Historical Marker

Pleasant Grove Cemetery

Marker installed: 2013
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

The 1850 U.S. census lists 94 soldiers at Fort Gates, including Irish-born Hugh Sheridan. After Fort Gates closed in March 1853, Sheridan and other families settled on farms in the Leon River lowlands. They established the Pleasant Grove community, likely named for the groves of post oak trees scattered in the area. Sheridan, Nimrod Brown, William B. Powell, and the Worthington, Traller, Cummings, Price and Hall families were among the first landowners. John Marshall Brown, son of Nimrod Brown, was appointed trustee of Pleasant Grove School District No. 26 by Coryell County Judge S. B. Raby in Nov. 1877. William B. Powell donated land for a school in 1883, stipulating that religious services be permitted in the building. The school enrolled 41 students in 1902. Pleasant Grove residents attended the 1904 farmers education and co-operative union in Mound, and had a democratic club in 1908. The school operated until 1910, when Pleasant Grove, Farmers Branch and Branchville schools consolidated to form the Ewing school district.

A community burial ground was established on the farm of Walter T. Worthington. The earliest dated gravestone is for Catherine Janes, who died in 1867 at age 74. Dozens of burials had occurred by 1899, when Worthington deeded two acres “to be used by Pleasant Grove community as a graveyard forever and I also sell to said community the fence as it now stands on the north side of this tract of land, for $25.00.” Notable burials include military veterans from the Civil War through World War II, and an unusual inscription for Joseph H. Taller noting he was born at sea in 1832. Fort Hood provides maintenance for this still-active cemetery, which is the last remaining historic resource of the Pleasant Grove community

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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Coryell County, located in central Texas, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, and Comanche. The first European explorers arrived in the 18th century, with the Spanish establishing missions in the region. However, it was not until the mid-19th century that permanent settlements began to develop.

During the Texas Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of Texas, Coryell County saw significant growth. The area attracted pioneers and settlers who were drawn by the fertile land along the rivers. In 1854, the county was officially organized and named after James Coryell, an early frontiersman who was known for exploring and surveying the area.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Coryell County experienced periods of prosperity and challenges. Agriculture, particularly cotton production, played a significant role in the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century enhanced the county's connectivity and spurred growth in trade and commerce.

The county also contributed to the military history of Texas. During World War II, Camp Hood (now Fort Hood) was established in the southern part of Coryell County. The military installation has had a profound impact on the local economy, serving as an economic engine and a significant employer for the region.

Today, Coryell County continues to thrive as a vibrant community. It is home to a diverse population and offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The county's rich history can be seen in its historic buildings, museums, and landmarks, all of which provide a glimpse into the past and contribute to the county's unique cultural identity.

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

  • 1854 - Coryell County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1859 - The county seat, Gatesville, is established.
  • 1861-1865 - The American Civil War impacts Coryell County, leading to economic hardships.
  • 1872 - The Texas Central Railroad is completed, boosting the county's economy.
  • 1882 - The first county courthouse is constructed.
  • 1905 - The original county courthouse is replaced with a new building.
  • 1929 - The Coryell County Museum opens, showcasing the area's history.
  • 1942-1946 - The county experiences growth during World War II due to the establishment of Camp Hood (now Fort Hood).
  • 1963 - The current county courthouse is built, replacing the 1905 building.
  • 1997 - The Coryell County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.