Historical Marker

Wolf Valley Cemetery

Historical marker location:
May, Texas
( from May, take US 183 north about 3 miles)
Marker installed: 1983
Marker size: 27" x 42"

This cemetery originally served pioneer settlers of the Wolf Valley community, which began about 1875. The earliest grave is that of S. T. Tollette, who was buried here May 11, 1882. Also buried that same month were James Lyon and R. P. Ramsey. The cemetery was formally set aside in 1902 when trustees A. E. Bailey, A. W. Hardy and J. W. Spence bought the original tract from the D. M. Davidson family. The site was enlarged through later additions of land. A church building was constructed here in 1887 for use by Baptist, Methodist and Cumberland Presbyterian congregations as well as the local schools. Brush arbors were used for summer revivals. The building and grounds were the spiritual and educational hub of the community. The structure burned, but was rebuilt through donated funds and labor. Graves here include those of pioneer settlers, early community leaders, military veterans and two state legislators, H. P. Taylor and W. R. Chambers. The site contains over three hundred marked graves and two unmarked gravesites. An annual homecoming and Memorial Day service is conducted here each May. Maintenance of the historic burial ground is funded through various donations. (1983)

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.

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Brown County, Texas, located in the central part of the state, holds a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was inhabited by various Native American groups, including the Apache and Comanche, prior to European settlement. In the early 1800s, Spanish explorers ventured into the region, followed by American explorers and traders in the early 1830s.

The county was officially established on August 27, 1856, and was named after Henry Stevenson Brown, a commander during the Texas Revolution. During the mid-19th century, the area experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railroad in 1885 significantly boosted the local economy, leading to a population increase and new opportunities for trade.

Throughout its history, Brown County has been primarily agricultural-based, with cotton being a major crop during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s also brought prosperity to the region. As the county developed, schools, churches, and other infrastructure were established, contributing to the growth and overall wellbeing of the community.

Brown County has faced its fair share of challenges as well. Like many other areas in Texas, it struggled during the Great Depression, but gradually recovered with the help of various New Deal programs. In recent years, the county has focused on diversifying its economy, with industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing becoming more prominent.

Today, Brown County maintains its historical charm and offers a mix of rural landscapes and urban conveniences. It continues to preserve its heritage through various cultural events and historical sites, including the Brown County Museum of History. As the county moves forward, it strives to balance growth with its strong sense of community and appreciation for its past.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Brown County, Texas.

  • 1800s: Brown County was initially inhabited by Comanche and Kiowa Native American tribes.
  • 1849: The County was originally established by the Texas Legislature and named after Henry Stevenson Brown, a Republic of Texas militia major killed at the Battle of Velasco during the Texas Revolution.
  • 1856: The first permanent settlement was established in the county, known as Brownwood, named after Henry Stevenson Brown.
  • 1867: The county was officially organized, and Brownwood became the county seat.
  • 1885: The arrival of the Texas Central Railroad in Brownwood facilitated growth and development in the county.
  • 1903: Howard Payne College, now known as Howard Payne University, was founded in Brownwood.
  • Early 1900s: Cotton and livestock farming were the primary economic activities in Brown County.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression deeply impacted the county's economy, leading to a decline in population and prosperity.
  • 1950s: The discovery of oil and gas reserves brought an economic boom to Brown County.
  • 1970: Lake Brownwood was constructed as a recreational reservoir in the county.
  • 1997: The expansion of Howard Payne University included the renovation and construction of various campus facilities.