Rocky Creek Cemetery
Source: Parsons, Kim, Ref. to Texas Cemeteries, 1988; Denson, et al, Bandera County Cemetery Records; USGS/GNIS
Rocky Creek Cemetery, situated in Bandera, Texas, is a hallowed ground steeped in history, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of the local community.
Established in the 19th century, this cemetery holds the memories of numerous noteworthy individuals who left their mark on Bandera. Among them is Moses A. Harman, a prominent local rancher, and the founder of the "Bandera New Era," an influential newspaper during the late 1800s. His resting place serves as a testament to the role of journalism in shaping the region's history.
Rocky Creek Cemetery has consistently served as the final resting place for generations of Bandera residents, embodying the community's diverse heritage. Tombstones within its grounds tell the stories of the Mendoza family, descendants of Spanish settlers who contributed significantly to the region's culture and history.
The cemetery also pays tribute to veterans, including those who served in World War I, World War II, and subsequent conflicts. Their graves serve as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by local heroes and add to the historical significance of the cemetery.
To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.
The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.
A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.
The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
The first recorded settlement in Bandera County was established in 1852 by John James and Charles DeMontel. The town of Bandera was soon founded, and in 1856, Bandera County was officially created. The county was named after the nearby Bandera Pass, a mountain pass that was used by early Spanish explorers as a trail marker.
During the 19th century, Bandera County became an important center for ranching and agriculture. The fertile land and abundant water sources made it an ideal location for raising cattle and farming. The region quickly developed a reputation for its strong cowboy and ranching culture.
In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil in nearby counties brought economic prosperity to Bandera County. Numerous oil wells were drilled, and the area experienced a boom in population and development. Despite the decline of the oil industry in later years, Bandera County continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, known for its historic downtown, natural beauty, and western heritage.
Today, Bandera County remains a charming rural community that celebrates its rich history and maintains its Western traditions. Visitors can explore the numerous historic sites, museums, and cowboy-themed events, immersing themselves in the county's unique culture and heritage.
Bandera County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bandera County, Texas.
- 1856 - Bandera County is created from parts of Bexar, Uvalde, Medina, and Kerr counties.
- Late 1850s - Settlers begin to establish homesteads and ranches in the area.
- 1870 - The first courthouse is built in Bandera, the county seat.
- Late 1870s - The population booms due to the expansion of the cattle industry.
- 1891 - The Bandera County Courier newspaper is founded.
- 1933 - The Bandera Electric Cooperative is formed to bring electricity to rural areas.
- 1940s - Ranching and farming become the primary economic activities in the county.
- 1975 - Bandera becomes the "Cowboy Capital of the World" and hosts the first Cowboy Capital Rodeo.
- 2002 - The Bandera County Library is opened.