's Office, which handles the unincorporated areas and overall county jurisdiction. The Aspermont Police Department serves the city of Aspermont, focusing on municipal law enforcement and community policing. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and public safety initiatives, making sure of full coverage and response throughout Stonewall County. Coordination between the Sheriff's Office and municipal police is crucial for effective law enforcement and crime prevention strategies.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Stonewall County is primarily provided by Stonewall County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at Stonewall County Courthouse, 316 West Main Street, Aspermont, TX 79502. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at and is responsible for patrol operations, criminal investigations, civil process service, and operation of Stonewall County detention facility. Stonewall County Jail is a small facility located adjacent to the courthouse that houses inmates awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences.
- Processing fees may apply for copies of reports.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally available through direct request to the Sheriff's Office, though they are not posted online.
Inmate information can be obtained by calling the Sheriff's Office directly during business hours, as Stonewall County does not maintain an online inmate roster due to its small size and limited detainee population. Aspermont, Stonewall County Seat, does not maintain a separate municipal police department; law enforcement services are consolidated under the Sheriff's Office. The City of Aspermont contracts with the Sheriff for police services within city limits.
Arrest records in Stonewall County are public information under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552), and citizens may request arrest records, incident reports, and booking information by submitting a written or in-person request to the Sheriff's Office. Due to Stonewall County's small population and low crime rate, arrest records are maintained in traditional paper format with limited digital access. Response times for public information requests are typically governed by Texas Government Code Section 552.221, which requires agencies to promptly produce records or seek an Attorney General opinion if withholding information.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Stonewall County includes various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Stonewall County Sheriff's Office is a key custodian of these records, while the Texas Department of Public Safety provides broader access to statewide criminal history information. Residents can request background checks through the Texas Department of Public Safety, which offers online services for convenience.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Stonewall County are maintained by Stonewall County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and personal information of the individual arrested. Residents and attorneys can request access to arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly, often requiring a formal request under the Texas Public Information Act. Arrest records provide crucial information for legal proceedings and background checks, detailing the nature of the alleged offenses and the circumstances of the arrest.
Jail & Inmate Records
Stonewall County Jail, located in Aspermont, is the primary detention facility for Stonewall County. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestees. Inmate information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, which may provide an online lookup tool for recent arrests and current inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, typically requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to strict guidelines.
- The bond and bail process follows Texas state law, allowing for the release of individuals pending trial upon payment or posting of bail, which can be arranged through local bail bond agents.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Stonewall County are taken and retained by Stonewall County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, either directly or via an online portal if available. Texas does not have specific mugshot removal laws, meaning that once a mugshot is part of the public record, it may remain accessible unless legally expunged. Individuals seeking to remove or restrict access to their mugshots typically need to pursue legal avenues for expungement or sealing of records.
Courts & Case Records
Stonewall County is served by the 39th Judicial District Court, which has jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil cases involving amounts over $200, divorce and family law matters, and juvenile cases. Stonewall County Court sits in Aspermont at Stonewall County Courthouse, 316 West Main Street, Aspermont, TX 79502, and shares jurisdiction with surrounding counties.
- Stonewall County also has a Justice of the Peace Court (Precinct 1) that handles small claims cases up to $20,000, Class C misdemeanors including traffic violations, inquests, and eviction proceedings.
- To search court records, individuals must visit the appropriate clerk's office in person or submit a written request.
- Stonewall County and District Clerk offices charge statutory fees for certified copies ($1 for the first page, $0.50 for additional pages per Texas Local Government Code Section 118.011).
- All court filings must be submitted in person or by mail, and case information requests are processed manually by clerk staff during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Court dates and docket information can be obtained by contacting the District Clerk for Stonewall County Court at Law, presided over by the County Judge, handles misdemeanor criminal cases, probate matters, and county administrative functions. Stonewall County Clerk, located at the courthouse and reachable, maintains records for the Constitutional County Court. Court records in Stonewall County are public under Texas Government Code Chapter 552 and Texas Rule of Judicial Administration 12, though access to certain records such as juvenile cases and sealed documents is restricted.
