Historical Marker

Shady Grove Community

Historical marker location:
Greenville, Texas
( 7.7 mi. E of Greenville on IH-30; .3 mi. N on SH 50/24; .4 mi. W on FM 499)
Marker installed: 1998
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Republic of Texas President Sam Houston granted two tracts of land to Charles F. Mercer on which to settle families in January 1844. Included in Mercer's colony were 6,500 square miles of land around this site. Among the earliest settlers here were members of the Concord Missionary Baptist Church, organized in August 1844 by the Reverend Benjamin Watson on a site that later became the Shady Grove Cemetery. A log structure soon was erected to serve as both church and school. The Greenville Post Office, which probably served Shady Grove, was established in 1847. The Rev. Mr. Watson and James A. Burnett deeded one acre of land to the Concord church in 1852. Watson also is credited with building the first flour mill in Hunt County in 1849.

In the final days of the Civil War, James S. and Elizabeth Alexander settled in the community with their family. They gave the land for a new schoolhouse. James Burnett voted to name it "Alexander" for its benefactors, but others preferred the name Shady Grove for the number of large shade trees nearby. The community took on the school's name. The Alexanders also built a cotton gin, corn mill and blacksmith shop. A post office, store and Watson's flour mill completed the business section of the village. Shady Grove Methodist Church was built in 1885 with the Rev. W. S. May as pastor. Shady Grove Baptist Church was organized in 1888. The Shady Grove schoolhouse was closed in 1918 when the area was consolidated with Moore's Prairie schools.

The Baptist church remained active in 1999. The story of Shady Grove community is a vital part of the history of Hunt County. (1999)

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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Texas random facts
Hunt County, Texas is located in the northeastern part of the state and has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Caddo Native American tribe, who resided in the region for centuries before European settlers arrived.

The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and proximity to the Trinity River. The county was officially established in 1846 and was named after Memucan Hunt, who played a significant role in the Republic of Texas. The county seat, Greenville, was named after Thomas J. Green, a prominent lawyer and politician.

In its early years, Hunt County thrived on agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The county's economy boomed with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, which facilitated transportation and boosted trade and commerce.

Over the years, Hunt County experienced growth and development, and the economy diversified. In the 20th century, industries such as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare emerged, contributing to the county's economic stability. The county also saw an increase in population, with Greenville becoming the largest city in the area.

Today, Hunt County is known for its vibrant community, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It continues to be a hub for agricultural production, while also offering residents and visitors a wide range of recreational activities, historical sites, and local attractions.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Hunt County, Texas.

  • 1839 - Hunt County is established on April 11, named after Memucan Hunt Jr., the first Republic of Texas Secretary of the Navy.
  • 1846 - Bonham is selected as the county seat.
  • 1850 - Hunt County's population reaches 1,914.
  • 1858 - Greenville becomes the new county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Hunt County residents participate in the Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate military.
  • 1872 - The Texas and Pacific Railway arrives in Greenville, bringing economic growth to the area.
  • 1895 - A devastating fire destroys the Hunt County Courthouse in Greenville.
  • Early 1900s - Cotton and cottonseed oil continue as major industries in the county.
  • 1940s-1950s - Oil discoveries and production boom in Hunt County.
  • 1980s-present - Hunt County experiences continued economic growth, diversifying its industries and expanding its population.