Historic Cemetery

Rocky Creek Cemetery

a.k.a. Rocky Community Cemetery

Texas
Location: 4 miles east of Hye and then 2 miles south of 290. South of Pleasant Valley.

Source: Parsons, Kim, Ref. to Texas Cemeteries, 1988; THC files; TxGenWeb; usgennet;TxDot 63 maps; USGS

Established in the mid-19th century, Rocky Creek Cemetery stands as a testament to the westward expansion of the United States during that era. It was founded as the final resting place for early settlers who ventured into Blanco County, including figures like Samuel Johnson and Sarah Turner, whose descendants played pivotal roles in the community's development.

The American Civil War left an indelible mark on Rocky Creek Cemetery, as it became a resting place for soldiers who participated in the conflict. Notably, it houses the graves of Confederate soldier James Davis and Union soldier Henry Mitchell, symbolizing the complex and unifying nature of this turbulent period in American history.

Blanco County's rich cultural tapestry is vividly represented within the cemetery's grounds. Tombstones and markers provide glimpses into the lives and stories of Mexican-American families like the Garcias, European-American settlers like the Harrisons, and Indigenous individuals like the Comanches, each contributing their unique heritage to the region.

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
Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
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.