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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBurleson County Historical Markers BURLESON COUNTY STATE HISTORICAL MARKERS Compiled by Nancy & Donnie Willis September 29, 2009 Reeves-Womack House: 405 W. Fox St. at Harvey St., Caldwell Caldwell native William Reeves (1858-1921), a prominent merchant and banker in the town, built this residence before the turn of the century. In 1907 it was sold to Civil War veteran Capt. Mansell Lewis Womack (b. 1846), a local business and civic leader who had served as Sheriff of Burleson County. Members of his family owned the house until 1957. The home's elaborate late Victorian style features intricate Eastlake detailing. Thomas Kraitchar, Jr. House: 200 E. Buck St. at Porter St., Caldwell A fine example of a Victorian cottage-style residence, this home was built in 1891 for Thomas Kraitchar, Jr. (1870-1946). A merchant by profession, Kraitchar also served terms as the Burleson County Tax Collector and as a Caldwell City Alderman. His house, of cypress construction, features a five-bay symmetrical facade with a central gable. It remained in the Kraitchar family until 1982. J. L. Woods' Undertaking Company: 511 8th St. (on Strickland Funeral Home bldg.), Somerville Jebb Lee Woods (1872-1932) came to Somerville in 1900. He began working for his uncle at the Cowboy Merchant Store, where he sold coffins. In 1911 he became the town undertaker and started the first funeral parlor in the county. The practice of embalming first began in 1914 and coffins were purchased from traveling salesmen. A horse-drawn hearse was used until 1929. Woods family descendants continued to operate the business after his death. Later known as Strickland Funeral Home, Inc., it remains a family business. Yegua Creek: on SH 36, just S of Somerville, in roadside park on W side of 36 In 1690 the Spanish gave the name "San Francisco" to this 62-mile Brazos River tributary; but on an 1822 map, Stephen F. Austin, "Father of Texas", marked it "Yegua", Spanish for "mare". Mustang mares and foals then grazed among the Indians on the timbered creek. In 1826, colonist John P. Coles built a mill on the stream. A measure signed in 1837 by Texas President Sam Houston made the Yegua a county boundary. Floods often devastated the area until Lake Somerville harnessed Yegua's waters in 1967. Now a recreation area, the lake and creek benefit crops, wild life, and vacationers. New Tabor Cemetery: FM 166, 3.5 mi. NE of Caldwell New Tabor was settled by Czech and German immigrants in the 1870s and 1880s. It was named for the community of Tabor in Czechoslovakia. In February 1888, Henry Ginzel sold 3.25 acres of land for a cemetery to trustees F. Jurcak, G. Hnilica and J. Skribanek. The first recorded burial here was that of infant Jan Skrabanek in July 1888; the first adult burial was that of Martin Fojt, who died in October 1888. A number of graves are those of infants and children, attesting to the often harsh conditions of pioneer life. The many who died in 1919 may have been victims of the influenza epidemic. More than 35 military veterans are interred here. With more than 841 graves, the cemetery continues to serve the descendants of New Tabor's pioneer settlers. (1999) Warren Lodge No. 56, A.F. & A.M. Burleson County was established in 1846 with Caldwell as the county seat. By the late 1840s Caldwell had a population of about three hundred. Local Masons began organizing and in October 1848 nine Freemasons petitioned George M. Patrick, grand master of Texas to grant dispensation for a lodge in Caldwell. In 1849 these men met in the county courthouse as District Deputy Grand Master John Sayles installed the first officers of the new Burleson Lodge No. 59. Jesse G. Thomas, then serving as first chief justice of Burleson County, was worshipful master. During 1849 the lodge initiated at least nine apprentice Masons including M. M. Hitchcock, future sheriff; Spencer Rice, future contractor of the 1853 county courthouse; and George B. Erath, the surveyor who platted Caldwell, sponsored legislation creating Burleson County and later served in the Texas Senate. The lodge was chartered in 1850 as Warren Lodge No. 56 though the reason for the name change is unknown, local lore states that the lodge was named for Dr. Joseph Warren, a well-known Freemason of Massachusetts. The Masons built their own lodge in 1854. They leveled the cornerstone of the new courthouse in 1889 amid full Masonic ceremonies. In 1890 they established a Masonic cemetery open to the public south of town. The lodge met soon after the full moon each month until 1930, when automobiles made night travel more feasible and they began meeting the second Thursday of each month. The Masonic cemetery was deeded to a private cemetery association in 1950. Warren Lodge No. 56 continues to be active in Burleson County community service. (2000) First United Methodist Church of Somerville: 11th and Avenue D, Somerville Organized 1901 by The Rev. H. G. Williams; had 29 charter members, and was in the Lyons Circuit. During first year, held prayer meetings in homes and preaching services in brush arbor lighted by members' lanterns. For weeks, evangelists operated a "chapel car" on railroad siding. Church and Sunday School moved in the winter to the schoolhouse. First sanctuary was erected in 1903; educational building, 1958; present sanctuary was completed on the original church site and dedicated in 1966. In first 70 years, the church had 34 pastors. Fort Oldham: On FM 1362 near intersection with CR 226 about 2.5 miles SW of Cooks Point Built 1836-37 by pioneers who took refuge with William Oldham (1798?-1868), Infantry major in Texas War for Independence. The fort stabilized the area, as dozens lived there in seasons of Indian raids, and eventually preachers who helped found early church. By 1838, Fort Oldham had a post office and was a stopping place on Independence-Tenoxtitlan Road. Maj. Oldham joined Somervell and Mier Expeditions (1842) to counter Mexican raids into Texas. Captured by the foe, he escaped, fought way through perils, and returned home. He amassed fortune in land surrounding fort site. Duewall House: 4 miles east of Caldwell on SH 21 Rudolph and Anna Duewall established a family farm here in the 1880s upon moving to Burleson County. Their son Edward (1885-1944) and his wife, Lizzie (Herrmann) (1890-1947), continued the farm operations. In 1928, they built this house on the site of the original Duewall House to accommodate their family of six children. Carpenter Otto Berndt used materials from the first farmhouse and from the second Burleson County Courthouse in the home's construction. The vernacular farmhouse features exposed rafters and a cross-gabled roof. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark -2001 Porter House: 4.5 miles northwest of Caldwll on SH 21, then 5.5 miles north on CR 324 Robert U. Porter (1825-1899) came to Texas with his parents in 1833. He took over the family landholdings and farm operations upon his father's death. The area around this site became known as Porter's Prairie. Robert Porter and his first wife, Sallie Choate, had 7 children here, and he and his second wife, Araminta Roberson, had 9 children. The imposing vernacular farmhouse's double porch echoes the Kentucky mansions of Robert Porter's childhood in its early Greek Revival influences. Characteristic elements of the house, such as hand-hewn oak floor joists and sills, were brought from Washington County, where family tradition says Porter chose the lumber himself. The farmstead remains intact at the dawn of the 21st century. Nearby are Porter's Chapel and Cemetery. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-2000 Caldwell Masonic Cemetery: west end of 12th St., Caldwell With more than 2,700 burials, this cemetery is a significant reflection of the heritage of Caldwell and Burleson County. It began as a Masonic cemetery in 1890 when Warren Lodge No. 56 purchased land here for that purpose. There already were at least three burials on the property at that time dating to 1860. Tombstones reflect the Czech and German heritage of the area and mark the resting places of war veterans, local officials and others who lived and worked in the area. In 1950, the Masons conveyed the burial ground to the Caldwell Cemetery Association and it became a public cemetery. It also contains burials from the Krueger Cemetery, relocated here when Lake Somerville was created in 1964. (2001) Thomas J. Gary: 8th Street and Avenue H Thomas J. Gary Born on Sept. 16, 1922, in Texas City, Thomas J. Gary, Jr., attended Somerville Junior High in the 1930s. He returned to Texas City and, in 1940, at age 18, enlisted in the U.S. Navy. A Seaman Second Class, Gary was assigned to the USS California, flagship for the Pacific fleet. Stationed at Hawaii, the ship came under attack at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, and Gary Gave his life to rescue several crewmates. Listed as buried at sea, he was honored for his bravery with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star and a Navy Citation. The Navy also named two ships for him, including The USS Thomas Jj. Gary (de/der-326), a destroyer escort that served around the world from 1943-1973. (2002) Frenstat Cemetery: intersection of FM 2774 and CR 406, off of SH 36S marker is pending Brazos Bottom Baptist Church Cemetery: Snook, NW on FM 2039, then W on CR 254 Also known as the Old Tunis Cemetery, this burial ground originally served a pioneer area of the fertile Brazos valley. Graves date from the 1840s, and John and Sarah Wright Echols formally set aside land in 1867 for this graveyard and a Baptist Church, which disbanded in 1883. The headstones preserve the names of farmers, veterans, families and pioneers, including Judge John Gregg (1798-1848), a Texas War for Independence veteran, planter and Milam County justice. A cemetery association maintains the site, preserving the rich history of the valley. Historic Texas Cemetery -2000 Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church: in the Frenstat community; from Caldwell, travel 7 mi. S on US 36, then W on FM 976 to FM 2274 and S 0.8 mi. marker is pending St. Mary's Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church: 500 W. Old San Antonio Rd. marker is pending Lone Oak Baptist Church: 4 mi. W of Snook on FM 60, just past intersection with FM (?) 