Nelta Cemetery
Historical marker location:In December 1842, a wagon train from Warrick County, Indiana arrived near here, led by two Hargrave brothers. Other families arrived in the following months, and the communities of Pleasant Hill and Sulphur Bluff were established near the Sulphur River. In 1878, Greenlief Neely deeded one acre to the Pleasant Hill school trustees for a combination schoolhouse and church open to all denominations. The Pleasant Hill community received a new name when the Nelta post office opened in 1882. The first known area cemetery began with the burial of William Hargarve’s son in August 1843. A community burial ground developed around the site, and when the McFall family later donated an acre including the graveyard, it became known as McFall Cemetery. Eldred Glen Hargrave died in 1859, and his burial on the family farm established Hargrave Cemetery.
In September 1883, Bertram Oscar Bryant, son of Ruffus and Eva (Hargrave) Bryant, was buried on the north side of the Pleasant Hill School and Church, thus establishing Nelta cemetery. In 1913, Nelta Cemetery trustees purchased two acres for cemetery purposes from J. G. Trent, encompassing the original burial areas. After the school relocated, trustees sold their one acre of land to the Nelta cemetery. An additional four acres were purchased from G. W. and Lillie Ward in 1920. Graves are oriented east-west in an open prairie dotted with oak trees. Gravestone materials include marble, granite and concrete. There are numerous military burials here, from the U.S.-Mexico War to World War II. The Nelta Cemetery Association maintains this active burial ground, a continuum of the area’s history from pioneer times to the modern day
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 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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.