White Deer Cemetery
Historical marker location:IN 1916, MRS. BEULAH V. TILLMAN, A “FEMME SOLE,” PURCHASED 155 OF THE 160 ACRES THAT MADE UP BLOCK 7 OF SURVEY 26 OF THE INTERNATIONAL AND GREAT NORTHERN RAILROAD COMPANY. BECAUSE THE REMAINING FIVE ACRES WERE OMITTED FROM THE PURCHASE, THE SITE MAY HAVE ALREADY BEEN ESTABLISHED AS AN INFORMAL BURIAL GROUND. IT IS BELIEVED THAT AN EMPLOYEE OF THE RAILROAD DIED IN AN ACCIDENT CA. 1905 AND HAD BEEN BURIED AT THE SITE, ALTHOUGH NO RECORDS OF THE BURIAL SURVIVE.
THE WHITE DEER CEMETERY ASSOCIATION WAS FORMED IN MARCH 1923, AND THE FIRST DIRECTORS OF THE ASSOCIATION WERE JOHN GORES, J.C. JACKSON, C.E. EVANS, G.B. MOSS, AND W.H. BRADY. AT THAT TIME, FREDERIC DE P. FOSTER, ACTING AS A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE WHITE DEER LAND COMPANY, SOLD THE FIVE ACRE CEMETERY TO THE ASSOCIATION TRUSTEES FOR THE SUM OF ONE DOLLAR. A SECOND CHARTER WAS FILED FOR THE CEMETERY ASSOCIATION IN 1953, BUT THE ASSOCIATION EVENTUALLY BECAME INACTIVE. IN 1991, A GROUP OF INTERESTED CITIZENS MET TO REESTABLISH THE ASSOCIATION, WHICH CONTINUES TO OVERSEE THE SITE.
THE OLDEST MARKED INTERMENT IN WHITE DEER CEMETERY IS THE 1915 GRAVE OF HOWARD MILHOAN. (A REPLACEMENT GRAVESTONE INCORRECTLY INDICATES THAT INFANT JEWEL BRADY DIED IN 1914, BUT HER DEATH ACTUALLY OCCURRED IN 1916.) ADDITIONAL BURIALS INCLUDE VETERANS OF THE CIVIL WAR, WORLD WAR I, WORLD WAR II, THE KOREAN WAR AND THE VIETNAM WAR. TODAY, WHITE DEER CEMETERY SERVES AS A REMINDER OF THE COMMUNITY’S EARLY PIONEERS, WHILE STILL MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE PEOPLE OF WHITE DEER AND THE SURROUNDING AREA.
HISTORIC TEXAS CEMETERY – 2009
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 a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
European settlers began arriving in Carson County in the mid-19th century, drawn by the prospect of vast grazing land and opportunities for ranching. In 1876, the county was officially established and named after Samuel P. Carson, a scout and buffalo hunter. With the arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad in the 1880s, the county experienced rapid growth, attracting both ranchers and farmers to the area.
The early 20th century brought economic diversification to Carson County, with the discovery of oil and gas reserves. This newfound wealth fueled further development and population growth in the region. In the 1920s, the construction of Texas State Highway 3 (now known as U.S. Route 60) through the county enhanced transportation, making it easier to access the surrounding cities.
Carson County played a prominent role during World War II, as it became the location of the Pantex Ordnance Plant in 1942. The plant served as a vital component of the Manhattan Project, manufacturing and assembling nuclear weapons. Today, the Pantex Plant continues to operate and plays a significant role in the defense industry, employing many residents of Carson County.
Throughout its history, Carson County has evolved from a land of Native American tribes and open prairies to a thriving community with a diverse economy. It boasts a rich heritage of ranching, farming, oil production, and defense industries. Despite the challenges and changes over time, the county continues to preserve its history while embracing progress and growth.
Carson County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Carson County, Texas.
- 1876 - Carson County was organized and named after Samuel Price Carson, a pioneer settler in the area.
- 1886 - The first post office, Panhandle City, was established.
- 1890 - Panhandle City became the county seat.
- 1902 - The Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway was built through the county, boosting economic growth.
- 1926 - The iconic Route 66 was established, passing through the county and bringing increased tourism.
- 1930s - The Dust Bowl hit Carson County, leading to severe agricultural and economic challenges.
- 1942 - The Pantex Ordnance Plant was established, becoming a major employer in the area during World War II.
- 1956 - Route 66 was bypassed by Interstate 40, leading to a decline in local businesses.
- 1984 - The last segment of Route 66 in Texas was officially decommissioned.
- Present - Carson County continues to be an important transportation hub with Interstate 40 and a strong agriculture-based economy.