3058 marker is pending Black Jack Baptist Church: 12 mi. NW of Caldwell via SH 21 W, then FM 908 NW, church is on CR 301, 0.1 mi E of FM 908 The founding of this congregation was sponsored by the neighboring Liberty Baptist Church. Organized in May 1885 with 17 charter members, the church called James G. Cooper to serve as its first pastor. The community schoolhouse served as a meeting place until 1894, when a sanctuary was constructed at this site. Black Jack Baptist Church began a Sunday School program in 1909. Although the membership disbanded during the World War II years and again in the late 1960s it is an important part of the religious heritage of Burleson County. (1985)*** Brazos River Levee: On FM 50, 1.3 mi S of it's intersection W/SH 21, about 11 mi E of Caldwell. Destructive Brazos River floods have often plagued residents of Burleson County. In 1899, a 30-inch rain killed 35 and caused about $9 million in property damage. Again in 1900, 1902 and 1908 Brazos River bottom inhabitants endured serious flooding. In 1909 W.S. Mial and 49 other citizens asked the commissioners of Burleson County to build levees along the Brazos to protect the valuable farm land. In July 1909, voters unanimously approved the issuance of bonds and the higher taxes to pay off the debt. Contractors Roach and Stansell built the 9-foot levee which extended south for 30 miles. Its test came in December 1913, with a storm far worse than the 1899 flood. Residents of this area, depending on the levees for safety, did not flee until the water had risen dangerously. Too late, they discovered the levee trapped water and then broke, unleashing a wall of destruction from which there was no escape. Victims rode out the flood on roofs and in treetops. There where 180 deaths and $8 million in property loss. Still convinced of the value of the levees, voters in 1914 approved reconstruction bonds. The indebtedness was not retired until 1963, long after modern flood control methods made the area safe.** (1978)*** Near Homesite of Judge Andrew S. Broaddus: NE corner of SH 21 & FM 1362 intersection Cooks Point Noted pioneer leader. Member Virginia House of Delegates (1844-45). Piloted to Texas (1854) a milelong wagon train of 200 people, who built Salem Baptist Church--reminder of their Virginia home. Broaddus debated the Hon.Sam Houston at Waugh Campground (8 Mi. W), 1857. He served in 1861 in Texas Secession Convention; 9th (1861-63) Texas Legislature; 13th Texas Legislature (1873); also on commission to locate and build Texas Agricultural & Mechanical College (now university); judge, 32nd District (1874-75; 1879-80). Married twice, had 13 children. (1971) Burleson County: SE Corner (intraffictriangle) of the intersection of SH 21 & SH 36 Caldwell. Farmed Early as 1744 by Indians under guidance of Spanish missionaries. In 1830, Ft. Tenoxtitlan, guarding Brazos crossing, San Antonio Road, attracted Anglo-Texans, who lived off wild game in early years. County created and organized in 1846. Named for Gen.Edward Burleson (1798-1851), veteran of Battle of San Jacinto; Indian fighter; Republic of Texas vice-president and senator, later a state senator. County seat, Caldwell (named for Mathew Caldwell, signer of Declaration of Independence). During the Civil War, furnished troops, cotton and food to Confederate Texas. (1965) Burleson County: Courthouse Square Echols @Buck St., Caldwell In rich Brazos River basin; had settlers early as 1825. Site in 1830 of Tenoxtitlan, one of 3 forts built by Mexico in Texas, situated above El Camino Real (The King's Highway) crossing on Brazos River. North of the road was Sterling Robertson's Colony; south, the colony of Stephen F. F. Austin. In 1840 on the Old Road, Civil Engineer George B. Erath (1813-1891) platted town of Caldwell, named for noted Indian fighter Mathew ("Old Paint") Caldwell. In 1846, Erath introduced in First Legislature of State of Texas a bill creating Burleson County out of land then in Milam and Washington counties. It was named for Gen. Edward Burleson (1793-1851), under whom many local men had fought in the Texas War for Independence and in Indian Wars. Gen. Burleson was a congressman, senator and vice president of the Republic of Texas; also was in first State Senate. Plantation system prevailed until Civil War (1861-1865). Burleson lost some area when Lee County was created in 1874. In 1880 the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railway built into county; soon afterward, Houston & Texas Central added more rail mileage. This is fourth courthouse for county. Economy is based on farming, oil, and miscellaneous products. (1970) Burleson County C.S.A.: Courthouse Lawn Fox @Main St. Caldwell On Feb. 23, 1861, citizens voted for secession, 422 to 84. On March 1, the "Burleson Guards" organized and offered its services to the state. Most "Guards" were mustered into Co.G, 2nd Texas Infantry Regt., and others served in Walker's Texas Division, Waul's Legion, Terry's Rangers, and Hood's Brigade. On the home front, the 3rd Regt., 18th Brigade, Texas State Troops, was organized to protect local citizens, and the County Commissioners Court provided funds to supply food and other necessities to the families of soldiers fighting in the war. (1973) City of Caldwell: Courthouse Square Echols @Buck Sts. Caldwell In 1840 the Republic of Texas Congress annexed to Milam County all of Washington County north of Yegua Creek and west of the Brazos River. The name Caldwell, which honored Mathew "Old Paint" Caldwell, a noted pioneer and a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence, was chosen for a settlement that would become the seat of a future county. Following a land title dispute, this