Historical Marker

Ruth Cemetery

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

The Ruth community was about midway between Stovall Valley and Henson Creek at the foot of Henson Mountain, on the Gatesville to Killeen Public Road. Settlement dates to 1853 with the abandonment of Fort Gates by the U.S. Army. Settlers moved out of Fort Gates and formed small settlements for self-protection. South Carolina native J. J. Stovall settled in the area in the 1850s. The Ruth Cemetery is on part of his land. The Ruth community had a cotton gin, general stores, blacksmith shop and a post office established in 1885 with J. C. Black as postmaster. A one-room school operated on the east side of farmers branch, on 1/2 acre donated by the George “Juber” Brown and William “Bill” Brown families. The schoolhouse was also used for Methodist, Baptist, Primitive Baptist and Church of Christ services. Ruth school consolidated with Ewing in 1910.

Ruth Cemetery was established on land the Jud Jones family dedicated. The oldest dated gravestone is that of J. J. Stovall, who died April 27, 1878. A 1978 cemetery survey recorded 87 graves. The general landscape of Ruth Cemetery is traditional in nature, with burials oriented east-west and grave markers of granite, limestone, field stone, concrete and metal. A few plots are curbed. Three burials were permitted after Fort Hood was established in 1942, since spouses were already buried here. Interments are no longer permitted. The Ruth Cemetery is now in the Fort Hood military reservation live fire area, and is only accessible to the public on the Sunday before Memorial Day. Fort Hood provides maintenance with two mowings scheduled annually. There is no cemetery association. The cemetery is the last remaining vestige of the Ruth 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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.