Glenwood Cemetery
In 1901, after nearby Evergreen Cemetery had begun to run out of burial space, local undertaker Christopher Rotzien purchased land adjacent to the St. Joseph Cemetery. The same year, the Eeds family purchased plots in the cemetery and Margaret Ann Eeds was interred in April 1901, making her the first person to be buried in Glenwood Cemetery. The land was bought in 1902 by the Beeville Cemetery Association. Notable people buried in the cemetery include the sister of noted Texas author J. Frank Dobie and veterans of various wars beginning with the Spanish-American War. Burials have extended to Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish persons. The cemetery has undergone expansions and renovations from the 1960s and 1970s and continuing through more recent efforts.
The original Glenwood Cemetery as it was first purchased measured out to five and a half acres. It was first divided into 120 lots of the dimensions of 40 by 40 feet, and then subdivided into 480 separate 20 by 20 feet lots. The cemetery underwent expansions in later years, gaining ten additional acres in 1920. Today, the cemetery is landscaped and trimmed, containing oak and cedar trees. Concrete, granite, ceramic photographs, and wood have been used in the building of grave markers. Among original intact gravestones are unmarked and undated gravestones. The cemetery is still in use and is managed by the Beeville Cemetery Association
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
In the 19th century, Bee County underwent significant changes due to the arrival of American settlers. In 1857, Bee County was officially formed and named after Colonel Barnard E. Bee, a hero of the Texas Revolution. The county began to flourish with the establishment of ranching and farming communities. The emergence of railroads in the late 1800s further boosted the area's growth, connecting Bee County to markets in nearby counties and facilitating economic development.
The discovery of oil in Bee County in the early 20th century signaled another wave of prosperity. The county experienced a boom in oil production, attracting workers and capital to the area. This development led to the growth of towns such as Beeville, the county seat, as well as significant infrastructure improvements. Agriculture, including cotton and livestock, also continued to play a crucial role in the county's economy during this period.
Today, Bee County remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy. It is known for its agricultural output, with cattle ranching, cotton farming, and vegetable cultivation being key industries. The county also benefits from the presence of the oil and gas industry, which continues to contribute to its economic stability. Bee County's rich history and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.
Bee County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bee County, Texas.
- 1836: Bee County is part of the newly independent Republic of Texas.
- 1837: The Texas legislature establishes Bee County as a separate county from San Patricio County.
- 1858: The county seat is moved from old Fort Ewell to the newly established village of Beeville.
- 1908: The first oil well is drilled in Bee County.
- 1930s: Oil production in Bee County booms and greatly impacts the local economy.
- 1942: Chase Field, a naval aviation training base, is established in Beeville during World War II.
- 1960s: Beeville experiences significant economic growth due to the establishment of several manufacturing plants.
- 1990: Bee County celebrates its 150th anniversary.
- 2006: The Bee County Courthouse, a historic landmark, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.