Due to Stonewall County's small size and limited budget, Stonewall County does not offer online case lookup or e-filing systems.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records in Stonewall County are maintained by the County Clerk's Office, which serves as Stonewall County's official recorder of deeds. Located at 316 West Main Street, Aspermont, TX 79502, the County Clerk can be reached for The office maintains and indexes all recorded documents affecting real property in Stonewall County, including warranty deeds, special warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgages, mechanic's liens, property tax liens, oil and gas leases, easements, right-of-way agreements, and subdivision plat maps.
- Recording fees are established by Texas Local Government Code Section 118.011 and include $5 for the first page and $4 for each additional page.
- Certified copies of recorded documents can be obtained from the County Clerk for a fee of $1 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, plus $5 for the certification.
- Researchers must visit the County Clerk's office in person during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) or submit written requests by mail.
- Property tax payments are processed by Stonewall County Tax Assessor-Collector, also located at the courthouse, phone.
These records are public under Texas Government Code Chapter 552 and Texas Property Code Section 11.001. Property tax records are maintained separately by Stonewall County Appraisal District, located at 402 Broadway, Aspermont, TX 79502, phone. The Appraisal District maintains current and historical property valuations, ownership records, exemption information, and tax account status.
Stonewall County does not currently offer an online property records search system or GIS mapping interface due to limited county resources and the small volume of recording activity. The Clerk's staff can assist with index searches and document retrieval.
Vital Records
Vital records for Stonewall County are managed through both local and state offices under the Texas Health and Safety Code, Title 3, Chapter 191 (Vital Statistics). Birth and death certificates for events occurring in Stonewall County can be requested from Stonewall County Clerk's Office at 316 West Main Street, Aspermont, TX 79502, phone. Stonewall County Clerk maintains local copies of vital records and can issue certified copies for births and deaths that occurred within Stonewall County.
- The fee for a certified birth or death certificate is $23 for the first copy and $22 for each additional copy of the same record when ordered at the same time.
- Processing time is typically immediate if requested in person, or 2-3 weeks if requested by mail.
- For full statewide access or for records from other Texas counties, individuals may also request vital records from the Texas Department of State Health Services Vital Statistics Unit, P.O.
- The marriage license fee is $82, or $22 if both parties complete a premarital education course.
- Requesters should be prepared to provide the full names of both parties, the approximate date of the event, and their relationship to the parties on the record.
Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Texas law. Birth records are restricted for 75 years and death records for 25 years to protect privacy. Box 12040, Austin, TX 78711-2040, or online through the state's authorized vendor at www.dshs.texas.gov/vs.
Marriage licenses are issued by Stonewall County Clerk, and the office maintains marriage records for ceremonies performed in Stonewall County. Divorce records (decrees) are maintained by the District Clerk's Office for divorces granted by Stonewall County court. No online ordering system is currently available for Stonewall County vital records; all requests must be made in person or by mail with appropriate identification and payment.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Stonewall County are accessible through multiple offices depending on the type of business activity. Stonewall County Clerk's Office at 316 West Main Street, Aspermont, TX 79502, phone, maintains records of assumed name certificates (DBA - doing business as) and fictitious name filings for businesses operating in Stonewall County under names other than the owner's legal name, as required by Texas Business & Commerce Code Chapter 71. The filing fee for an assumed name certificate is $17.
- This free searchable database provides information on entity names, registered agents, formation dates, status, and filed documents.
For full information on corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and other formal business entities, the Texas Secretary of State maintains the statewide business entity database accessible online at www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml. Professional and occupational licenses in Texas are generally issued by state-level boards rather than county offices; the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees many professions and can be searched at www.tdlr.texas.gov. Sales tax permits are issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and can be verified through the Comptroller's website.
