Dennis Cemetery
Historical marker location:Allen and Eliza Ann Dennis and their family were among the earliest settlers of this part of Cass County. In 1856 they purchased the land surrounding this site. Eliza Ann Dennis died on January 27, 1873, and was buried on the family farm. Allen Dennis died in 1880 and was interred next to his wife. The land surrounding their graves became a family cemetery, which was later enlarged by a contribution of land from the E. G. Smith family.
Among the over three hundred burials in the Dennis Cemetery are those of many Cass County pioneers, including members of the Smith, Baughmon, Mason, Bufford, Stiles, and Nelson families. The graveyard also contains a number of unmarked burials.
The Dennis Cemetery first appeared in county deed records in 1878, when the Dennis family sold the property to d. W. Webb. The two-acre plot was reserved for burial purposes, and in a later deed in 1890 it was referred to as the Dennis Graveyard.
The Dennis Cemetery serves as a physical reminder of early settlement in Cass County. Still a community burial place, it is maintained by a cemetery association formed in 1976
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 oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
The county was named after Lewis Cass, a statesman and politician from Michigan who served as Secretary of State under President James Buchanan. In its early years, Cass County saw rapid growth, fueled by the discovery of rich mineral deposits, including lead, zinc, and coal. The county became an important center for the mining industry and attracted numerous settlers and investors seeking economic opportunities.
Cass County played an important role during the Civil War, as it was strategically located between the Confederate and Union forces. The county experienced both Union and Confederate occupation during the war, and many of its residents enlisted in both armies. The war left a lasting impact on the county, with many buildings and properties destroyed or damaged.
After the Civil War, Cass County experienced a period of slow recovery, but it gradually rebounded with the development of agriculture, particularly cotton and timber industries. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought another wave of growth and prosperity to the county. Today, Cass County continues to thrive as a rural community with a strong agricultural base and a rich historical heritage.
Cass County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Cass County, Texas.
- 1848 - Cass County is established as a county in Texas.
- 1850s - The population of Cass County booms with the discovery of oil in the area.
- 1861-1865 - Cass County sends many soldiers to fight in the American Civil War.
- 1880s - The railroad arrives in Cass County, further boosting its economy and population.
- 1930s - The Great Depression hits Cass County, leading to economic struggles for the community.
- 1950s - The construction of Lake O' the Pines brings recreational opportunities to Cass County.
- 1970s - Cass County experiences a decline in population due to the decline of the oil industry.
- 2000s - Cass County focuses on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism.