Historic Cemetery

Pilgrim's Rest Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery

4550 E Austin St, Giddings, Texas 78942
Location: Pilgrim Rest Primitive Baptist Church Cem. Giddings, Tx (outskirts)—SEE Lee Co, Tx Cems, vol 1-2 (1991): Pilgrim Rest Primitive Baptist Church was founded in 1891 by Rev. James McNeil, Sr. Sign on tree (1980s). Information added by Mrs. Collins, who lives on property and whose McNeil family gave 25 acres for church and cem. McNeil family also owned about 100 acres across US 290 [to N]THC site visit MB 9/29/03: “Cem associated with church. Area of cemetery larger than that shown on USGS map, makes an L-shaped area to E and S of church bldg. Diverse markers over time, abundant floral material. Some unique creative markers. Mowed open landscape with heavily treed areas along E and S borders. Adjacent to US 290, heavy traffic. Buffer zone of about 30’ ROW. Fenced on 3 irregular sides, open gate to church yard." Approx 3.15 acres. GPS 30.10.35.85229N -96.54.09.46141W. Quad 3096-223.NOTE: USGS map of cemetery area inaccurate, irregular shape extends to S, part of approx. 20 acre tract for church and cemetery.

To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.

The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.

A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.

gravesites
Texas is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
Texas random facts
Lee County, located in the central region of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its establishment in 1874. Originally part of Bastrop County, it was named after Robert E. Lee, the controversial Confederate general. The area was primarily settled by German immigrants, who brought with them a strong agricultural tradition that shaped the county's economy.

During its early years, Lee County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s opened up new opportunities for trade and transportation. The county became known for its cotton production, and many rural communities emerged to support the farming industry. The county seat, Giddings, became a thriving commercial center, with businesses and institutions establishing themselves to meet the needs of the growing population.

The 20th century brought both challenges and progress to Lee County. The devastating effects of the Great Depression hit the agricultural sector hard, leading to a decline in cotton farming. However, the county adapted and diversified its economy, venturing into cattle ranching and the production of other crops. In the mid-20th century, the discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the area brought a new wave of economic growth.

Lee County has also played a significant role in Texas history. It is home to the Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Sites, which commemorate the fallen soldiers of the Dawson Massacre and the Texas Revolution. Today, Lee County continues to be a rural and historically significant part of Texas, with a strong sense of community and a blend of diverse cultural influences.

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

  • 1874: Lee County is established on February 11, named after Robert E. Lee.
  • 1878: The town of Giddings is established as the county seat.
  • 1881: The Texas and New Orleans Railroad is completed, leading to increased economic growth in the county.
  • 1907: Lee County Courthouse is built, replacing the original courthouse constructed in 1878.
  • 1920s: Cotton becomes a major crop for the county, leading to prosperous years for local farmers.
  • 1960s: The decline of cotton production begins, and farmers shift to other crops and livestock.
  • 1996: The Lee County Youth Center is opened to provide juvenile offenders with rehabilitative services.
  • 2011: The county is severely affected by drought and wildfires, causing significant damage to agricultural lands.
  • Present: Lee County continues to be primarily an agricultural area, with a growing emphasis on diversifying the local economy.