The Ditch Cemetery
Source: Parsons, Kim, Ref. to Texas Cemeteries, 1988; Uvalde County Misc. Cemetery Records, (Burns, McAfee, and Feely); THC records; USGS; rootsweb; usgennet; theyspeak
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 mid-19th century, Uvalde County experienced significant settlement and development fueled by the expansion of the cattle industry. Many ranchers and cowboys moved to the area, attracted by the abundant water sources and fertile grazing land. The establishment of the Great Western Cattle Trail in the late 1860s further reinforced Uvalde County's importance as a hub for the cattle industry.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Uvalde County played a significant role in various historical events. It was the birthplace of John Nance "Cactus Jack" Garner, who served as the Vice President of the United States under Franklin D. Roosevelt. The area was also a center of political activism during the Mexican Revolution, attracting prominent figures such as Francisco Madero and Pancho Villa.
In more recent years, Uvalde County has continued to evolve and grow. The development of oil and gas industries in the mid-20th century brought economic prosperity to the region. Today, Uvalde County is a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, ranching, and recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and nature tourism, that continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Uvalde County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Uvalde County, Texas.
- 1850: Uvalde County established as a county of the Republic of Texas
- 1855: First permanent settlers arrive in the area
- 1866: Fort Inge established as a military outpost
- 1881: Railroad reaches Uvalde, spurring growth and development
- 1883: City of Uvalde officially incorporated
- 1891: The Uvalde Asphalt Paving Company is founded
- 1900: Uvalde becomes a center for farming and ranching
- 1914: Uvalde County Courthouse is completed
- 1940: Garner Field established as a training facility during World War II
- 1981: John Nance Garner Museum opens in Uvalde
- 1998: Winter Garden Region becomes a major grape-growing area
- 2010: Population of Uvalde County reaches over 26,000