Historic Cemetery

Wood Annex Cemetery

a.k.a. Wood's Annex Cemetery

Pineland, Texas
Location: SA-C134 Wood ANNEX Cemetery NOT AKA Woods Cem.NOT AKA Wood Cem. NOT AKA Fonville Cem. THC site visit MB 9/21/04 Woods ANNEX Cemetery W. from US HWY 96 at Pineland on FM 83 about 7 miles to the Wood Cemetery Road (1/2 mile from Ayish Bayou); go S. on gravel road 1/4 mile (2nd road on right); turn right (west) and go about 100 yards.THC site visit MB 9/21/04: W of Pineland, Tx area, near Anthony Harbor, Ayish Bayou. S of 83 W of intersection with FM 1751, at sign S on CR 432 for 0.2 mile, then R or W at sign on access road for 0.1 mile. Large fenced site adjacent to Owl Creek Hunting Club. Wooded area. Map of cemetery in shed near front entrance. Two separate cemeteries. Sign lists as Fonville (not Old Fonville), separate fence under construction. Separate HTC marker does not include area around Fonville Cem. that has recently been dedicated as Wood Cem. Annex. Separate site number. No marker trees or shrubs. San Augustine grass. Several uniform modern graves, abundant floral, decorative and creative materials including personal items anda food item, a Dr. Pepper. Several posts indicating future burial reserved areas. Approx 0.9 acre. GPS 31.15.45.78842N –94.06.18.72748W.Quad 3194-141Low risk endangerment, fenced, maintained, newly in use, adjacent to HTC Fonville Cem. 3194-141 Not on map.

Source: RIP Fields Table

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
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.
Texas random facts
San Augustine County, located in the eastern part of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapa and Caddo peoples. It wasn't until the 18th century that European settlers began to arrive, with the Spanish establishing a mission and presidio in the region.

In the early 19th century, San Augustine County became a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico. However, tensions soon arose as American settlers began to outnumber the Mexican population. This led to the Texas Revolution in 1836, and San Augustine County played an important role in the struggle for Texan independence. The town of San Augustine served as the headquarters of the Texas Revolutionary Army during the Battle of Nacogdoches.

After Texas gained its independence, San Augustine County became a part of the Republic of Texas. The area saw rapid growth and development during this time, with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. The county's economy was primarily based on agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The timber industry also played a significant role, as the county was rich in valuable timber resources.

In the 20th century, San Augustine County faced several challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the timber industry. However, the county has worked hard to preserve its rich history and promote tourism. Today, visitors can explore historic sites such as the Mission Dolores State Historic Site, which features the remains of an 18th-century Spanish mission, and the Augus Theater, a historic movie theater that has been restored to its former glory. San Augustine County remains a place where the past intertwines with the present, showcasing the resilience and rich heritage of East Texas.

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

  • 1717: San Augustine County is established as the first Spanish municipality in Texas.
  • 1824: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and San Augustine County becomes part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas.
  • 1836: Texas declares independence from Mexico, and San Augustine County becomes part of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1846: The Republic of Texas is annexed by the United States, and San Augustine County becomes part of the state of Texas.
  • 1896: The town of San Augustine is incorporated.
  • 1939: The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department establishes the Mission Dolores State Historic Site in San Augustine County.
  • 1980: The county courthouse in San Augustine is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1991: San Augustine County celebrates its 275th anniversary.