Historical Marker

Chief Samuel Benge

Historical marker location:
Jacksonville vicinity, Texas
( 4.2 miles north of Jacksonville on US 69, then 5 miles west on FM 855 and 2 miles north on FM 2137 to CR 3601)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 18" x 28"

A leader of the Cherokee Indians in Texas during the 1830s, Samuel Benge was present at the negotiations with General Sam Houston, John Cameron and John Forbes in early 1836 to secure a treaty with the Cherokee in return for neutrality during the imminent war for independence from Mexico. As a condition of the resulting Houston-Forbes Treaty, the Cherokee were to occupy specific lands in east Texas, and Chief Benge, a signer of the treaty, was required to move east across the Neches River into what is now Cherokee County. The Cherokee upheld their part of the treaty during the war, but the Republic of Texas senate later nullified the treaty, a step toward the ultimate removal of the Cherokees from Texas. (2001)

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.

Native American
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Texas random facts
Cherokee County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Kickapoo, and Cherokee. In the early 19th century, settlers from the United States began to arrive in the region, resulting in conflicts with the indigenous populations.

In 1837, the Texas Congress established Cherokee County, named after the Cherokee people, who had settled in the area. The county seat was initially located in the town of Rusk, which had grown as a result of the influx of settlers. Over the years, the county went through various changes, with the establishment of new towns and the growth of the local economy. Agriculture, particularly cotton and livestock farming, became the backbone of the county's economy.

During the Civil War, the county faced significant hardships as many men from Cherokee County enlisted in the Confederate Army. The economy suffered, and the county experienced both political and social unrest. However, following the war, the region gradually recovered, and new industries such as lumbering and oil exploration emerged.

In the 20th century, Cherokee County witnessed significant changes in its economy and demographics. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s brought an economic boom to the area, attracting new businesses and residents. Today, the county continues to thrive, with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county also pays tribute to its Native American heritage through various cultural and historical organizations.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cherokee County, Texas.

  • 1846: Cherokee County is created and organized.
  • 1847: The town of Rusk is designated as the county seat.
  • 1850s: The area sees conflicts between the Cherokee and local settlers.
  • 1861-1865: Cherokee County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.
  • 1872: The International-Great Northern Railroad is built through Rusk, boosting the local economy.
  • 1900: The discovery of the large Berry gypsum deposit leads to the establishment of the Frankston Gypsum Company.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression causes significant economic challenges for Cherokee County.
  • 1942: Camp Fannin, a World War II army training camp, is established in Cherokee County.
  • 1982: Lake Palestine is completed, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • Present: Cherokee County continues to be a vibrant community with a mix of agricultural, industrial, and recreational activities.