Hopewell Cemetery
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.
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.
In the late 19th century, Somervell County became a prominent center for agriculture and ranching. Cotton was the main crop grown in the county, and many farms and plantations flourished during this time. Additionally, the discovery of large limestone deposits in the county led to the establishment of several quarries, which became an important industry for the area.
One of the most significant events in Somervell County's history occurred in the early 20th century. In 1929, construction began on the Glen Rose Dam, which created the picturesque Lake Granbury. This provided water for irrigation and recreational opportunities, leading to the growth of tourism in the area.
Today, Somervell County continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The county is known for its natural beauty, with attractions such as the Dinosaur Valley State Park, which features fossilized dinosaur footprints, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a popular safari park. The historic downtown area of Glen Rose remains a charming destination for visitors, showcasing its rich history through numerous preserved buildings and museums.
Somervell County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Somervell County, Texas.
- 1849 - Somervell County is established as a county by the Texas state legislature.
- 1850 - The first settlers begin arriving in Somervell County.
- 1852 - The county's first post office is established at Glen Rose.
- 1860 - The population of Somervell County reaches 604 residents.
- 1861 - The Civil War begins, and many men from Somervell County join the Confederate Army.
- 1875 - The Texas Central Railroad is completed, passing through Glen Rose and boosting the local economy.
- 1881 - Dinosaur tracks are discovered along the Paluxy River, leading to increased tourism and scientific interest in the area.
- 1906 - The creation of the Brazos River Authority brings hydroelectric power to Somervell County.
- 1929 - The Great Depression heavily impacts the county's agricultural and oil industries.
- 1969 - The Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant is completed, providing a major source of employment and revenue for Somervell County.
- 1990 - The population of Somervell County reaches 6,333 residents.
- 2013 - The creation of the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center attracts tourists from around the world.
- 2019 - Somervell County celebrates its 170th anniversary since its establishment.