Long Cemetery
Historical marker location:Texas Rangers in the late 1830s camped on a hill west of present Cumby in a grove of black jack oak trees. Settlers established a community near them for protection and called the settlement Black Jack Grove. Later renamed Cumby, it grew into a trade center during the late 19th century.
In the 1850s, James M. and Mary Long settled along Turkey Creek in a small community known as Crossroads, south of Black Jack Grove. Tradition holds they set aside land c. 1860 for the burial of a girl who died when her family passed through the area. By 1865, James had rewed, to Susan Luttrell, and the grave of Mary Long may be among those that are today unmarked.
The first marked grave at Long Cemetery is that of John M. Webb (d. 1869). Other early marked graves include those of Civil War veterans and Woodmen of the World members, while several burials are indicated by small concrete markers that replaced original bois d'arc posts.
An association meets annually at the burial ground, which was enlarged in the 1970s. The site now serves as a reminder of generations of area settlers.
Historic Texas Cemetery - 2005
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.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
The county's development was greatly influenced by the arrival of the railroad in the late 1870s. The construction of the St. Louis Southwestern Railway, also known as the Cotton Belt Route, opened up new opportunities for trade and agriculture in the area. This led to an increase in population and the establishment of several communities, including Sulphur Springs, the county seat.
Agriculture played a significant role in the county's economy. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for growing crops such as cotton, corn, and wheat. The introduction of new farming techniques and machinery further improved productivity. In addition to agriculture, the county also had thriving industries such as dairy farming, timber harvesting, and oil and gas production.
Over the years, Hopkins County has maintained its agricultural heritage while embracing modern developments. Today, the county is known for its annual Hopkins County Fall Festival, which celebrates the community's history and culture. It also boasts numerous parks, recreational areas, and historic sites, attracting visitors from near and far. Hopkins County continues to be a vibrant and evolving community, combining its rich history with a focus on progress and growth.
Hopkins County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hopkins County, Texas.
- 1846 - Hopkins County is formed from portions of Lamar and Nacogdoches counties.
- 1849 - The county's first settlement, Tarrant, is established.
- 1870 - The city of Sulphur Springs is founded as the county seat.
- 1872 - The Texas and Pacific Railway is built through the county, boosting economic development.
- 1884 - The county courthouse, known as the "Old White Courthouse," is constructed in Sulphur Springs.
- 1961 - Lake Fork Reservoir is completed, providing a new recreational attraction for the county.
- 1985 - The city of Sulphur Springs is designated as the "World Champion Hopkins County Stew Capital."
- 2000 - The Hopkins County Veterans Memorial is dedicated to honor local veterans.