Reeves-McMillan Cemetery
Historical marker location:Born in South Carolina in 1788, William McMillan, Sr., moved to Alabama where he was married in 1823 to Elizabeth Wren. The couple had four children: William, Jr. (b. 1824), Elizabeth (b. 1828), Matthew (b. 1829), and Marshall (b. 1835). The family settled in Texas in the late 1830s, obtaining a land patent from the Republic of Texas in 1846, shortly before the authority of the Republic was formally transferred to the new state of Texas. The area surrounding the family's new home was designated McMillan's Post in 1848 and William McMillan, Sr., was first postmaster. The postal station was discontinued in 1866, and William died that year.
The McMillans set aside a place on this site for burials of family and friends and others in the community who had no access to other burial grounds. It is believed that William and Elizabeth McMillan and other family members were interred here in unmarked graves before the first headstone was placed for 24-year-old pioneer Sophrona A. Dobbs in 1868.
A high infant-child mortality rate bears witness to the harsh conditions of pioneer life, as do the five known graves of victims of the 1919 influenza epidemic. For many years the cemetery has been maintained by families of those interred on the site; in the early 1950s a cemetery association was organized to care for the property. A descendant of the Reeves family, which is prominently represented in the cemetery, gave additional acreage in 1976 with the stipulation that the cemetery bear the Reeves name. With more than 234 marked and 80 unmarked graves, the Reeves-McMillan Cemetery is a chronicle of Panola County history. (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.
The county was officially created in 1846 and named after a Native American word meaning "cotton." Cotton soon became the dominant crop in Panola County, and the economy thrived with the expansion of plantations and the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. Many enslaved people were brought to the county to work on these plantations, forming a significant part of the county's population.
During the Civil War, the cotton industry suffered greatly as a result of the blockade imposed by Union forces. Panola County saw its fair share of struggles and battles, with the county divided in its loyalties between the Confederacy and the Union. Reconstruction after the war brought further challenges, including economic difficulties and social tensions.
In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil brought a significant economic boom to Panola County. Numerous oil fields were developed, attracting a surge of workers and investment to the area. While the oil industry has remained a vital part of the county's economy, diversification has also taken place, including the development of timber and agriculture sectors.
Today, Panola County is known for its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and strong sense of community. With a mix of small towns and rural areas, the county offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Panola County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Panola County, Texas.
- 1836 - Panola County is formed from parts of Harrison and Shelby Counties.
- 1837 - Carthage is established as the county seat.
- Late 1830s - Settlements are established in the area by pioneers.
- 1846 - The Texas Legislature incorporates Carthage.
- Late 1840s - Agriculture becomes a major industry in the county.
- 1861-1865 - Panola County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.
- Early 1900s - The discovery of oil leads to economic growth in the county.
- 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic challenges to Panola County.
- 1960s - Civil rights movements advocate for equal rights in the county.
- 2000s - Panola County experiences growth in industries such as energy and healthcare.