site was selected for the proposed town. Located Located on the Old San Antonio Road, it had been settled earlier by Virginia native Lewis L. Chiles, a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto who had operated a trading post on Davidson Creek. George B. Erath platted the town of Caldwell in 1840. Streets running parallel to the Old San Antonio road were named for native animals and intersecting streets were named for the commissioners who had selected the townsite. When Burleson County was created six years later, Caldwell became the permanent seat of government. Incorporated in 1891, Caldwell developed as a major agricultural shipping center with the completion of area rail lines in 1890 and 1912. Since the 1840s the city has played a vital role in the region through its steady commercial growth and rich heritage. (1892) City of Caldwell: On SH 21 @Gray St in front of Public Library Caldwell Founded 1840 by Lewis L. Chiles, a veteran of Battle of San Jacinto. Named for Mathew "Old Paint" Caldwell, Indian fighter and signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. This was county seat, Milam County, in 1845; since 1846 county seat of Burleson County. Home, Burleson County Fair. (1967) Caldwell National Bank: 129 W. Buck St. (corner of Buck & Echols), Caldwell On January 24, 1903, a group of local businessmen under the direction of J. J. Lane and C. C. Nelms met for the purpose of establishing a national bank. The thirty original stock subscribers who attended pledged $25,000 in organizational capital and the institution opened the following month. Operating under Federal Charter No. 6607, Caldwell National Bank is the first and the oldest publicity owned financial institution in Burleson County. In 1906, following earlier increases in capital, the business was expanded when the directors voted to purchase the assets of the First National Bank, a Caldwell financial institution under the direction of William Reeves. Three years later, Caldwell National Bank operations were moved to this site. The original building here was later replaced by a larger facility. Burleson County native C. C. Nelms became president of the bank in 1923 and was named chairman of the board in 1953. He died in 1961, following 58 years of service to the institution. A growing yet stable financial force in Caldwell and in Burleson County, the Caldwell National Bank has been a leader in the development of the community since the turn of the century. (1981) Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department: 206 S. Hill St. @Mustang St. Caldwell Caldwell's volunteer fire department was organized as the Caldwell Hook & Ladder Co. No.1 on July 22, 1886, five years before the city of Caldwell was incorporated. The original 22 members of the association obtained their first pieces of equipment--a four-wheel truck (pulled by manpower) complete with extension ladders, axes, and leather buckets for holding water-through membership dues and donations from citizens. Reorganization as the Caldwell Fire Company took place in 1907, providing for election of officers and directors and limiting membership to 40 persons. Membership over the years has averaged 20 to 25. After its incorporation in 1891, the city of Caldwell gradually took over supervision of the fire company, giving its first $250 for the purchase of a new fire truck in 1916. The volunteer fire department has historically answered calls for assistance both inside the city limits and in the neighboring rural areas. Throughout its history, the Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department has been a community service-oriented organization, sponsoring circuses, maifests, first aid classes and safety programs, and maintaining Fireman's Park from 1889 to 1910. The company's 1937 fire truck was restored as a city preservation project, Texas Sesquicentennial 1836-1986. Lewis L. Chiles: In old city Cemetery-Buffalo & Thomas Sts., Caldwell A San Jacinto Veteran; founder of the city of Caldwell.. Born in Virginia in 1811; died May 29, 1864. His wife Emily Hitchcock Chiles; born December 13, 1824; died June 9, 1877 An Arm of The Chisholm Cattle Trail: from Caldwell, take SH 21 W about 8 mi to Marker on N. side of Road The Chisholm Trail, which was developed following the Civil War, allowed Texas cattle to be driven to railheads in Kansas for shipment to eastern markets. An arm of the celebrated route, reaching from Matagorda County to the main trail near present McGregor, passed through this area. With the establishment of James L. Dean's store, later the site of Deanville, and the White Inn, the trail became a significant commercial road. Vital to the development of Burleson County's cattle industry, it declined in use after rail lines reached the area in the late 1870s. (1981) Horatio Chriesman: Chriesman Cemetery -from Caldwell, take SH 36 NW about 6.2 mi to CR 328, EO E about 1/2 mi to cemetery Colonial statesman, Methodist lay leader, pioneer in Burleson County. Came to Texas in 1822 from Kentucky. Had office of surveyor, Austin's Colony, 1823-1836; was a military officer in Indian conflicts and also army of Gen. Sam Houston during Texas War for independence; in 1837 served on commission to choose site of Capital, Texas Republic. Married first Mary Kincheloe; after her death, Augusta Hope. He had eleven children. Recorded 1969. Town