Arlie Cemetery
To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.
The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.
A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
The early days of Childress County were marked by the arrival of pioneers and settlers who established ranches and farms. The region's main industry was agriculture, with cattle and cotton farming being the primary sources of income. The county became an important stop along the Great Western Cattle Trail, which connected Texas ranches with markets up north.
In the late 19th century, the arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway brought significant growth and development to Childress County. The railroad allowed for easier transportation of goods and brought an influx of new settlers to the area. The town of Childress, the county seat, was established and quickly became a hub for commerce and trade.
The 20th century brought further progress to Childress County. Oil was discovered in the area in the 1920s, leading to the establishment of oil fields and increased economic activity. The county also saw advancements in education and infrastructure, with the construction of schools, roads, and other public facilities.
Today, Childress County continues to be a primarily agricultural community, with cattle ranching, cotton farming, and oil production being the main industries. The county offers a peaceful rural lifestyle and is proud of its history and heritage.
Childress County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Childress County, Texas.
- 1876: Childress County is officially established by the Texas legislature.
- 1887: The first post office is established in the county.
- 1890: The town of Childress is founded as the county seat.
- 1891: The Fort Worth and Denver Railway reaches Childress County, boosting economic growth.
- 1898: Childress County experiences a boom in cotton production.
- 1910: The town of Carey is incorporated.
- 1930s: The Great Depression hits Childress County, leading to a decline in population and economic hardships.
- 1936: A severe drought leads to further challenges for the county.
- 1940s: Oil and gas production helps revitalize the local economy.
- 1980s: Childress County experiences economic growth due to agriculture and energy industries.
- 2000s: The county continues to thrive with improved infrastructure and diverse economic sectors.