Historical Marker

Trinidad Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Trinidad, Texas
( Trinidad is located about 16 miles west of Athens on Hwy. 31. Turn left on FM 764; follow through town; turn right on Eaton Street and follow to the dead end.)
Marker installed: 2013
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

On January 30, 1869, Onslow M. Airheart (1834-1883) purchased 1476 acres on the bank of the Trinity River. Airheart was an early pioneer to Henderson County, served as a 1st lieutenant for the Confederate Army and owned and operated a ferry for many years. His wife, Mary, died in 1874 and was buried across the river from their property in Navarro County. Airheart wanted to be buried next to his wife but, when Airheart died on December 22, 1883, he was buried on his property due to flooding conditions.

Airheart’s estate was divided among his remaining family. In the early 1920s, the Texas Power and Llight Company purchased around 1700 acres of land that included the Airheart Private Cemetery. The company agreed to provide additional acreage to establish a city cemetery for the town of Trinidad. Additional acreage was added in 1974 and 2002. A cemented floor pavilion and a brick entrance was added.

Airheart’s twin brother, Moses C. Airheart (1834-1887), a Civil War veteran, is buried here along with their half-brother, Charles Wesley Airheart (1854-1911). Many of their descendants are buried at the Trinidad Cemetery. Moses Airheart’s grandson, Onclo Merel Airheart (1918-2001), a highly decorated World War II hero who fought alongside Audie Murphy, is also buried here. Another family buried here is the Pulley family. The Pulleys were very involved in the growth of the town of Trinidad. This historic cemetery transformed from a small family cemetery to the Trinidad City Cemetery and is a testament to generations past

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
Henderson County, located in the northeastern part of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history. Before the arrival of European settlers, the area was home to various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. The land became a part of the Republic of Texas in 1836 and was formally organized as Henderson County in 1846, named in honor of James Pinckney Henderson, the first governor of Texas.

In the mid-19th century, Henderson County experienced a significant influx of settlers, mainly from the southern United States. These settlers primarily engaged in agriculture, taking advantage of the fertile soils and favorable climate to grow crops such as cotton, corn, and vegetables. The first county seat was established in Athens, which remains the county seat to this day.

During the Civil War, Henderson County, like much of the South, was affected by the conflict. Although there were no significant battles fought in the area, the war had a profound impact on the local economy and social fabric. Many men from Henderson County enlisted in the Confederate Army, and the war's aftermath brought significant challenges and changes to the region.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henderson County continued to thrive, with the agricultural industry playing a pivotal role in the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further bolstered economic development, facilitating the transportation of goods and increasing opportunities for trade. Over time, other industries such as manufacturing and healthcare also emerged. Today, Henderson County remains a vibrant community, preserving its rich heritage while embracing progress and growth.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Henderson County, Texas.

  • 1846 - Henderson County established as a county of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1850 - First census conducted, showing a population of 1,714.
  • 1851 - Athens becomes the county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Henderson County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1880 - Cotton production becomes a major industry in the county.
  • 1902 - The first oil well is drilled in the county, leading to the development of the oil industry.
  • 1930s-1940s - Henderson County experiences economic growth due to the construction of the Cross Lake Dam and the establishment of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Fish Hatchery and Fish Experiment Station.
  • 1960s-1970s - Lake Palestine and Cedar Creek Lake are created, attracting tourism and real estate development.
  • 1987 - The Henderson County Courthouse is destroyed by fire but is rebuilt and restored.
  • 2000 - The population of Henderson County reaches 73,277.
  • 2019 - Henderson County celebrates its 173rd anniversary since establishment.