Historical Marker

Oden Cemetery

Historical marker location:
CR 2015, Glen Rose, Texas
( West on US 67, 10.1 miles to CR 2013, South 3.3 miles to CR 2015. Go right about 1.1 miles to the Cemetery & Church. The Cemetery will be on the left.)
Marker installed: 2016
Marker size: HTC name and date plaque with post

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.

gravesites
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
Texas random facts
Somervell County, located in north-central Texas, has a rich history that dates back several centuries. The area was originally occupied by Native American tribes, primarily the Tonkawa, before European settlers arrived in the 1850s. The county was officially established in 1875 and was named after Alexander Somervell, a Texas general who fought during the Texas Revolution.

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.

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.