Buckholts Brethren Church
Historical marker location:As early as 1848, Bohemian and Moravian immigrants of the Unity of the Brethren faith arrived in Texas. The Protestant denomination began with Czech reformer John (Jan) Hus, and when Buckholts residents held their first Brethren services in 1894, they used the Czech language. The Rev. Adolph Chlumsky led the first services for the group, which in 1907 formally organized the Czech Moravian Church. Members built a wooden sanctuary at this site in 1913 and used it until dedicating a new structure in 1951, around which time the church began holding services in English. In 1959, the congregation changed its name to Buckholts Brethren Church. It continues to serve as a community focal point. (2006)
The immigration of Czechs to America has a rich history that spans several centuries. Here is a brief timeline highlighting key moments in Czech immigration to America:
1848: The Revolutions of 1848 across Europe, including the Austrian Empire (which included Bohemia and Moravia), sparked political and social unrest. As a result, some Czechs sought political refuge in the United States.
1850s: The first significant wave of Czech immigration to the United States begins. Many Czechs, primarily from Bohemia and Moravia, settle in areas such as Texas, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
1862: The Homestead Act, which offered free land to settlers, attracts Czech immigrants to the American Midwest, particularly to farming communities in Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Late 19th to early 20th century: The peak period of Czech immigration to America. Economic opportunities and escape from political oppression and economic hardship in the Austro-Hungarian Empire drive large numbers of Czechs to emigrate. Many settle in urban areas like Chicago, New York City, and Cleveland, forming vibrant Czech-American communities.
1918: The creation of Czechoslovakia as an independent nation following World War I leads to a decrease in Czech immigration to the United States, as some Czechs choose to return to their homeland.
1930s to 1940s: The rise of Nazi Germany and subsequent occupation of Czechoslovakia during World War II prompt a new wave of Czech immigrants, including Jewish refugees fleeing persecution.
1948: The Communist Party takes control of Czechoslovakia in a coup, leading to further waves of Czech emigration to the United States as people seek political freedom and economic opportunities.
1968: The Prague Spring, a period of political liberalization in Czechoslovakia, is met with Soviet military intervention. In its aftermath, many Czech intellectuals, artists, and professionals leave the country, seeking asylum in the United States and other Western countries.
1989: The Velvet Revolution, a peaceful transition of power in Czechoslovakia, ushers in a new era of democracy and freedom. Czech immigration to the United States continues, although at a reduced rate compared to earlier waves.
Today, Czech Americans form a vibrant community in the United States, contributing to various fields such as arts, sciences, business, and politics. Their cultural heritage is celebrated through festivals, organizations, and Czech language schools throughout the country.
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 known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
In 1825, the Mexican government issued land grants in the region, attracting a wave of American immigrants to the area. In 1834, the Mexican government designated Milam County as a separate municipality, and it was named after Benjamin Rush Milam, a prominent Texas revolutionary. After the Texas Revolution in 1836, the region experienced continuous growth and development.
During the mid-19th century, agriculture became the primary industry in Milam County, with cotton being the dominant crop. Many plantations were established, relying on slave labor until the abolition of slavery in 1865. The county also saw the establishment of several small towns, including Cameron, Rockdale, and Buckholts, which served as centers of trade and commerce.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the arrival of the railroad played a significant role in the county's development. The expansion of rail lines allowed for easier transportation of goods and people, boosting the local economy. The county experienced periods of prosperity and setbacks, including the Great Depression, but managed to rebound and adapt to changing economic conditions.
Today, Milam County remains an agricultural hub, known for its production of cotton, corn, and livestock. It is also home to scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and a vibrant community that values its history and heritage. The county continues to evolve, embracing new opportunities while preserving its cultural roots.
Milam County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Milam County, Texas.
- 1824 - Milam County is part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas
- 1837 - The Republic of Texas establishes Milam County as a separate entity
- 1846 - Milam County is officially part of the state of Texas after the Texas Annexation
- 1860s - Milam County experiences a surge in population and economic growth due to the railroad expansion
- 1874 - Cameron is selected as the county seat of Milam County
- 1940s-1950s - Milam County becomes an important hub for oil and gas production
- 1960s-1970s - Milam County faces economic decline due to the decrease in oil and gas production
- 1990s - Milam County experiences some economic revitalization through tourism and the establishment of new industries