Historical Marker

Pidcoke Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Gatesville vicinity, Texas
( 13 miles south of Gatesville on FM 116, then 0.7 miles west on CR 142)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Serving the rural Pidcoke and Harman communities, this cemetery dates to at least 1885, the year six-year-old Mattie Jeter was buried here after dying in a fall from a wagon. Local landowners H. S. (Tip) Perryman and W. H. Belcher formally deeded portions of their land for a community graveyard in 1896, and members of both the Perryman and Belcher families are interred here. The Pidcoke community was named for English colonist the Rev. Richard Burton Pidcocke's sons, Hartley and Reginald, who began a successful ranching enterprise in the area in 1857. Stock raising and other agricultural pursuits sustained the economy until the acquisition of land for Camp Hood in 1942 resulted in the relocation of many families. Generations of families are buried in the Pidcoke Cemetery, including that of H. S. Perryman, a native of Arkansas, who drove cattle to Kansas and served as Coryell County tax assessor (1876-1886). Perryman died in 1897, soon after donating land for the cemetery. Others interred here include veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War Ii, Korea and Vietnam. The Pidcoke Cemetery Association, dating to at least 1936, cares for the cemetery. The association has conducted a census of the cemetery, worked to provide markers for unmarked graves and acquired additional land in 1985. The graveyard remains in use as a reminder of Pidcoke's settlement and heritage. (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.

gravesites
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.
Texas random facts
Coryell County, located in central Texas, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, and Comanche. The first European explorers arrived in the 18th century, with the Spanish establishing missions in the region. However, it was not until the mid-19th century that permanent settlements began to develop.

During the Texas Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of Texas, Coryell County saw significant growth. The area attracted pioneers and settlers who were drawn by the fertile land along the rivers. In 1854, the county was officially organized and named after James Coryell, an early frontiersman who was known for exploring and surveying the area.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Coryell County experienced periods of prosperity and challenges. Agriculture, particularly cotton production, played a significant role in the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century enhanced the county's connectivity and spurred growth in trade and commerce.

The county also contributed to the military history of Texas. During World War II, Camp Hood (now Fort Hood) was established in the southern part of Coryell County. The military installation has had a profound impact on the local economy, serving as an economic engine and a significant employer for the region.

Today, Coryell County continues to thrive as a vibrant community. It is home to a diverse population and offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The county's rich history can be seen in its historic buildings, museums, and landmarks, all of which provide a glimpse into the past and contribute to the county's unique cultural identity.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Coryell County, Texas.

  • 1854 - Coryell County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1859 - The county seat, Gatesville, is established.
  • 1861-1865 - The American Civil War impacts Coryell County, leading to economic hardships.
  • 1872 - The Texas Central Railroad is completed, boosting the county's economy.
  • 1882 - The first county courthouse is constructed.
  • 1905 - The original county courthouse is replaced with a new building.
  • 1929 - The Coryell County Museum opens, showcasing the area's history.
  • 1942-1946 - The county experiences growth during World War II due to the establishment of Camp Hood (now Fort Hood).
  • 1963 - The current county courthouse is built, replacing the 1905 building.
  • 1997 - The Coryell County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.