Humphreys Cemetery
Historical marker location:Members of the Jennings and Humphreys families settled in the Martindale area in the 1850s. They established a cemetery on land bought by Joseph Humphreys in 1855. Set aside on this raised area, the burial ground initially served family members who had settled the 2,000 acres adjoining the site.
Randolph Reed Jennings (d. 1854), who reportedly died of yellow fever on his way to Martindale, was the first buried here, and the grave marker of Agnes Jennings (d. 1869) bears the earliest birth year, 1783. Joseph Humphreys (d. 1864) was the first buried in the Humphreys family plot, denoted by two obelisks. Tradition holds that a number of unmarked graves belong to former slaves of the pioneer families. Notable burials include the graves of early settler Jemima Crunk (1799-1876) and George N. Martindale (1842-1892), son of the community's founder.
Today, families and descendants of those buried here meet regularly and maintain the cemetery, which was enlarged in 1946. This burial ground, a link to the area's early settlers, remains a symbol of Martindale and its rich history.
Historic Texas Cemetery - 2003
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 University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is one of the largest universities in the United States and has produced many notable alumni, including several U.S. presidents.
In 1834, Mexican impresario, Green DeWitt, received a land grant from the Mexican government and began attracting American settlers to the area. The town of Lockhart, named after James W. Lockhart, one of DeWitt's surveyors, was established in 1838 and became the county seat in 1848. The county was officially organized the following year.
During the Civil War, Caldwell County, like much of Texas, was divided in its loyalties. Many residents sided with the Confederacy and fought in the war, while others were Union sympathizers. The conflict left deep scars on the county, but it managed to recover and thrive in the post-war years.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Caldwell County's economy was primarily agricultural, with cotton being a major crop. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s boosted economic growth and allowed for easier transportation of goods. Over time, the county diversified its economy, with industries such as oil and gas, cattle ranching, and manufacturing becoming prominent.
Today, Caldwell County is known for its historic charm, scenic beauty, and a strong sense of community. It is home to several notable landmarks, including the Caldwell County Courthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The county continues to evolve and adapt, while also preserving its rich history and heritage.
Caldwell County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Caldwell County, Texas.
- 1848 - The Republic of Texas holds a land lottery and grants land in the area to settlers.
- 1849 - Caldwell County is officially established.
- 1852 - The county seat is named Lockhart.
- 1876 - The first courthouse in Lockhart is built.
- 1887 - The discovery of oil in the county brings prosperity.
- 1922 - The current Caldwell County Courthouse is constructed.
- 1948 - The Chisholm Trail Museum is established in Lockhart.
- 1984 - The Circuit of the Americas racetrack is built in the county.