Mull Cemetery
Historical marker location:The Rev. James Allen and John M. Mull, brothers who married sisters Rebecca and Mary Dempsey, respectively, brought their families here from Alabama in 1894. In Mar. 1896, Mary died of smallpox at age 34. Interment in the city cemetery was denied for fear of contamination, so Y. W. Rogers offered a burial place on his land on the San Augustine road. In 1901, John Mull bought two acres from Rogers and organized a trusteeship for Center South Cemetery (later Mull Cemetery). John, James and Rebecca are also buried here among at least ten family members; some graves are unmarked, with the latest believed to be from 1936. In 1956, the city of Center took over care of Mull Cemetery, a reminder of a family who brought their traditions to Texas
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.
In 1835, the Mexican government granted land in the area to Stephen F. Austin's colony, which attracted many settlers to Shelby County. The county was officially established in 1836 and named after Isaac Shelby, who was the first governor of Kentucky. The county's population grew steadily, and by the mid-19th century, it became a major center for agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop.
During the Civil War, Shelby County, like many other parts of Texas, sided with the Confederacy. It sent many men to fight in the Confederate army, and the local economy suffered from the effects of the war. However, the county rebounded after the war, and by the late 19th century, it experienced an economic boom with the discovery of oil and gas reserves.
In the 20th century, Shelby County continued to thrive, with the oil and gas industries playing a significant role in its economy. The county also witnessed significant social and political changes, with the Civil Rights Movement bringing about integration and equal rights for African Americans. Today, Shelby County remains an important agricultural and industrial center, with a mix of rural landscapes and urban developments.
Shelby County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Shelby County, Texas.
- 1823 - Shelby County is established
- 1836 - Shelby County plays a role in the Texas Revolution
- 1845 - Texas is admitted to the United States, including Shelby County
- 1859 - The Texas State Legislature establishes Center as the county seat of Shelby County
- 1861-1865 - Shelby County is deeply affected by the American Civil War
- 1905 - The discovery of oil leads to economic growth in Shelby County
- 1940s-1950s - Shelby County experiences a decline in population due to rural-to-urban migration
- 1976 - Shelby County celebrates its sesquicentennial anniversary
- 2000s - Shelby County continues to be home to a diverse and vibrant community