Historical Marker

Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Cestohowa, Texas
( CR 245, Cestohowa)
Marker installed: 2000
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Jacob Lyssy (1837-1880) and John Pawlik, Jr. (1845-1912) of the Czestochowa parish each donated one acre of land to Bishop Anthony D. Pellicer of the Archdiocese of San Antonio to be used as a burial ground for the newly established Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church at Czestochowa (later spelled Cestohowa). The town also was known as St. Joe because of the St. Joseph Catholic School there. Early graves were often unmarked, or their markers were displaced. The earliest marked grave is that of Franciscus Gawlik, who died in August 1878. Spanish influenza attacked the lives of many Texans during the epidemic of 1918 to 1920. Several graves date from that period, including those of Frances Moczygemba Gawlik and three of her children, who died in the same week of March, 1920. Most grave markers were inscribed in Polish until the 1930s. Among the graves of interest are those of many persons who were instrumental in the formation of the Czestochowa parish. The Rev. Stanislaus Przyborowski (1872-1957) served the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church for 35 years and established several other Catholic churches in the area. The Rev. Edward Dworaczyk (1906-1965) was the author of many Polish history books. Of the more than 75 military veterans interred here by the year 2000, several served in the Confederate Army. Others served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. At the dawn of the 21st century there were 864 graves in this cemetery. Various caretakers and volunteer labor continued to maintain the site, which remains a chronicle of Polish American settlement in Texas. (2000)

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 Polish immigrants immigration Roman Catholic denomination
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Texas random facts
Karnes County, located in south-central Texas, has a rich and varied history. The area was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa. Evidence of their presence can still be found through archaeological sites and artifacts. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries began to settle in the region, establishing several missions. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that Karnes County began to see significant development.

In the mid-1800s, Karnes County became an important center for the cattle industry. Large ranches began to emerge, and the county became a hub for cattle drives. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted the local economy, offering new opportunities for trade and transportation. With the influx of settlers, new towns were established, including the county seat of Karnes City.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Karnes County experienced several oil booms, which brought prosperity and economic growth to the area. The discovery of oil in nearby fields, such as the Pettus and Helena fields, attracted numerous oil companies and workers. This led to a surge in population and a construction boom in the county, with new buildings and businesses appearing throughout the area.

In recent decades, Karnes County has continued to be influenced by its strong ties to agriculture and oil. The agricultural sector remains a vital part of the local economy, with ranching and farming playing a significant role. Oil and gas production, while fluctuating, still contribute to the county's economy. Today, Karnes County is known for its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, attracting visitors to explore its historical sites, parks, and thriving small communities.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Karnes County, Texas.

  • 1824 - Karnes County is established as a municipality in Mexico's Coahuila y Tejas state.
  • 1830s - Settlers from the United States begin arriving in the area, including the town of Helena.
  • 1834 - Karnes County is officially organized under the Republic of Mexico.
  • 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico, and Karnes County becomes a part of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1854 - The county's seat of government is moved from Helena to Karnes City.
  • 1861-1865 - Karnes County residents participate in the American Civil War, with some serving in Confederate forces.
  • 1885 - The Gulf, Western Texas and Pacific Railway is completed, providing easier transportation access to the county.
  • 1902 - The discovery of oil in Karnes County leads to economic growth and development in the area.
  • 1920s-1930s - The county experiences periods of prosperity and decline due to changes in the oil industry.
  • 1940 - U.S. Army establishes the Karnes City Army Air Field, which later becomes the site of the Karnes County Airport.
  • 1954 - Hurricane Alice causes significant damage to Karnes County.
  • 1970s-1990s - The oil industry continues to play a significant role in the county's economy.
  • 2010 - The Eagle Ford Shale boom brings renewed economic growth to Karnes County.