of Chriesman: on FM 1363 about 3/10 mi W of its intersection with SH 36, about 6.2 mi. N of Caldwell (Originally "Yellow Prairie" 0.5 mile) Settled by Alexander Thomson, Jr., early Texas patriot and partner of the colonizer Sterling C. Robertson. When railroad came through in 1880, the settlers moved to tracks. Renamed, 1884, after Capt. H.C. Chriesman, surveyor for Stephen F. Austin. Now serves surrounding ranches. (1968) Old City Cemetery: Buffalo St @Thomas St., Caldwell Created in 1840 (same year Caldwell was laid out) when lots 3 and 12 were made a "Grave Yard and Church lot" forever. Town founder Lewis L. Chiles (d.1864) is buried here. Oldest legible stone is for Margarette A. King and infant daughter (d.1843). Now maintained by city. (1971) Cooks Point: NE corner of SH 21 & FMM 1362 intersection Cooks Point Founded about 1840 where colonial road from southeast crossed San Antonio Road. Settler Gabriel Jackson had two-story log cabin-trading post here. Community was named for Silas L. Cooke, who surveyed much land in this vicinity. It is now a thriving rural village. (1969) Cooks Point United Methodist Church: from Caldwell, take SH 21 E about 5 mi to Church on S. side of road This congregation began in 1881 to serve the German speaking population in the area. Organized largely through the efforts of Anna Duewall, who had come to Burleson County with her family in 1880, the fellowship originally was known as the German Methodist Church, Caldwell. The Rev. Jacob Ott served as first pastor. Worship services were held in the members' homes until a sanctuary was built in 1883. The congregation adopted the name Cooks Point in the 1940s and continues to play an important role in the surrounding rural area. (1984) Deanville: Intersection of FM 111 & FM 60, Deanville Founded 1872 by merchant James L. Dean (born 1841) on an arm of Chisholm Cattle Trail. The post office was established 1877. Houston & Texas Central Railroad extended line here in 1913. Sons of Hermnan (O.D.H.S.) Lodge, organized in 1916, sponsors annual Fourth of July Celebration. (1972) Early Settlers of Burleson County in the Texas War for Independence: Courthouse Lawn Main @Fox St., Caldwell When Mexican Dictator Santa Anna revoked national rights, 30 or more men from this sparsely settled area left to resist his armies in Grass Fight (Nov. 26, 1835), Siege of Bexar (Dec. 5-9) and other actions. While able men were absent, the foe came within 40 miles of here, pillaging the country. Civilians fled over the swollen swollen Brazos, toward safety in the United States. Their men on April 21, 1836, helped win Battle of San Jacinto and Independence. Some were in Regular Infantry Company A; Companies C, F, and H, 1st Regiment, and 4th Company, 2nd Regiment, Texas Volunteers. (1973) Site of Camino Real: from Caldwll, take SH 21 about 9.4 mi W to marker in Roadside Park on S. side of riad (The old San Antonio Road) Great thoroughfare of early Texas. Following ancient Indian and buffalo paths, sometimes on same course as 1691 "Trail of the Padres", stretches 1,000 miles from Saltillo, Mexico, to present Louisiana. Highway for explorers, traders, smugglers, adventurers, settlers, armies. Was surveyed about 1800 and given name of "King's Highway". Here, as in some other areas, the modern highway follows historic El Camino Real. Also, in this particular area, El Camino Real marked boundary between the major early 19th century colonies of Stephen F. Austin and Sterling C. Robertson. (1968) Elizabeth Chapel Methodist Church: from Caldwell, take SH 21 E about 5 mi to Roadside Park on S. side of road First Methodist Church in the county. Began as Sunday School in home of Isaac Addison, early settler. Later moved to home of Mrs. Elizabeth Scott. Organized about 1839 by Robert Alexander, famous pioneer minister. Soon a small, hand-hewn frame building was erected and named for Mrs. Scott. Land containing both the church and cemetery was given to Methodist Episcopal Church, South, by Mrs. Scott's son, Phillip, in 1878. Membership reached peak of 165 in 1885. Church merged with the Cooks Point church about 1907. (1970) First Baptist Church: Corner of Thomas & Mustang St., Caldwell Originally named Dove Church. Organized May 14, 1843, in home of Laban Rice, one of six charter members. Noted frontier ministers R. E. B. Baylor and Noah Byars presided at founding, and Byars served as first pastor. First building (1844) stood on Davidson Creek (about 1 mi. E), where early Baptisms were held. One of many renowned former pastors was the Rev. B. H. Carroll, who was ordained and licensed here. Of five sanctuaries for this church, two burned. The present one was built in 1928-1929. In 1960 it was remodeled and an education building erected. (1969) First Presbyterian Church of Caldwell: 600 block of Buck St. (at the corner of Moore St.), Caldwell This congregation was organized by The Rev. Hugh Wilson, an early Presbyterian missionary noted for his active work on the Texas frontier. Although the first account of the church appears in an 1850 document, it is likely that the congregation was organized soon after the City of Caldwell was founded in 1840. During the 1880s, the congregation met in the Methodist Church building. A 1906 fire destroyed the Presbyterians' first sanctuary. The congregation is an important historic link to the early days of Burleson County and