Burleson County C.S.A.
Historical marker location:On Feb. 23, 1861, citizens voted for secession, 422 to 84. On March 1, the "Burleson Guards" organized and offered its services to the state. Most "Guards" were mustered into Co.G, 2nd Texas Infantry Regt., and others served in Walker's Texas Division, Waul's Legion, Terry's Rangers, and Hood's Brigade.
On the home front, the 3rd Regt., 18th Brigade, Texas State Troops, was organized to protect local citizens, and the County Commissioners Court provided funds to supply food and other necessities to the families of soldiers fighting in the war.
(1973)
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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 cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
During the Civil War, Burleson County saw its fair share of turmoil. Many of its residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, while others supported the Union. The county was occupied by Union troops for a short period, which caused further division among its residents.
In the late 19th century, the county experienced an economic boom with the expansion of the railroad. The arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railway in the 1870s brought new opportunities for trade and commerce. Several communities, such as Caldwell and Snook, were established along the railroad routes and became important shipping centers for agricultural products.
Agriculture remained the backbone of the county's economy throughout the 20th century. Cotton, corn, and livestock farming were the mainstay of Burleson County's agricultural industry. The county also experienced growth in oil and gas production during the mid-20th century. In recent years, the county has diversified its economy with the growth of manufacturing and services sectors.
Today, Burleson County is a thriving community with a blend of rural charm and economic development. Its rich history is celebrated through various events and festivals, such as the Burleson County Czech Heritage Festival and the Caldwell Kolache Festival. The county's natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant community make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
Burleson County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Burleson County, Texas.
- 1841 - Burleson County is established as a part of the Republic of Texas
- 1851 - The county seat is established in Caldwell
- 1861-1865 - Burleson County residents actively participate in the American Civil War
- 1870s - The county experiences growth with the arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railroad
- 1881 - A fire destroys many buildings in Caldwell
- 1903 - The Texas A&M Southwest Experiment Station is established in Burleson County
- 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county
- 1940 - Oil and gas discoveries bring some economic relief to Burleson County
- 1976 - The Burleson County Historical Society is formed
- 1990 - The population of Burleson County reaches its peak at over 21,000 residents
- 2000s - The county continues to focus on agricultural and oil industries while experiencing some population growth