Abbott Springs Meadows Cemetery
This pioneer graveyard served the early settlement of Asia in what was previously Trinity county. In 1835, Samuel Crissman received a headright of land on Peses (Paces) Creek, and by the 1850s the community of Asia developed. W. Elias and Susan (Towns) meadows were here by 1853, joined later by the Amos and Cynthia (Johnson) Snell and James and Milley Ann (Silcox) Standley families. James Standley’s cabinet and blacksmith shops became the nucleus of the Asia community. The Abbott Springs Meadows Cemetery was likely located on either the Standley or Meadows property. In the mid-1880s, the Trinity and Sabine Railway built through the area and the Sam Allen Lumber Company of Houston constructed a sawmill at Asia. Many new residents arrived, and a school was built to serve the children of the loggers and millworkers. The decline of the lumber industry, due to overharvesting of the timber before 1910, led to the demise of the community.
The earliest gravestones here are no longer legible, with several burials marked by fieldstones. The oldest dated burial, of RoxieJ. Standley, dates from January 1868. All graves face east toward Paces Creek, and native hardwoods and plants form the cemetery’s natural landscape. Tombstones reflect organizations such as masons, woodmen of the world, and KJZT (katolika jednota zen texaska, a Czech Catholic fraternal organization). Military veterans includeJames B. Standley (U.S.-Mexico war) and W. Elias Meadows (Civil War). With the decline of the Asia community the site was abandoned and became overgrown. In the 1990s, descendants of those buried here restored the community burial ground
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.
The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
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.
Polk County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey 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.