Llano City Cemetery
Historical marker location:Area residents founded the city of Llano as the county seat for newly-formed Llano County in 1856. By August 1862, with internment of one-year-old Tina Miller, this site served as a burial ground. Seventeen-year-old Emily Young Wright was interred here a few weeks later, and their two gravestones are the earliest marked burials.
The first deed references to the cemetery appear in two transactions from February 1882, when J.R. Green and John C. Oatman conveyed property to five individuals acting as cemetery trustees. As the only surviving trustee by 1906, F.J. Smith conveyed title to the Llano Cemetery Association, which transferred the property to the City of Llano in March 1907. Since that time, the city has maintained and enlarged the burial ground, which continues to serve the community. As the final resting place of several generations, the cemetery is a link to Llano's history. Notable burials include civic leaders, elected officials, military veterans and business owners, as well as Frank Teich, a stonecutter and sculptor known as the father of Texas' granite industry.
Historic Texas Cemetery - 2003
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.
Texas is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
The county was officially founded in 1856, and its name was derived from the Spanish word "llano," meaning plain or flat land. Llano quickly became a center for ranching and farming, with early settlers raising cattle, sheep, and crops such as cotton and corn. The county's population grew steadily over the next few decades, and by the late 1800s, it had become an important hub of commerce and trade in the region.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Llano County experienced several boom and bust cycles, largely tied to the mining industry. The discovery of granite and other minerals in the area led to a period of economic prosperity, with numerous quarrying and mining operations throughout the county. However, these industries eventually declined, leading to a downturn in the local economy.
In recent years, Llano County has focused on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism. The region's natural beauty, including the picturesque Llano River and stunning granite formations, has attracted visitors from across the state and beyond. Today, Llano County is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, unique historical sites, and vibrant arts and culture scene.
Llano County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Llano County, Texas.
- 1852 - Llano County is established by the Texas Legislature.
- 1856 - The county's first permanent settlement, Baby Head, is founded.
- 1860 - Llano becomes the county seat.
- 1873 - The county courthouse is built.
- 1892 - The Llano News, the county's first newspaper, is established.
- 1935 - Enchanted Rock, a massive granite dome, becomes a state park.
- 1965 - Llano County Historical Survey Committee is organized.
- 1993 - The Bluebonnet Trail Scenic Highway is designated.
- 2002 - The Llano River is designated as a Texas state scenic river.