Higgins Cemetery
Graves: 1281 (1889 to present)
Size: 11 acres
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.
The county's early settlers faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, limited resources, and conflicts with Native American tribes. Many early pioneers were drawn to the area for its fertile soil and opportunities for cattle ranching. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought further growth and development to the county.
During the early 20th century, Lipscomb County experienced a boom in agriculture, with cotton and wheat becoming the primary crops. The discovery of oil in the area in the 1920s brought a new wave of prosperity and economic growth. The county saw an increase in population and the establishment of new businesses.
Today, Lipscomb County remains largely rural, with agriculture and oil production continuing to be significant industries. The county's rich history is celebrated through various historical sites and museums, which preserve the stories and heritage of the early settlers who shaped the area.
Lipscomb County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Lipscomb County, Texas.
- 1876 - Lipscomb County was established on August 21, becoming the last of the 254 counties in Texas.
- 1887 - The town of Lipscomb, which would later become the county seat, was founded.
- 1902 - The Northeast Texas Panhandle was opened up for settlement, leading to an influx of farmers and ranchers into Lipscomb County.
- 1907 - The Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway established a line through Lipscomb County, boosting transportation and economic development in the area.
- 1911 - Lipscomb County's first courthouse was built in Lipscomb.
- 1920s - The oil boom hit the Lipscomb County area, bringing prosperity and economic growth.
- 1926 - The town of Lipscomb was incorporated.
- 1940s - The oil industry continued to thrive, and agriculture remained a significant part of the county's economy.
- 1969 - The Lipscomb County Courthouse, which served as the county seat, was destroyed in a fire.
- 1970 - The current courthouse in Lipscomb was built, serving as the county seat.