Cedron Cemetery and School
Historical marker location:Settlement of northeastern Bosque County began in the 1850s, as people traveling west through the area were attracted to the fertile lands along Cedron Creek. Among the first community projects of the new neighbors was the construction of a school building. A one-room cedar structure, it was also used for church and social gatherings.
The original schoolhouse was replaced in the 1930s by a newer frame structure. Like its predecessor, it also served as a church and community center. The school was consolidated with other area schools in 1938, and the building later was dismantled.
A community cemetery (about one-half miles west) was established on land adjacent to the school building. Although there may have been earlier, undocumented burials, the oldest marked grave is that of school teacher J. T. Hungerford (1844-1880), the apparent victim of tuberculosis. A few days after Hungerford's death, another community resident, Susan J. Arnold (1845-1880) was also buried in the graveyard. Since that time many area citizens have been interred there.
Few residents remain in the Cedron vicinity. The cemetery and school building foundation are the last visible reminders of a once-thriving rural community. (1990)
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 first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
In 1852, the Texas legislature formally established Bosque County, named after the Bosque River, which flows through the area. The county quickly developed as an agricultural hub, with settlers primarily engaged in farming and ranching. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred economic growth and brought increased connectivity to the area.
During the Civil War, Bosque County, like much of Texas, sided with the Confederacy. The county sent troops to fight under the Confederate banner, and the war had a significant impact on the local economy. After the war, Bosque County faced challenges in rebuilding its economy and infrastructure.
In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil and gas brought renewed prosperity to Bosque County. The oil industry brought investment and job opportunities, leading to a period of economic growth and development. Today, Bosque County is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and historical landmarks, making it a popular destination for tourists and a desirable place to live.
Bosque County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bosque County, Texas.
- 1854 - Bosque County is created and organized, named after the Bosque River.
- 1855 - Bosque County's first permanent settlement, Clifton, is established.
- 1861-1865 - During the Civil War, Bosque County supports the Confederacy.
- 1870 - The first courthouse is built in Meridian, which becomes the county seat.
- 1882 - The Waco and Northwestern Railroad is completed, boosting the county's economy.
- 1890s - Bosque County experiences an economic boom due to agriculture and the expansion of railroads.
- 1905 - Meridian becomes the first community in central Texas to have electric lights.
- 1929 - The Great Depression negatively impacts the county's economy.
- 1938 - The Civilian Conservation Corps builds Lake Whitney, a popular recreational site.
- 1940s-1950s - Bosque County's population declines due to outmigration and agricultural changes.
- 1990s - Bosque County experiences population growth and a revitalization of its downtown areas.
- 2015 - Bosque County celebrates its 160th anniversary.