Mother Neff State Park was the first official state park in Texas and suggested the idea for the state parks system. It originated with a 6-acre plot willed to Texas in 1916 by Mrs. Isabella E. Neff, mother of Pat M. Neff, Governor of Texas from 1921 to 1925. Because Texas then had no state parks, Mrs. Neff stated that the land was to be used for religious, fraternal, political, and educational activities. Seeing the need for more such areas, the 39th Legislature created the State Parks Board in 1923. In 1934, Pat Neff deeded 250 acres, and other owners 3 acres, to enlarge the original tract.