Historical Marker

Ladonia Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Ladonia, Texas
( N. Church St. (near intersection of 200 Church and 200 Paris St.)
Marker installed: 1988
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The principal burial ground for members of the Ladonia community, this graveyard has historically been divided into two sections: The I.O.O.F. (Odd Fellows) Cemetery and the Presbyterian Cemetery.

The oldest recorded grave, that of Joe Shelby (d. 1866), infant daughter of J. E. and S. T. Shelby, is located in the Presbyterian Cemetery section. Also in that section is the "Stranger's Tomb," marking the grave of an unknown traveler who died in October 1867. Another early burial is that of William Lovelace Foster (1830-1869), Civil War veteran and pastor of Ladonia's first Baptist church at the time of his death.

The I.O.O.F. section of the cemetery was originally maintained by the local Odd Fellows Lodge. The earliest recorded grave there is that of Mrs. P. T. (Marie) Hockaday (1838-1881). The Lodge continued to care for its section of the cemetery until about 1902, when management of the two sections of the graveyard were merged.

Those interred in the Ladonia Cemetery include veterans of the Civil War, World War I, and World War II, as well as early settlers of the area, Fannin County officials, and many generations of Ladonia citizens

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
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Texas random facts
Fannin County, Texas is located in the northeastern part of the state and has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was established in 1837 and was named after James Fannin, a prominent figure in Texas's fight for independence from Mexico. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Choctaw, before European settlers began to venture into the region.

During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Fannin County played a significant role in the struggle for independence. The Battle of Village Creek took place in the county, where Texian troops clashed with Mexican forces. Although the Texians won the battle, the conflict ultimately led to the massacre of James Fannin and his men at Goliad. This event became a rallying cry for Texan independence and solidarity.

In the following years, Fannin County experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s expanded trade and transportation, leading to increased prosperity. Agriculture became the backbone of the county's economy, with cotton, corn, and cattle production taking center stage. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century further contributed to the region's economic growth.

Throughout its history, Fannin County has faced challenges, including natural disasters such as devastating floods in the late 1800s and early 1900s. However, the resilient community has always managed to recover and rebuild. Today, Fannin County is a thriving area, known for its rich history, charming small towns, and agricultural heritage.

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

  • 1836: Fannin County is established as a county of Texas.
  • 1837: The county's first courthouse is constructed in the town of Warren.
  • 1839: The county seat is moved to the town of Bois d'Arc.
  • 1843: The county seat is relocated again, this time to Bonham.
  • 1845: Texas becomes a state, and Fannin County is officially recognized as part of the state.
  • 1858: Construction of a new courthouse in Bonham is completed.
  • 1861-1865: Fannin County experiences the impact of the American Civil War.
  • 1872: The first railroad is completed in the county, boosting economic growth.
  • 1886: A devastating fire destroys much of downtown Bonham, resulting in a significant rebuilding effort.
  • 1896: The Texas State Normal College is established in Bonham, later renamed Texas A&M University-Commerce.
  • 1905: Construction of a new courthouse in Bonham is completed.
  • 1930s: Fannin County experiences an economic decline during the Great Depression.
  • 1940s-1950s: Fannin County sees growth and development due to World War II and the subsequent post-war economic boom.
  • 1994: The county's current courthouse, a historic and architectural landmark, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.