Historic Cemetery

Glenwood South Cemetery, Black

a.k.a. Old Glenwood Black Cemetery

Crockett, Texas
Location: See Glenwood N.(USGenWeb) Black section in SE quadrant of Glenwood North [Glenwood South?]. Had been neglected and overgorwn until massive clean up in 1985 that recovered many burial sites. THC marker; A Reference to Texas Cemetery Records, Kim Parsons, 1988; Houston County Cemeteries, Houston county Historical Commission, 1977; Houston County Cemeteries, Third Edition, Houston County Historical Commission, 1987; USGS; Supplement to Houston County Texas Cemeteries Third Edition, 1998; USGenWeb Archives; topo mapTHC site visit MB 12-08-04: Crockett, Tx. Pease Rd, 2nd St., just W of US 287. SE quadrant of Glenwood South Cem, white section. Rolling landscape, hill. Separate entrance and access road on E side (now back) behind residential area. Fenced site, formal and informal markers, considerable diversity over time. African American section distinct by diversity of markers, more recent burials, also abundance for floral and decorative grave materials. Formal markers include obelisks, fielstones, locally caste markers, homemade markers, some curbing, carnes, one walled grave, unique constructions, folk marker, natural and engraved fieldstones, crosses. Marker trees and shrubs, Cedar, Juniper, Live Oak, Oaks, Laurel, Irises, Lilies, Narcissus. US veterans, Masonic. Some evidence and reports of past vandalism. Approx 1.40 acres. GPS 31.19.13.47457N –95.27.35.17702WUSGS 3195-132Moderate risk of endangerment, some erosion, some fence damage, but maintained, visitation, on map.

Source: RIP Fields Table

To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.

The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.

A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.

gravesites
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Texas random facts
Houston County, Texas, located in the eastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area that is now Houston County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Atakapa, who lived off the lands and waterways. However, the first European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 19th century, sparking a new chapter in the region's history.

In 1838, Houston County was officially established and named after Sam Houston, a prominent figure in the Texas Revolution and later the Republic of Texas. The county became a focal point during this time, with numerous conflicts between settlers and Native American tribes, as well as various clashes involving Mexican troops.

During the mid-19th century, Houston County experienced rapid growth and development, as many settlers were attracted to the area's fertile soil and abundant natural resources. Immigrants from various European countries, such as Germany and Austria, arrived in large numbers, contributing to the cultural diversity of the county. Additionally, the construction of railroads in the late 1800s played a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and connecting Houston County to neighboring regions.

In the 20th century, Houston County faced several challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the timber industry. However, the discovery of oil in neighboring counties brought new economic opportunities to the region and provided a much-needed boost to Houston County's economy. Today, Houston County continues to thrive as a vibrant rural community, with a rich history that is celebrated through numerous historic sites, museums, and events that showcase its past.

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

  • 1837 - Houston County is created and organized from Nacogdoches County.
  • 1839 - The county seat, Crockett, is established and named after David Crockett.
  • 1854 - The Houston and Great Northern Railroad is built through the county, boosting economic development.
  • 1861-1865 - Houston County residents actively participate in the Civil War.
  • 1881 - The discovery of oil in the county leads to an oil boom.
  • 1893 - The Houston County courthouse is destroyed by fire.
  • 1936 - The Texas State Park Board establishes Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.
  • 1968 - Hurricane Beulah causes significant damage to the county.
  • 2008 - Hurricane Ike causes widespread destruction and power outages in the area.
  • 2020 - Houston County celebrates its 183rd anniversary.