Sunny Point Cemetery

Historical marker location:
CR 4133 at CR 4128, Cumby, Texas
( 2 mi. S of IH-30 on CR 4133 at int. of CR 4128)
Marker installed: 2003
Marker size: HTC marker

In September 1881, A.J. Weathers (Withers) deeded this property for cemetery and school purposes. The first known burial at Sunny Point Cemetery is that of Mary W. Brasher, who died in 1882. Her husband, E.H. Brasher is also buried here. Several generations of prominent community families, including the Evans, Bryant, Callan, Roman and Wilson families, are interred here, as are veterans of American conflicts dating to the Civil War.

The Sunny Point School, which was west of the cemetery, played a vital role in the community for many years. It later consolidated into the Cumby Independent School District.

Residents and descendants of those buried here formed a cemetery association to manage the perpetual care burial ground. Members hold meetings each May, a decades-old tradition. Today, the cultural heritage found among the verical stones, curbed plots and other features at Sunny Point Cemetery chronicles the families and individuals who once called Sunny Point home.

Historic Texas Cemetery - 2003

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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The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Hopkins County, located in northeast Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, until European settlers began arriving in the early 1800s. In 1841, the Texas Congress established Hopkins County and named it after Samuel Hopkins, a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto.

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.

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.