the beginning of the Presbyterian Church in Texas. First United Methodist Church of Caldwell: 306 W. Fox St. at Thomas St., Caldwell Congregation, organized 1840, is one of the oldest in Texas. It was one of 12 appointments on Nashville Circuit, Galveston District, Republic of Texas. Early worship was in various temporary structures. Here, in 1841, the Republic gave this church a beautiful grove as a building site. Caldwell became a circuit in 1852; the first church building was erected in 1854. Becoming an "independent station" in 1889, Caldwell built a new church and hosted Texas Methodist Conference in 1890. Present building was erected in 1927 on historic site of 1841. Snook Cemetery: 2 mi. S of SH 60 on FM 2155 marker is pending John Mitchell: 8 mi. SW of Caldwell on SH 21 in roadside park John Mitchell Born in Tennessee c. 1836-37, John Mitchell came to Texas in 1846. He began purchasing land in this area in 1870, the same year he married Viney Cox. As a member of both the 12th and 14th Legislatures, Mitchell championed increased educational opportunities for African Americans. Elected as a delegate to the 1875 Constitutional Convention, he defended the policies of Gov. Davis and was one of 11 members to vote against adoption of the new constitution, which ultimately marked the end of reconstruction in Texas. John Mitchell returned to Burleson County as a farmer and rancher, and donated land for a church and school that bore his name. Upon his death in 1921, he was buried in a family graveyard. (2002) Fort Tenoxtitlan: from Caldwell take SH 21 E about 6 miles to FM 1362, go N about 8 miles to CR 338, go E about 1.5 miles to double gate -marker is about 1/2 mile S across creek 2000 feet south, site of Fort Tenoxtitlan established by the Mexican government in July, 1830, in an attempt to stem Anglo-American settlement. Named in honor of the Aztec capital, now Mexico City. Abandoned by Mexican troops in 1832. In the town which grew up after 1834 many prominent Texans lived. The place passed from the map after 1860 Fort Tenoxtitlan: from Caldwell take SH 21 E about 5 miles to roadside park on S side of road Founded by Mexico as a bulwark against Anglo-American immigration, this fort and its nearby city were twice proposed proposed for the capital of Texas. Alarmed by the influx of Anglo settlers into Texas, Mexico in 1830 sought to erect a line of forts to keep out the intruders. The ancient Aztec name for Mexico City (originally pronounced "Tex-ox-teet-lan") was given this site; it means "prickly pear place". So hopeful of the fort's success was the military commandant of the region that he envisioned it as the capital of Texas. But Anglo immigration did not cease. Instead it thrived on the friendship of the local soldiers and incoming pioneers. The colonizer Sterling C. Robertson introduced scores of settlers. In 1832 the soldiers were withdrawn and the fort finally defaulted to the Anglos. Subsequently it was a supply center and mustering point for expeditions against the Indians. During its brief life many Texas patriots lived here, including 5 signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence, a martyr of the Alamo siege, and 7 soldiers of the Battle of San Jacinto. Tenoxtitlan was again suggested for the capital of Texas during the Republic, but Austin won out. In 1841, after many Indian raids, the site was abandoned. Giesenschlag Cemetery: from Snook, take FM 60 about 2 miles W to CR 271, go N about 1/2 mile to cemetery Prussian born Johann Joachim Giesenschlag (1817-80), his wife Anna (Schulze), and their children came to Texas in 1855. Settling first in Washington County, they moved to Burleson County in the 1870s and bought over 1,000 acres here. Giesenschlag set aside this tract for a family cemetery, and was the first to be interred here. In 1883 members of his family donated the property to the Evangelical Lutheran Trinity Church at Mound Prairie. For many years a schoolhouse was located on former Giesenschlag land adjacent to this pioneer cemetery. Site of Harvey House: On SH 36, northern edge of town, Somerville Fred Harvey, a native of England, began operation of his Santa Fe Railroad dining rooms in 1876. In 1900 a Harvey House opened in Somerville, Divisional Headquarters of the Santa Fe Line. The 2-story, galleried structure was 260 ft. long and contained a dining room, guest rooms, library and reading room. The Harvey House served travelers and railroad workers in an atmosphere of elegance. It became the social center of the town and boosted the local economy. The Harvey House closed in 1940 and was dismantled in 1943. The present depot is a part of the original building. Lee W. Henslee: Masonic Cemetery, 11th and Hall St. (marker is in block 4 off main road through cemetery), Caldwell (1872 -1927) Native of Burleson County; was named county sheriff in 1902; served in era when law and order were challenged. "Mr. Lee" seldom used a gun, commanding respect through quiet persuasion. His family lived in the county jail. He became tax collector, 1916. Hood's Texas Brigade, 1906 Reunion: on SH 36, northern edge of town, Somerville In 1906 Somerville hosted the annual reunion of the Hood's Texas Brigade Association, a group established in 1872 for veterans of the celebrated Confederate unit. For two days, June 27-28, 74 veterans were honored with a celebration which included