Historic Cemetery

Old Salem Cemetery

a.k.a. Salem Community Cemetery; McKay Cemetery

Salem, Texas
Location: Old Salem CemeteryRecorded: WOOD05—Parsons; (location in Co. Hist., Vol. 4, p. :From Salem Cem. on FM 17 north of Alba, go north on FM 17 for 0.2 mi and turn east on the oiled road. Go 0.6 mi. and turn south, going over a cattle grade, and another 0.4 mile. A Church of Christ is nearby. … well-kept, fenced cemetery about 150 ft. by 300 ft. … many unmarked graves … aka McKay Cem.”) Cemetery IndexTHC site visit MB 12/19/03From SH 17 E on CR 1534 to CR 1540, S to CR 1545, dead end in lake, private residence.Site revisit MB s/ local historian Saundra Seaton Burge 2/03/04. Verified history.. SEE ALSO New Old Salem Relocation Cem. After Lake Fork water impoundment some of Old Salem Cem. graves were relocated, but not all. Those graves above high water level remain at this Old Salem Cem. No access, locked gate, private residence. Site appears to remain maintained as a cemetery, Irises, some scattered fieldstones, area mowed. Estimated GPS 32.49.49.71431N –95.36.40.96282WTHC re-visit with local historian Suandra Burge. Confirmed McKay Family-Salem Community Cem, aka Old Salem Cemetery. Partially moved after lake impoundment. Part of burials placed in mass and some moved individually to New Old Salem Schoolhouse Cem. Some graves remain. Private property at 646 CR 1545.

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.

gravesites
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Texas random facts
Wood County, located in the eastern part of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, who utilized the fertile land for agriculture and hunting.

In the early 1800s, the region attracted settlers from the United States who were drawn to the lush forests and abundant resources. The first permanent European-American settlement was established in 1846, and it was named Quitman after John A. Quitman, a prominent politician of that time.

During the Civil War, Wood County played a significant role in supporting the Confederacy. Many residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, and the area became a center for military recruitment and training. After the war, the county suffered economically, but with the introduction of the railroad in the late 19th century, the economy began to recover.

Wood County's economy primarily relied on agriculture, with the growth of cotton, corn, and timber industries. The establishment of sawmills and the development of the timber industry brought prosperity to the area. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil and gas reserves further fueled the county's economic development.

Today, Wood County continues to be an important agricultural and industrial center in Texas. The county's history is evident in its charming small towns, historic sites, and natural beauty. The strong sense of community and appreciation for the region's heritage are still evident today, making Wood County a vibrant and inviting place to visit or live.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Wood County, Texas.

  • 1850: Wood County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1852: The first courthouse in Wood County is built in Quitman.
  • 1860: The population of Wood County reaches 4,867.
  • 1875: The railroad reaches Wood County, boosting economic growth.
  • 1895: The county seat is moved from Quitman to Mineola.
  • 1920: The population of Wood County peaks at 19,109.
  • 1930: The Great Depression hits Wood County, causing economic hardship.
  • 1958: Lake Holbrook is completed, providing a recreational area for residents.
  • 1970: Wood County's population decreases to 12,230.
  • 1983: Holly Lake Ranch, a gated residential community, is established in Wood County.
  • 2000: The population of Wood County surpasses 37,000.
  • 2019: Wood County experiences steady growth and continues to be a thriving community.