Claiborne Cemetery
Historical marker location:UPON ARRIVING IN TEXAS, MOSES GAGE FIRST SETTLED HIS FAMILY IN BASTROP AND THEN BOUGHT 100 ACRES ALONG ALUM CREEK FROM HIS FATHER, REUBEN, IN 1837. OTHERS JOINED THE GAGES AND A SMALL COMMUNITY SOON FORMED. THE SETTLEMENT CAME TO BE KNOWN AS CRAFT’S PRAIRIE, PROBABLY FOR THE FAMILY OF EARLY AREA SETTLER SAMUEL CRAFT.
GEORGIA NATIVE JOHN BLACK ARRIVED IN BASTROP COUNTY IN 1836, AND IN 1842 HE MARRIED MOSES AND ELIZABETH GAGE’S DAUGHTER, GABRIELLA. BLACK, ALONG WITH HIS BROTHER-IN-LAW LUDWELL RECTOR, PURCHASED ALMOST 2,000 ACRES ALONG ALUM CREEK, INCLUDING THIS SITE, IN 1849. GABRIELLA BLACK’S BROTHER, SHERLY GAGE, DIED ON NOVEMBER 19, 1850, AND HE WAS LAID TO REST HERE, ON A GENTLE RISE ON THE WEST BANK OF LITTLE ALUM CREEK. A CEMETERY WAS SOON FORMED AS MEMBERS OF THE BLACK, RECTOR AND GAGE FAMILIES WERE BURIED HERE THROUGH THE 1860s. ALSO, APPROXIMATELY THIRTY SLAVES BELONGING TO THE FAMILIES WERE BURIED IN THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE SITE. OTHER MEMBERS OF THE CRAFT’S PRAIRIE SETTLEMENT BEGAN TO USE THE CEMETERY REGULARLY DURING THE LATE 1800s.
IN 1882, JOHN AND GABRIELLA BLACK GAVE LAND ON WHICH THE CEMETERY SITS TO THEIR DAUGHTER, MARTHA JANE, WIFE OF JOHN DYER CLAIBORNE. THE CLAIBORNES ARE BURIED IN THE CEMETERY, AND BEFORE MARTHA CLAIBORNE DIED IN 1936, SHE OFFICIALLY ESTABLISHED A CEMETERY AT THIS SITE, WHICH SHE CALLED “BLACK-CLAIBORNE-RECTOR CEMETERY.” AN ANNUAL FAMILY REUNION WAS BEGUN IN 1947, AND ATTENDEES FORMED THE CLAIBORNE CEMETERY ASSOCIATION, WHICH OVERSEES THE SITE. THE CEMETERY CONTINUES TO BE USED TODAY BY AREA RESIDENTS AND BY DESCENDANTS OF THE BLACK, CLAIBORNE AND RECTOR FAMILIES
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 Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Bastrop County was officially established during this period, named after Felipe Enrique Neri, Baron de Bastrop, a prominent figure in early Texas history. The county experienced significant growth and development throughout the 19th century, driven by factors such as the arrival of immigrants, the expansion of the railroad, and the establishment of key industries like lumber and agriculture.
During the 20th century, Bastrop County continued to evolve, adapting to changing times and embracing modernization. The county has a rich agricultural heritage, particularly in cotton and cattle production. Additionally, Bastrop County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Lost Pines Forest, which provides a unique ecosystem and attracts visitors from near and far.
Today, Bastrop County is a diverse and dynamic region, balancing its historical roots with modern developments. The county offers a mix of rural charm and urban amenities, with communities that value their heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth.
Bastrop County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Bastrop County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: Bastrop County was home to indigenous tribes, including the Tonkawa and Hasinai Caddo, who inhabited the area for centuries.
1800s: In the early 19th century, the region witnessed an influx of Anglo-American settlers, with Stephen F. Austin's colony playing a significant role in the area's colonization.
1836: Texas gains independence from Mexico, and the Republic of Texas is established. Bastrop County is officially formed in 1837 and named after Baron de Bastrop, a Dutch businessman who played a key role in the colony's development.
Late 1800s: Bastrop County thrives as an agricultural hub, with cotton production serving as a prominent economic activity. The arrival of railroads further facilitates trade and transportation.
20th Century: The county witnesses modernization and growth, with the rise of other industries such as lumber, oil, and gas. Bastrop County also plays a role in World War II as Camp Swift, a military training facility, is established.
21st Century: Bastrop County faces challenges such as wildfires, notably the devastating Bastrop County Complex Fire in 2011, which impacted thousands of acres and destroyed hundreds of homes. The county continues to evolve, balancing its agricultural roots with suburban growth and maintaining its natural beauty.