speeches, a baseball game, and a grand ball. The local events were planned under the direction of the Association's President R. A. Brantley, Sr., and his daughter Mrs. Norton B. Wellborn, both of Somerville. Part of a tradition which ended in 1934, the reunion reflected the area's respect for the former Civil War soldiers. Lake Somerville: At 8th and Thornberry in front of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office at dam at Lake Somerville at the SW edge of Somerville First shovel of earth for Somerville Dam was turned Sept. 22, 1962, by Lyndon Johnson, then vice president of United States. Dam was built to control flooding on Yegua Creek. In the 46 years prior to 1958, Yegua has flooded 43 times, costing lives, crops. Project was finished 1967. Lyons: on SH 36 (in front of community center), Lyons An 1878 railway work camp; in 1880 became town of Lyon's Station, named for site donor, W. A. Lyon. Soon had 3 cotton gins, an oil mill, many businesses. In 1894 hosted first auto ever seen in this county, with rides for the daring. Now gateway to Lake Somerville Recreation Area. Lyons Methodist Church: Southern Oaks Drive and Pecan Drive (1 block W of SH 36), Lyons Organized at High Prairie (5 mi. NW) before 1880. The Rev. John R. Dunn was the first pastor. After the railroad came to Lyons, moved here. Erected 1887, this is the oldest church building in regular use in this area. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark -1968 Macedonia Hix Baptist Church: from Caldwell take FM 2000 about 13 miles N to church on E side of road Traveling ministers conducted services in this area during the 1840s. The church was organized about 1852 and located on land belonging to Ezra Webb. Oldest marked grave in the adjacent cemetery is that of Elder W. G. O'Bryan, who died in 1867. The first church building was torn down in 1879 and another built on nearby land donated by J .W. Porter. The present structure was erected in 1928. Summer revival meetings, originally held in a brush arbor, often attracted large crowds. The Rev. A. S. Broaddus (1879-1963) ministered to this congregation for about 40 years, 1913-53. Josef Masik: from Caldwell, take SH 21 E about 2 1/2 mile to CR 208, go S about 9/10 mile to wooden bridge over RR tracks, turn W on trail just before bridge -follow trail to marker (on S side of RR). (March 30, 1810 -July 1, 1881) First Czech teacher in Texas. Born in Moravia (now Czechoslovakia). Certified to teach at age 16. Came to Texas 1855, seeking freedom from oppression. Following much hardship, he resumed teaching, 1859, with up to 50 pupils yearly. Retired, 1872. Moseley's Ferry: from Caldwell, take SH 21 about 10 miles NE, marker is between FM 50 and Brazos River Bridge on E side of road Situated where the old San Antonio Road crossed the Brazos River, this public ferry was begun by Michael Boren (1806-75) about 1846. The ferry and a settlement nearby were named for Daniel Moseley (1787-1856), who took over the service in 1849 and whose family ran it until 1868. Other ferrymen continued to transport travelers, livestock, and freight across the river until 1912, when the Houston & Texas Central (now the Southern Pacific) constructed a railroad bridge at this location. Today a highway bridge spans the Brazos where Moseley's Ferry once operated. New Tabor Brethren Church: from Caldwell take FM 166 about 2.1 miles E to CR 225, go N about 0.8 mile to church About 1870 this area of Burleson County was settled by Czech-Moravian immigrants in search of fertile land and the religious freedom denied them in their native European homeland. Informal services were held twice a year in the family home of Joseph Macat until 1877, when The Rev. L. J. Chlumsky, of Washington County's Wesley community, accepted the call to conduct services at New Tabor Brethren Church. The congregation built a sanctuary at this location in 1893, the year of its formal organization as the Evangelical Czech-Moravian Brethren Church. The church building was destroyed by a tornado in 1915 and replaced by a new sanctuary later that year. New Tabor was the site of the Texas State Convention of Czech-Moravian Churches in 1919 during which independent congregations such as New Tabor's were accepted into the Unified Church denomination. The church organized a Mutual Aid Society in 1920, a Christian Sisters Society in 1927, and a Young People's Circle in 1936. The congregation's third sanctuary was constructed here in 1953. In 1962 a Men's Brotherhood was organized and in 1971 a nearby church cemetery was established. New Tabor continues to serve the community by sponsoring various outreach programs. Oaklawn Cemetery: on SH 36, northern edge of town at intersection with CR 422, Somerville Dating to 1900, this graveyard was first called the Somerville and Lyons Cemetery. Land was purchased by J. W. Lauderdale to establish a cemetery upon the death of his two-year-old son Charles on November 6, 1900. The name was changed to Oaklawn Cemetery in 1913. Among the more than 2000 burials are 22 Civil War veterans, 20 children between 1900-1905, and victims of a typhoid fever epidemic in 1903. The construction of the dam at Somerville in 1963 caused 16 people to be reinterred here from other graveyards. The cemetery is still in use. Providence Cemetery: 7 miles SE of Caldwell on FM 166, then S 1/2 mile on CR 243 According to oral tradition, this cemetery has served residents of the Providence area since the 1830s. The earliest marked grave is that of Elizabeth Hughes, who died in 1841, but the presence of unmarked graves suggests that the burial ground was used earlier. There are more than 600 graves located here, including those of early Providence area farmers, slaves, and veterans of the Civil War and World Wars I and II. The historic burial ground is maintained by the Providence Cemetery Association. It remains an important cultural resource in this area. Providence Baptist Church: 7 miles SE of Caldwell on FM 166, then S 1/2 mile on CR 243 Organized 1841 in Republic of Texas by James A. Prewitt, first deacon. Until calling of pastor, 32 members met 3 or 4 times a year, with planters from Brazos bottoms and their households (including slaves) in attendance. By 1875 this was one of most influential churches in area, known for its 2-weeks brush arbor or tabernacle meetings. It has had 25 pastors. Original church was of split logs. Present building is the fourth. Centennial observance in 1941 was attended by the Lieutenant Governor and other officials. St. John's Lutheran Church: intersection of FM 111 and FM 60, Deanville This church was organized by The Rev. A. H. Falkenberg and 35 charter members in 1910. Services were held in a schoolhouse until a sanctuary, containing an 800-pound bell donated by the family of John B. Luedke, Sr., was built here in 1917. The church established an adjacent cemetery in 1918. The congregation prospered and a new church building was erected here in 1966. The original bell, housed in a tower at this site, continued to herald the commencement of worship services. This congregation has played a vital role in the community's civic, social, and religious development. San Salvador Mission Church: from Caldwell, take SH 21 E about 11 miles to FM 50, go S about 2 miles to CR 286, go W about 0.5 mile to church San Salvador, a mission of St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Bryan, was named for the patron saint of Cefalu, Sicily, the native village of Italian immigrants who came here in 1894. Religious services were held in homes until 1908, when devout families each gave cotton from ten field rows to buy materials, and the men worked six weeks to build this church. First Mass was said at its Altar in Oct. 1908. In 1952 the building was remodeled, and a new Altar was added in 1965. Snook: on FM 2155 at intersection with Spur 2155, Snook Settled 1880s by Czech immigrants. First called "Sebesta's Corner". In 1895 named "Snook" for John Snook, who helped secure post office. Soon had a one-room school, a "masova schuza" (slaughterhouse), a cooperative store, and lodge for "Czechoslovak Benevolent Society". Somerville: on SH 36, northern edge of town, Somerville Located where two branches of the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railway joined, town was named for Albert Somerville, first president of the railroad. First settlers arrived after town was surveyed about 1883; the post office was permanently established in 1897. Somerville boomed in the 1890s when local citizens persuaded a railroad tie plant to locate here. Santa Fe Railroad bought the operation in 1905; this is still an important industry. Incorporated in 1913, the town has become a recreation center since Lake Somerville was created in the 1960s. Alexander Thomson: (August 29, 1785 -June 1, 1863) A leader in colonizing Texas. Born in St. Matthew's Parish, Parish, S.C.; lived also in Georgia, then in Tennessee where in 1830 he became partner of the Empresario in development of the Sterling C. Robertson Colony. Conducting a number of families who had signed agreements to settle in the Robertson Colony, he crossed into Texas and came to Nacogdoches three days after Mexican officials there received notice of 1830 law requiring passports of immigrants. After Thomson tried unsuccessfully to have rule waived for hardship reasons, the party bypassed Nacogdoches, making a new trail often used afterward and known as the Tennesseans' Road. Thomson lived for a time in Austin's Colony, representing District of Hidalgo (now Washington County) at Texas Convention of 1832. By 1835, when he was Consultation Delegate from Viesca (later Milam Municipality), he was living and serving as official surveyor in Robertson's Colony. Still a leader, he was Robertson's executor in 1842. Married twice, father of 13, he was ancestor of many noted Texans, including Thaddeus A. Thomson, United States envoy to Colombia and signer of the Thomson-Urrutia Treaty in 1914. Alexander Thomson is buried in Thomson Family Cemetery one mile to the northeast. Waugh Campground: from Caldwell take SH 21 E about 1.5 mile to FM 2000, go N about 3.5 miles to marker on E side of road Given to Methodist church as a camp-meeting site, by the Isaac S. Addison family. Mrs. Addison named camp in honor of Bishop Beverly Waugh, who presided at first Methodist Conference in Texas, and who, like the Addisons, was from Baltimore, Md. Site was used for quarterly conferences of the church and for revivals. Converted here was The Rev. B. H. Carroll (1843-1914), great Baptist leader. Campground was open also for secular gatherings. A famous occasion was the July 16, 1857, debate between U.S. Senator Sam Houston and Judge A. S. Broaddus, a Burleson County leader.