Historic Cemetery

Johnson City Masonic Cemetery

a.k.a. Masonic Cemetery

Johnson City, Texas 78636
Location: Johnson City, northern portion of town. Take 281 about .5 miles north from junction with 290. Cemetery is on west (left) side of road.

Source: ParsonsTHCfiles TxGenWeb usgennet TxDot63USGS

To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.

The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.

A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.

gravesites
The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
Texas random facts
Blanco County, located in central Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early days of European exploration and settlement in the region. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Comanches and Lipan Apaches. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries arrived in the area, leaving behind a few names like Blanco, which means "white" in Spanish and was inspired by the limestone bluffs along the Blanco River.

The first permanent settlements in Blanco County were established in the 1850s by pioneers attracted by the fertile land and abundant water sources. These early settlers were primarily farmers and ranchers who built thriving communities such as Blanco and Johnson City. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought increased prosperity and facilitated the export of agricultural products, particularly wool and livestock.

Blanco County played a significant role in the history of Texas during the 20th century. In 1905, the county seat was moved from Blanco to Johnson City, which became the birthplace of President Lyndon B. Johnson. The LBJ Ranch, where the President lived for much of his life, is now a National Historic Site that attracts visitors from around the world.

Today, Blanco County continues to thrive as a popular destination for tourism, particularly due to its scenic beauty, wineries, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The county's rich history is celebrated through various museums, monuments, and annual events that showcase its cultural heritage. Whether exploring the stunning landscapes, visiting historic sites, or experiencing the local hospitality, Blanco County offers a glimpse into the fascinating history of Texas.

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

  • 1839 - Blanco County is established and named after the Blanco River.
  • 1850s - German immigrants begin to settle in the area, establishing farms and ranches.
  • 1855 - The town of Blanco is founded as the county seat.
  • 1860s - Blanco County becomes a center for cattle ranching and agriculture.
  • 1869 - The Blanco County Courthouse is built, which still stands today.
  • 1873 - The first public school is opened in Blanco County.
  • 1885 - The Cedar Mountain School, the first high school in the county, is founded.
  • 1891 - The Blanco County News, the first newspaper in the county, is established.
  • 1900s - The county experiences economic growth with the expansion of the railroad and the growth of the granite industry.
  • 1928 - The Pedernales Electric Cooperative is established, providing electricity to rural areas of Blanco County.
  • 1960s - Tourism becomes an important industry in Blanco County, with visitors attracted to the scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
  • 1997 - The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is established, preserving the home and ranch of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson.