Historic Cemetery

Helton Cemetery

Kennard, Texas 75847
Location: Helton Cemetery (1977) located about 4 miles back in the woods W of FM 357 between Apple Springs and Kennard. Has good fence and is kept clean.(1998) on TX 7, from Kennard, take FM 357 to aleft run onto 527A; after 1.25 mi turn L onto CR 4675 for .1 mi; cemetery is on the R(USGenWeb) SE of Kenard down FM 357 about 4 mi. Tun R on CR 4685 and L on CR 4675(cemeteries-of-tx.com) photos.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; Supplement to Houston County Texas Cemeteries Third Edition, 1998; USGenWeb Archives; cemeteries-of-tx.com; topo map.THC site visit MB 1-14-05: S of Kennard on FM 4625 for 4.6 miles to FM 4615, turn E for 1.0 mile to FR 527A, sign at intersection, continue on FR 527A for 1.4 miles. :Pine forest. Site approx 20 ft. to E of forestry road. Large fenced site, arched sign in central fence, but not at gate. Adjacent to pastures and forestry road. Site is double fenced with buffer area. Formal markers, including some obelisks, also some petrified wood. Marker shrubs of Gardenia, Azalea, Crape Myrtl, some Narcissus. Possible unmarked graves. Some floral grave materials. Approx 0.34 acre fenced, second buffer fence additional 20 ft. outside of N, E, S site fence. GPs 31.18.28.23326N –95.08.02.35329N USGS 3195-244Low risk of endangerment, double fenced, maintained, on map, on road.

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
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
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.