Historical Marker

Concord Cemetery

Historical marker location:
1552 Dandelion Lane, Kenney, Texas
( Corner of Hall Road and Dandelion Lane)
Marker installed: 2014
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

Founded by the Concord Christian church in 1870, Concord Cemetery (also known as the Concord Church Cemetery) sits on 3.4 acres of land in northern Austin County and is part of the Concord Christian Church. The earliest known grave is that of Dr. Buell Eastman (1807-1870), a confederate veteran and early Austin County resident, who died on December 2, 1870.

John Wesley Collins (1804-1882), an early settler to the area and one of the founders of the Concord Cemetery, is buried here along with his family. Other pioneer families such as Creath, Bouldin, Dabney, Eastman and McNutt are buried at this historic cemetery and are early settlers to the area. The McNutts buried at Concord Cemetery are descendants of Robert McNutt who came to Texas in 1834 after receiving headright grants in Austin and Williamson counties; he and his family settled in Austin County. During the battle of San Jacinto, McNutt was placed in command of the baggage guard and ammunition, and was responsible for the wounded and sick.

The last known burial occurred in 1973 when Arthur Guy McNutt was buried beside his wife. The landscape of the cemetery is traditional with a variety of gravestone materials and inscriptions. Some gravestones indicate military service or involvement with fraternal organizations, such as civil war veterans Japhet Collins and Robert A. Husk and WWI veterans Monroe Terrell Lynn and Horace Haley McNutt. Over the years, the cemetery became overrun by brush and some of the tombstones were lost. In 2010, the cemetery was cleared by a volunteer group, which included many descendants of buried family members

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.

gravesites
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Texas random facts
Austin County, located in the southeastern part of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and the Akokisa. In the early 1820s, the Mexican government granted land to Stephen F. Austin, also known as the "Father of Texas," who established the first Anglo-American settlements in the region.

In 1824, Austin County was officially created as one of the original 23 counties of Texas. The county was named in honor of Stephen F. Austin and served as a major center for the colonization of Texas. During this time, settlers began to arrive and establish farms, bringing with them their unique cultures and traditions.

Austin County also played a significant role in the Texas Revolution. In 1832, local colonists held the Turtle Bayou Resolutions, which voiced their support for Antonio López de Santa Anna, who was then the leader of Mexico. However, as tensions escalated, the colonists became part of the rebellion against Mexican rule, leading to the famous Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. This battle marked a major turning point in Texas history, resulting in the defeat of Santa Anna's forces and the eventual independence of Texas.

Throughout the years, Austin County continued to develop and thrive. The county seat, Bellville, was established in 1848 and has remained an important cultural and economic center. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further contributed to the growth of the county, connecting it with other regions. Today, Austin County is known for its rich agricultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant community, making it a unique and significant part of Texas history.

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

  • 1821 - Austin County is established as one of the original 23 counties in Texas.
  • 1831 - Stephen F. Austin, the "Father of Texas", passes away and is buried in Austin County.
  • 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico, leading to an influx of settlers in Austin County.
  • 1856 - The town of Bellville is established as the county seat of Austin County.
  • 1861-1865 - Austin County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1878 - The Texas state legislature formally recognizes Austin County as the "Cradle of the Republic".
  • 1887 - The San Felipe and Southwestern Railroad connects Austin County to the rest of Texas.
  • 1907 - The Brazos River floods Austin County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1965 - The Stephen F. Austin State Park is established in Austin County.
  • 1992 - The Austin County Historical Commission is formed to preserve the county's history and heritage.
  • Present - Austin County continues to thrive as an agricultural and historic region in Texas.