Historic Cemetery

Fairfield Cemetery

Texas
Location: Fairfield CemeteryUSGS. Polk Co Tx Cem/website: Location: “Approx. 1 mile from the intersection of SH 350 & FM 3156 in the Colita Community. Condition: Endangered!!! This cemetery is at risk of being 'lost', due to overgrowth of vegetation and damage from fallen trees. About 15 graves. Index, earliest about 1911.” L. Moore: Hwy 190 W, right on Hwy 350 for 9.5 mniles, left at 3152, 0.5 miles on right in woods.” Local history note 2002, site endangered.THC site visit MB 1-27-05: Livingston, Tx area. FM 350 to FM 3152 for 0.35 mile, dirt lane to N, R about 0.1 mile, site on R as lane bends into wooded area, 230 ft. from intersection with FM 3152. Fenced site, metal gate. Large fallen tree near entrance carved into entranceway. Formal site with obelisks, some commercial mortuary stones, many large vertical fieldstones and petrified wood markers. Metal chairs. Wooden white crosses. Survey flags indicate unmarked graves. Some floral. May still be in use, ambiguous. Some Oak trees, no obvious marker trees. Approx 0.42 acreGPS 30.51.27.44127N –94.59.49.23285W USGS 3094-332Low risk of endangerment, fenced, maintained, on road, on map, may still be in use.

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
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Texas random facts
Polk County, Texas, located in the eastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history dating back to indigenous peoples who inhabited the area for thousands of years. The region was settled by European explorers in the early 1800s, with the establishment of Stephen F. Austin's colony. Polk County was officially formed in 1846, named after the former United States President James K. Polk.

During the 19th century, the county witnessed significant developments, including the arrival of railroads in the late 1800s, which led to economic growth and an influx of settlers. Timber became the county's most important resource, and the lumber industry boomed, fueled by abundant pine forests. Sawmills and logging camps thrived, shaping the county's economy for many years.

The county's history also includes periods of strife. During the Civil War, Polk County experienced its fair share of conflict, with many residents joining the Confederate army. Additionally, the county suffered from occasional raids by Native American tribes, seeking to regain their land and resist encroachment.

In the 20th century, Polk County continued to progress, with further advancements in transportation and industry. The construction of dams on the Trinity River provided hydroelectric power and created recreational opportunities with the formation of Lake Livingston. Agriculture also played a significant role, particularly in the production of livestock and crops such as cotton.

Today, Polk County is a mix of rural communities and growing suburban areas. Its proximity to Houston has attracted residents looking for a quieter way of life while still having access to urban amenities. The county remains influenced by its past, with reminders of its rich history visible in the form of historic sites, museums, and landmarks that showcase the diverse and fascinating story of Polk County.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Polk County, Texas.

  • 1846 - Polk County, Texas is established.
  • Mid-1800s - Early settlers arrive, primarily farmers and ranchers.
  • Late 1800s - Logging and lumber industry becomes prominent.
  • 1881 - Trinity and Sabine Valley Railway reaches the county, boosting trade and transportation.
  • Early 1900s - Oil and gas exploration begins in the county.
  • 1930s-1940s - The Great Depression and World War II bring economic challenges.
  • 1957 - Lake Livingston is completed, becoming a popular recreational area.
  • 1980s - Tourism and retirement industries grow in the county.
  • 2000s - Population and economic growth continue.