The road that is Route 137first appeared on state maps in 1933 as Route J. However, in that year it was only a shortspur from U.S 60 & 63, only going as far as the Texas/Howell County line. Route J was extended to Route 17 in Yukon the following year. Route J was upgraded to Route 137 in 1937. In 1964, Route 137 was extended to Licking, taking over a section of U.S Route 63. The former section of U.S 63 between Houston and Raymondville still remains part of the state system as Route B.