Historic Cemetery

Ford Family Cemetery

811 County Rd 2004, Newton, Texas 75966

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.

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
Newton County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapans and the Caddo people. The arrival of European settlers in the early 19th century led to conflicts between the Native Americans and the newcomers.

In 1836, Newton County was officially established and named after John Newton, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The county's geographical location, with its fertile land and proximity to major waterways, attracted many settlers, particularly from Southern states. The region's economy was largely based on agriculture, with cotton and timber being major industries.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the discovery of oil and gas brought prosperity to Newton County. The oil boom transformed the county, attracting numerous oil companies, creating jobs, and boosting the local economy. However, the boom eventually declined, leading to a shift back to agriculture and timber as the primary sources of income.

Throughout its history, Newton County has been shaped by both natural and man-made disasters. The county has been prone to hurricanes and floods, with devastating effects on the community. In recent years, efforts have been made to implement flood control measures and improve disaster preparedness.

Today, Newton County remains a rural area with a population that values its rich history and natural beauty. It continues to be a place of agriculture, timber, and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors with its scenic landscapes and wildlife. The county's history and resilience serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by its residents and the strength of the community.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Newton County, Texas.

  • 1846 - Newton County is established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1870s - The county experiences growth due to the expansion of the lumber industry.
  • 1904 - A devastating fire destroys a significant portion of the town of Newton.
  • 1907 - Bon Wier is established as a sawmill town.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county.
  • 1940 - The Toledo Bend Reservoir is constructed, resulting in the flooding of parts of Newton County.
  • 1960s - The construction of the Toledo Bend Dam leads to increased tourism and recreational activities in the county.
  • 1990s - Newton County experiences population growth due to its proximity to the Toledo Bend Reservoir.
  • 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county.