Historical Marker

Abbott's Grove

Historical marker location:
Old Brandon Rd, IH35, Hillsboro, Texas
( Hillsboro City Park, N of int. of Old Brandon Rd (286) at IH-35/77, just south of Pecan Creek)
Marker installed: 2003
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In the early days of Hillsboro, a grove of pecan, hackberry, elm and other trees grew along the banks of Hackberry Creek. Hillsboro residents came to the grove for community celebrations and festivities. They called it Abbott's Grove in honor of one of the city's popular leaders, Joseph Abbott (1840-1908). He and his wife, Rowena (Sturgis), built their family home on the land south of the creek. Two of their five children owned adjacent property.

Jo Abbott was a distinguished lawyer, judge, Texas legislator and U.S. Congressman. He and brother-in-law George F. Sturgis operated what would become the Sturgis National Bank. An avid anti-prohibitionist, Abbott was often a speaker at rallies and barbecues held in the 1880s and 1890s in the grove near his home. Other events at the grove included community and holiday picnics, concerts, ball games, and reunions for groups like the Old Settlers and Confederate Veterans Associations.

At Abbott's death in 1908, prominent businessman and banker George Carmichael (1855-1924) purchased the Abbott home and property, and donated $1,000 in 1921 to designate the grove as a city park. The newly organized Hillsboro Rotary Club got behind the effort, and after a few months of raising funds the Rotarians were successful in their campaign. The new municipal park continued the name of Abbott's Grove.

Use of the park at Abbott's Grove fluctuated over the years, but after a period of underutilization the park is once again a source of community pride, and a place for birthday parties, end-of-school events and other celebrations. Hillsboro citizens enjoy the scenic setting and the many amenities found in historic Abbott's Grove. (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.

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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
Texas random facts
Hill County, located in Central Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early Native American tribes who inhabited the region before European settlement. The area was primarily occupied by the Tonkawa and Comanche tribes, who relied on hunting and gathering for their sustenance. However, the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century marked the beginning of significant changes for Hill County.

In the early 1800s, settlers from the United States began to arrive in Hill County, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming. The Republic of Texas was established in 1836, and Hill County was founded in 1853, named after Dr. George Washington Hill, an early settler and land surveyor. The county seat was initially established in Hillsborough but later moved to Hillsboro.

During the Civil War, Hill County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others remaining loyal to the Union. The war took a toll on the area, leading to economic decline and agricultural setbacks. However, with the end of the war and efforts to rebuild, the county gradually recovered.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hill County saw significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s brought new opportunities for trade and transportation, leading to the establishment of new towns and communities. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a mainstay of the county's economy, with numerous cotton gins and mills scattered throughout the area.

Today, Hill County is a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historic landmarks and sites, museums, and annual events that celebrate its history. From its early Native American roots to its role in the development of Central Texas, Hill County continues to thrive as a testament to the tenacity and perseverance of its residents.

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

  • 1853: Hill County established as one of the 36 original counties of Texas.
  • 1854: Hillsboro becomes the county seat.
  • 1860s: Hill County experiences rapid growth due to the cattle industry and the arrival of the railroad.
  • 1873: The Hill County Courthouse, a two-story wooden structure, is completed.
  • 1882: The Courthouse is destroyed by a fire.
  • 1886: Construction of a new courthouse begins.
  • 1890: The current Hill County Courthouse, a magnificent Romanesque Revival architectural style building, is completed.
  • 1900s: Hill County faces numerous challenges, including droughts, the Great Depression, and the decline of the cotton industry.
  • 1940s: Hill County experiences a surge in population and economic growth due to World War II and the establishment of military bases in the region.
  • 1950s-1960s: Construction of Lake Whitney provides recreational opportunities and helps boost the local economy.
  • 2000s: Hill County continues to develop and diversify its economy, focusing on agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.