Coker Cemetery
Historical marker location:South Carolina native John "Jack" Coker came to Texas in 1834 and fought in the Battle of San Jacinto. In gratitude for his service, Coker received from the Republic of Texas a one-third league, which totalled 1,920 acres and was situated along the banks of the Salado Creek, approximately ten miles north of downtown San Antonio. John Coker soon wrote to his brothers Joseph and James to come to Texas and help him to settle his land. While both brothers made the trip to Texas with their extended families, James decided to settle with his family in Cherokee County, Texas; Joseph and his family journeyed on to the land on Salado Creek.
The Coker family settlement slowly grew, but tragedy struck in 1857 when Loucious Monroe Coker, six-year-old son of James Harrison and Sarah (Gann) Coker, died from a rattlesnake bite. Loucious was buried on a high knoll near Salado Creek, and a large limestone headstone was placed at the site - the stone remains as the most prominent memorial in the cemetery. John "Jack" Coker died in 1861 and was also buried at the site.
In 1873, Joseph Coker conveyed a 201-acre tract to his two sons, and simultaneously conveyed a three-acre portion to trustees for use as "a neighborhood church, school-house and grave-yard." A schoolhouse was soon built and a Methodist congregation was established in 1885. Although the school has relocated, the church remains adjacent to the cemetery. The Coker Cemetery Association incorporated in 1967 in order to care for the site, and today, Coker Cemetery serves as a reminder of an early Texas pioneering family
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 University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is one of the largest universities in the United States and has produced many notable alumni, including several U.S. presidents.
During the Texas Revolution in 1836, the Battle of the Alamo took place, where a small group of Texan defenders valiantly fought against Mexican forces. Although the defenders ultimately lost, their bravery and sacrifice galvanized the Texan cause. Soon after, the Republic of Texas was established, and Bexar County was officially created in 1837, named after San Antonio de Béxar.
Bexar County played a vital role in the westward expansion of the United States. It became part of the United States when Texas joined as the 28th state in 1845. The county saw significant growth with the construction of railroads, the establishment of military bases like Fort Sam Houston, and the influx of European immigrants. In 1968, HemisFair '68 brought international attention to the county, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and attracting visitors from around the world. Today, Bexar County is known for its vibrant tourism industry, robust military presence, renowned healthcare institutions, and prestigious educational establishments.
Bexar County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bexar County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The region that would become Bexar County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache.
1718: The Spanish established the Mission San Antonio de Valero, known today as the Alamo, in what is now downtown San Antonio. This marked the beginning of Spanish colonization in the area.
1821: Mexico gained independence from Spain, and the region came under Mexican control.
1836: The Battle of the Alamo took place during the Texas Revolution, where a small group of Texan defenders fought against Mexican forces. Though the defenders were ultimately defeated, their resistance became a symbol of Texas independence.
1837: The Republic of Texas officially established Bexar County, naming it after San Antonio de Béxar, the former Spanish name for the area.
1845: Texas joined the United States as the 28th state.
1861-1865: During the American Civil War, Bexar County remained part of the Confederacy.
Late 19th-early 20th century: The county saw growth and development with the expansion of railroads, the establishment of military bases like Fort Sam Houston, and the arrival of European immigrants.
1968: HemisFair '68, a world's fair, was held in San Antonio, bringing national and international attention to the city and the county.