Historical Marker

Williams Ranch Cemetery

Historical marker location:
CR 508 - Williams Ranch Road, Mullin, Texas
( 4.5 miles SE of Mullin)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 18" x 28"

THIS HISTORIC CEMETERY OVERLOOKS THE NATURAL SPRINGS THAT WERE ONCE THE FRONTIER SETTLEMENT KNOWN AS WILLIAMS RANCH ON LAND GRANTED TO WILLIAM W. WILLIAMS IN 1852. IN 1855, JOHN WILLIAMS AND WIFE ANNIE EPLEY WILLIAMS MOVED TO THIS AREA AND FOUNDED THE WILLIAMS RANCH SETTLEMENT. THE FIRST MARKED GRAVE DATES TO 1864 AND IS THAT OF SIX-YEAR-OLD C.K. CONNER, GREAT-GRANDSON OF JOHN WILLIAMS, WHO DIED FROM A HORSE ACCIDENT. A VARIETY OF HEADSTONES INCLUDING GRANITE, LIMESTONE AND CAST IRON MARK THE GRAVES OF MANY PIONEERS, EARLY SETTLERS AND THEIR DESCENDANTS ALONG WITH VETERANS FROM THE CIVIL WAR TO THE KOREAN WAR. ORGANIZED IN 1968, THE WILLIAMS RANCH CEMETERY ASSOCIATION MAINTAINS THE CEMETERY

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
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Texas random facts
Mills County, located in central Texas, has a rich history dating back to the prehistoric era. Archeological evidence suggests that Native American tribes inhabited the region as early as 10,000 BCE. The Tonkawa and Lipan Apache tribes were among the original indigenous groups to settle in the area. However, with the arrival of European settlers in the 19th century, their way of life was dramatically altered.

In 1854, Mills County was officially established by the Texas legislature and named after John T. Mills, a lawyer and soldier who fought in the Texas Revolution. The county's development was primarily driven by agriculture, with cotton becoming the dominant crop. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted the local economy, enabling the transportation of goods and facilitating trade.

With its rich soil and favorable climate, Mills County prospered throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, like many rural areas during this time, it faced challenges such as droughts, economic downturns, and the Great Depression. These hardships impacted the county's agricultural sector and led to a decline in population.

Despite these challenges, Mills County has maintained its unique character and close-knit community throughout the years. Today, it is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The county continues to be influenced by its agricultural heritage while embracing the modern era, making it an interesting and dynamic place to live and visit.

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

  • 1837 - Mills County is established and named after Texas Governor Branch Tanner Archer.
  • 1849 - Gold is discovered in the county, leading to a short-lived gold rush.
  • 1854 - Mills County becomes a part of the newly formed Brown County.
  • 1876 - Mills County is reestablished as an independent county.
  • 1880 - The county seat is established in Goldthwaite.
  • 1920s - The oil industry has a significant impact on the local economy.
  • 1947 - Mills County celebrates its centennial.
  • 1965 - A severe flood causes significant damage to the county.
  • 1990s - The county experiences economic growth due to an increase in tourism.
  • 2018 - Mills County celebrates its 181st anniversary.