Union Grove Cemetery
Historical marker location:On Sept. 25, 1887, local residents met in the Old Stone Schoolhouse to organize Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church with 12 charter members. In 1905, T.W. and Laura Marshall, and J.J. and Mattie Suber donated land to trustees Arthur O' Neal and L.C. Shuttlesworth for the church and cemetery. The oldest marked graves, for Jesse Richard Thompson and Mary Ann (Worley) Richardson, date to 1904. Other burials include those of Confederate veterans Albert Green Pullium (d. 1918) and veterans of World Wars I and II, and the Korean Conflict. The present church building dates to 1924.A cemetery association formed in 1972 oversees maintenance and homecoming activities on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekends. Recent changes to the historic cemetery include a pavilion and enlargement of the property with an additional donation of land.For more than a century, families and local residents have gathered here to remember, to worship, to pay respects to those of the past and to visit with loved ones. Union Grove Cemetery serves as an important historical reminder of the role churches and burial grounds play as centers of rural communities.Historic Texas Cemetery-2004
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 city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
During the turbulent times of the American Civil War, Smith County experienced significant unrest. Many residents in the county owned slaves, and tensions ran high between Union and Confederate sympathizers. The Battle of Blackjack Grove took place in August 1864, and although it was a minor skirmish, it reflected the deep divisions and struggles faced by the county during the war.
Following the war, Smith County experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy and population. During this period, the town of Tyler established itself as a principal commercial center, attracting businesses and settlers from surrounding areas.
In the 20th century, Smith County continued to thrive with the growth of agriculture, oil, and manufacturing industries. Tyler became known as the "Rose Capital of the World" due to its substantial rose-growing industry. The county has also been a center for education, with the establishment of schools and universities.
Today, Smith County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of Texas. Its rich history, from its Native American roots to its role in the Civil War and beyond, provides a fascinating backdrop to its current achievements and endeavors.
Smith County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Smith County, Texas.
- 1846 - Smith County is established by the Texas legislature.
- 1847 - The county seat is designated at Tyler.
- 1850 - The population of Smith County reaches 1,726.
- 1861-1865 - The Civil War impacts the county, with many residents serving in the Confederate Army.
- 1877 - The Texas and Pacific Railway reaches Tyler, boosting the local economy.
- 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardships to Smith County.
- 1932 - The East Texas Oil Field is discovered, leading to an oil boom in the area.
- 1950s - The construction of highways and infrastructure brings further growth and development to the county.
- 1995 - The Smith County Historical Society is formed to preserve the county's history.
- Present - Smith County continues to thrive as a regional economic and cultural hub in East Texas.