Historical Marker

Brewer Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Brewer Cemetery Rd., Cushing, Texas
( Cushing, 4.3 mi. on Hwy 223 toward Douglass, left 2.3 mi. on CR 343 in Looneyville, turn right on Brewer Cemetery Road, 150 yards to gate)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In January 1835, the Mexican Government approved Henry Brewer’s application for a league of land (4,000 acres). Early settlers built log cabins near springs. The primary activities were farming, raising livestock, and mining iron on Flowery Mountain. The peak, also known as Brewer Mountain, Iron Mountain and Panther Mountain, was part of Henry Brewer’s land and he built a home on top of the mountain. Henry and Susannah had eleven children, and when they moved from Mississippi with their younger children, many of their older children and their families also came to texas. Henry Brewer’s estate was probated after his death in 1867 and the land divided among the heirs, except for the family cemetery.

The cemetery provides a record of early Texas settlers, including veterans of the Texas War of Independence and the Civil War. Henry Brewer and his son John fought in the Battle of Nacogdoches in 1832. Henry Mitchel Brewer fought in the Battle of San Jacinto and John Brewer later served in the Confederacy. In 1936, the state of Texas erected a centennial marker honoring the contributions of the Brewer family to the settlement and history of Texas. It also serves as a grave marker for Henry, Susannah and Henry Mitchel Brewer. After the last burial in 1977 the cemetery became overgrown and forgotten, and many limestone markers were weathered and broken. Descendants agreed to restore and maintain the cemetery during a family reunion in 2001, incorporating the Brewer Cemetery Association of Nacogdoches County the following year. There is evidence of at least 50 unmarked graves. The cemetery is a chronicle of families who carved their homes and livelihoods from the surrounding forests and waterways

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 world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Nacogdoches County, Texas has a rich and deeply rooted history. The area's first inhabitants were indigenous Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Lipan Apache. European exploration reached the region in the early 18th century, with Spanish explorers establishing missions and settlements. Nacogdoches, founded in 1779, is the oldest town in Texas and served as a vital center for trade and commerce during the Spanish and Mexican periods.

During the Texas Revolution, Nacogdoches County played a significant role. It became a hotbed of support for the Texian cause, hosting important political meetings and serving as a training ground for volunteers. In 1836, General Sam Houston rallied troops in Nacogdoches before leading them to victory in the Battle of San Jacinto, securing Texas' independence from Mexico.

The county's economy flourished in the mid-19th century, driven by the booming lumber industry. Abundant pine forests attracted sawmills, leading Nacogdoches to become known as the "Gateway City to the Piney Woods." Railroads further facilitated economic growth, linking the area to major markets and fueling the development of thriving towns.

In the 20th century, Nacogdoches County continued to evolve, diversifying its economy beyond lumber and timber. The establishment of Stephen F. Austin State University in 1923 brought educational and cultural opportunities to the area. Today, Nacogdoches County retains its rich historical character while embracing modernization, attracting visitors with its vibrant downtown, historical sites, and natural beauty.

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

  • 1721 - Spanish settlers establish a mission called Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe de los Nacogdoches, marking the earliest European presence in the area.
  • 1779 - Nacogdoches becomes the easternmost settlement in Spanish Texas when the Spanish government authorizes the town's relocation.
  • 1826 - Mexican authorities officially separate Nacogdoches from the Department of Bexar and establish it as a municipality.
  • 1836 - The Battle of Nacogdoches occurs during the Texas Revolution, with Texian forces defeating Mexican troops.
  • 1838 - Nacogdoches becomes the first English-speaking settlement to be incorporated by the Republic of Texas.
  • 1845 - Nacogdoches County is established as one of the original counties of the newly admitted state of Texas.
  • 1870 - The arrival of railroads spurs economic growth and development in Nacogdoches County.
  • 1902 - Stephen F. Austin State Normal School (now Stephen F. Austin State University) is established in Nacogdoches.
  • 1938 - The Texas State Railroad begins operating, providing transportation for timber and passengers.
  • 1986 - The Nacogdoches Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1989 - The Texas Legislature designates Nacogdoches as the "Oldest Town in Texas" due to its long history of continuous settlement.
  • 2005 - Nacogdoches experiences significant damage and power outages due to Hurricane Rita.
  • 2010 - The population of Nacogdoches County reaches over 64,000 residents.