Dougherty Cemetery
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
The first settlers in Rains County arrived in the early 1850s, primarily from the southern United States. They were drawn to the fertile land and abundant water sources, such as the Sabine River and its tributaries. Agriculture quickly became the backbone of the county's economy, with cotton, corn, and livestock playing major roles.
The construction of the Texas and New Orleans Railroad in the late 1880s bolstered the county's growth, as it provided an important transportation link to nearby towns and markets. The railroad brought prosperity and new opportunities, leading to the establishment of the county seat, Emory. The town was named after Emory Rains and became a hub of commerce, education, and social activities in the region.
Despite the challenges posed by the Great Depression and the decline of agriculture in the mid-20th century, Rains County continued to thrive with the development of recreational areas and the growth of tourism. Lake Tawakoni, one of the largest lakes in Texas, was completed in 1960, which drew visitors and outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Today, Rains County remains a close-knit community, focused on preserving its history while embracing the opportunities of the modern era.
Rains County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rains County, Texas.
- 1870 - Rains County was established on June 9, 1870, named after Emory Rains, a Texas state legislator.
- 1871 - The first county officials were elected and the county seat was established in the city of Emory.
- 1873 - The first courthouse was built in Emory.
- 1878 - The Texas and Pacific Railway extended a line into Rains County, boosting economic growth.
- 1880 - The population of Rains County reached 3,901.
- 1892 - The second courthouse was constructed in Emory.
- 1913 - A fire destroyed the second courthouse, prompting the construction of the third courthouse.
- 1930s - The Great Depression brought economic struggles to Rains County.
- 1970s - The population of Rains County began to decline.
- 2001 - Lake Tawakoni State Park was established, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
- 2010s - The population of Rains County started to grow again, with increased interest in rural living and lakefront properties.