Historical Marker

Reliance Church Cemetery

Marker installed: 2008
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Two Bryan attorneys, M.J. Beale and B.K. Davis, donated four acres of land at this site in April 1874 for the purpose of establishing the Reliance Baptist Church, School and Cemetery. The community was originally called Little Georgia, taking its name from the state of origin of an early 1850s wagon train of settlers. More families from the southeastern United States arrived in the 1870s, escaping economic hardships following the Civil War by emigrating to Texas. David Lloyd of Mississippi changed the community’s name to Reliance in 1873 with the organization of the Reliance Baptist Church.

W.H. (Uncle Billy) Morgan established a cotton gin and general store in 1873, and also served as postmaster. In the late 19th century, Reliance included a country store, post office, gristmill, cotton gin, school, church and community center. As intensive cotton farming eroded the soil, area farms transformed into extensive cattle ranches. By the 21st century, the church and cemetery remained historic fixtures in an area transitioning to rural residential development.

The cemetery is sited among century-old post oak, elm and hackberry trees. The earliest marked grave dates to 1881, although several older undated graves are believed to exist here. Community members made additional donations of land in 1951 and 1995, nearly doubling the original size of the church and cemetery property. The cemetery property is held jointly by the Reliance Baptist Church and the Reliance Cemetery Association, which governs the operation and maintenance of the historic burial ground. Historic Texas Cemetery - 2007

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.

gravesites Anglo American
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Brazos County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its establishment in 1841. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Tonkawa peoples. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1820s, attracted by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources of the region.

The county was officially created in 1841 and named after the Brazos River that flows through the area. During the mid-19th century, Brazos County experienced significant economic growth due to the expansion of cotton farming. The construction of railroads in the late 1800s further spurred development, leading to the establishment of new towns such as Bryan, which later became the county seat.

Brazos County played an important role in the Civil War, with many of its residents supporting the Confederacy. Throughout the war, Union troops occasionally invaded the county, leading to skirmishes between soldiers and local militias. The end of the war brought an era of reconstruction and the county, like many others in the South, faced significant economic challenges as it struggled to rebuild.

In the 20th century, Brazos County experienced steady growth and development. The presence of Texas A&M University, which was established in 1876, has had a major impact on the county's economy and cultural landscape. Today, Brazos County is a vibrant community known for its educational institutions, agriculture, and rich history.

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

  • 1821 - Mexico gains independence from Spain, including the area that would become Brazos County.
  • 1837 - Brazos County is officially founded and named after the Brazos River.
  • 1854 - Texas A&M University is established in Brazos County.
  • 1861 - The Civil War begins, affecting Brazos County and leading to economic challenges.
  • 1882 - The first railroad reaches Bryan, the county seat of Brazos County, enhancing transportation and trade.
  • 1900 - The town of Marystown, later renamed College Station, is established near Texas A&M University.
  • 1930 - The area experiences significant population growth due to the expansion of Texas A&M University.
  • 1943 - During World War II, the Bryan Air Base is established in Brazos County, contributing to the local economy.
  • 1970 - George Bush, future President of the United States, moves to College Station and becomes involved in local politics.
  • 1999 - The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is opened at Texas A&M University.