Warren Lodge No. 56, A.F. & A.M.
Historical marker location: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)
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.
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
During the Civil War, Burleson County saw its fair share of turmoil. Many of its residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, while others supported the Union. The county was occupied by Union troops for a short period, which caused further division among its residents.
In the late 19th century, the county experienced an economic boom with the expansion of the railroad. The arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railway in the 1870s brought new opportunities for trade and commerce. Several communities, such as Caldwell and Snook, were established along the railroad routes and became important shipping centers for agricultural products.
Agriculture remained the backbone of the county's economy throughout the 20th century. Cotton, corn, and livestock farming were the mainstay of Burleson County's agricultural industry. The county also experienced growth in oil and gas production during the mid-20th century. In recent years, the county has diversified its economy with the growth of manufacturing and services sectors.
Today, Burleson County is a thriving community with a blend of rural charm and economic development. Its rich history is celebrated through various events and festivals, such as the Burleson County Czech Heritage Festival and the Caldwell Kolache Festival. The county's natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant community make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
Burleson County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Burleson County, Texas.
- 1841 - Burleson County is established as a part of the Republic of Texas
- 1851 - The county seat is established in Caldwell
- 1861-1865 - Burleson County residents actively participate in the American Civil War
- 1870s - The county experiences growth with the arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railroad
- 1881 - A fire destroys many buildings in Caldwell
- 1903 - The Texas A&M Southwest Experiment Station is established in Burleson County
- 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county
- 1940 - Oil and gas discoveries bring some economic relief to Burleson County
- 1976 - The Burleson County Historical Society is formed
- 1990 - The population of Burleson County reaches its peak at over 21,000 residents
- 2000s - The county continues to focus on agricultural and oil industries while experiencing some population growth