Historical Marker

Wallis Cemetery

Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Also known as the Protestant Cemetery, this burial ground has served the Wallis community and surrounding area since the 1890s. The earliest settlers in the area were William and Lydia Ann (English) Guyler, Kentucky natives who arrived here in 1859. William Guyler built a grist mill, cotton gin and saw mill in the community which was known as Bovine Bend; he was also the settlement’s postmaster. In 1880, the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway constructed a spur through the area. Guyler sold his land to the railroad company and moved his residence and trading post to the new town, named Wallis Station after chief engineer and vice president of the railroad, Joseph Edmund Wallis. The community was later renamed Wallis.

In 1895, N.P. Ward sold four acres of land for cemetery use. The oldest known burial in Wallis cemetery is of Virginia Pennington (d. 1892). Others buried here include the Guylers and the Rev. Theo Kubricht, M.D., who was both a local physician and minister of Wallis Presbyterian Church. Community leaders, farmers, ranchers, railroad workers, merchants, teachers and veterans of conflicts dating to the Civil War are also among those interred. Cemetery features include interior fencing and obelisks. The Wallis Cemetery Association, formed with the establishment of the burial ground, continues to maintain the property. Today, Wallis Cemetery serves as a permanent reminder of the struggles, successes and contributions of the early area pioneers

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
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.