Lynn Creek Cemetery
This burial ground has served area residents since early pioneers came here in the mid-19th century. Settlers arrived by the 1850s and by the 1870s, the community of Squaw Mountain developed. Squaw Mountain had a number of institutions at its peak; today, this cemetery is one of the few remaining vestiges of the former settlement.
This burial ground dates to 1878, when a cowboy was buried here. That same year, pioneer John Jackson and infant Henry Henyan were also interred. As the nearby farming and ranching community grew, residents continued to use the graveyard. In 1898, Gabe Washburn, John Allen Jackson and Tom Allen purchased property for the burial ground and organized the Lynn Creek Cemetery Association, serving as trustees.
Many early area pioneers and their descendants are buried in Lynn Creek Cemetery. Others interred here include veterans of conflicts dating to the civil war, teachers, pastors, farmers, ranchers and other community residents.
This cemetery contains woodmen of the world markers, sarcophaguses, stone cairns, vertical stones, curbing and grave slabs. In 1912, residents built a tabernacle (replaced in 1991); later additions, which were the result of generous donations, include a rock chapel (1951) and water well (1991). Today, the cemetery association continues to care for the burial ground, which serves as a reminder of the pioneers of Squaw Mountain and the surrounding area
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.
The first European-American settlers arrived in the area in the 1850s, drawn by the fertile land and abundant game. In 1856, the county was officially organized and the town of Jacksboro was established as the county seat. During this time, conflicts with Native American tribes were common, and several forts were constructed to protect the settlers, including Fort Richardson near Jacksboro.
The county played a significant role in the Civil War, with many residents joining Confederate forces. In 1862, a bloody battle known as the Battle of Dove Creek took place in Jack County, where Confederates clashed with a combination of Union troops and Native American allies.
After the war, Jack County experienced growth and development. Ranching became a primary economic activity, as the region was well-suited for cattle ranching. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, oil was discovered in the county, leading to a boom in the local economy.
Today, Jack County still maintains its agricultural heritage, with ranching and oil production remaining important industries. The county is also known for its rich historical sites, including Fort Richardson State Park, which preserves the history of the region's military past.
Jack County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Jack County, Texas.
- 1857 - Jack County is established by the Texas legislature.
- 1858 - Fort Richardson is established near present-day Jacksboro.
- 1864 - Battle of Dove Creek takes place between Confederate and Union forces in the county.
- 1871 - Texas & Pacific Railroad reaches Jacksboro, boosting the local economy.
- 1872 - Jacksboro is designated as the county seat.
- 1883 - Chisholm Trail, used for cattle drives, passes through the county.
- 1907 - Oil is discovered in Jack County, leading to a boom in the local economy.
- 1919 - Jacksboro tornado causes significant damage and loss of life.
- 1936 - Construction of Possum Kingdom Lake is completed.
- 1950s - 1960s - The decline of the oil industry affects the county's economy.
- 1990s - Present - Jack County focuses on diversifying its economy through tourism and agriculture.