Building permits, zoning approvals, and development applications in unincorporated areas of Stonewall County are handled by county officials, though Stonewall County has minimal zoning regulations given its rural character. The City of Aspermont maintains its own building permit and business license requirements for commercial activities within city limits; contact Aspermont City Hall for The Aspermont Chamber of Commerce and area business organizations provide networking and economic information for Stonewall County, though formal chamber services may be limited. For agricultural business information and support, Stonewall County Extension Office, part of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, is located at 316 West Main Street, Aspermont, and can be reached at.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Stonewall County are administered by Stonewall County Elections Administrator, operating under the authority of the County Clerk's Office, located at 316 West Main Street, Aspermont, TX 79502. Stonewall County Clerk serves as Stonewall County's voter registrar and can be reached for voter registration questions and election information. Voter registration in Texas is available to U.S. Citizens who are at least 18 years old, residents of Stonewall County, and not finally convicted of a felony (or who have completed their sentence, including probation and parole).
- Voters can also register in person at the County Clerk's office or at various state agencies.
Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before an election to be eligible to vote in that election. Texas offers online voter registration applications through the Texas Secretary of State website at www.votetexas.gov, where residents can complete and print the application, which must then be signed and mailed to Stonewall County Voter Registrar. To find your polling place in Stonewall County, voters may contact the County Clerk's office or check their voter registration certificate, which is mailed after successful registration and lists the assigned precinct and polling location.
Due to Stonewall County's small size, there are typically only one or two polling locations, generally at Stonewall County Courthouse or community centers in Aspermont. Election records that are public under Texas Election Code include voter registration rolls (with certain personal information redacted), precinct-level election results, campaign finance reports filed with Stonewall County, candidate applications and filing documents, and early voting statistics. The Texas Public Information Act (Government Code Chapter 552) governs access to these records.
In the November 2024 general election, Stonewall County experienced voter turnout of approximately 68-72%, consistent with the high participation rates typical of rural Texas counties in presidential election years. The next major election will be held on November 3, 2026, featuring U.S. House of Representatives races for Texas Congressional districts, contested races for Governor of Texas, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, other statewide offices, Texas State Senate and House seats, and various local positions.
Mail-in (absentee) ballots in Texas are available only to voters who meet specific criteria: those 65 years or older, those who will be absent from Stonewall County during the early voting period and on election day, those confined in jail but otherwise eligible, or those with a sickness or physical disability. Applications for mail-in ballots must be submitted to Stonewall County Early Voting Clerk (the County Clerk) and must be received (not postmarked) by the 11th day before election day. Transparency in Stonewall County elections is maintained through public access to records, open meetings of the commissioners court when canvassing results, and the availability of election observers as permitted by Texas Election Code Chapter 33.
Economy & Demographics
Stonewall County's economy is overwhelmingly based on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and dryland farming, which have been the economic foundation since Stonewall County's organization in 1888. Stonewall County's scene of rolling prairies and grasslands is ideal for livestock production, with beef cattle operations dominating the agricultural sector. Wheat, cotton, and hay production constitute the primary crop farming activities, though yields are heavily dependent on unpredictable rainfall patterns typical of the Rolling Plains region.
- According to recent estimates, the median household income in Stonewall County is approximately $42,000, below both state and national averages, reflecting the challenges of rural agricultural economies.
- Wind energy has emerged as a supplementary economic contributor, with wind turbine installations on agricultural land providing lease income to landowners while allowing continued ranching use.
Stonewall County's population has declined steadily since the mid-20th century as agricultural mechanization reduced labor needs and younger residents migrated to urban areas for employment opportunities. The largest employers in Stonewall County include Stonewall County government, the Aspermont Independent School District, ranching operations, and agricultural service providers. There are no major industrial facilities or corporate headquarters in Stonewall County.
The retail and service sectors in Aspermont are limited, with most residents traveling to larger communities such as Abilene or Lubbock for major purchases and specialized services. Unemployment rates in Stonewall County tend to remain low, typically between 2-4%, partly due to the small labor force and the nature of self-employment in agriculture. Economic development efforts focus on maintaining the agricultural base, improving infrastructure such as roads and broadband internet, and supporting the small business community.
Tourism is minimal but includes visitors to the annual Old Settlers Reunion and heritage tourists interested in Stonewall County's frontier history and historic courthouse.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: In-Person Only | Property: Limited: In-Person Only | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Phone/In-Person | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person Required | Business: Yes: State Online (DBA County Only) | Elections: Limited: Online | Overall Score: 4/10, Stonewall County's small size and limited budget mean most public records require in-person visits or phone contact, though state-level resources provide some online access.