Palo Duro Wildorado Cemetery
Historical marker location:Early settlers to this area included the J.C. Womble family, which came in January 1892. The next year, the community obtained land on which to build a schoolhouse, known as the Union School. In May 1893, George D. Whitfield, a young cowboy, was buried in what was the schoolyard. His is the first marked burial, although two earlier graves were known to exist at the time.
In 1901, residents organized the Palo Duri Missionary Baptist Church and held services in the schoolhouse. They moved across the road in 1905. In May 1910, the school moved approximately two miles north, and the property reverted back to its original owner. The land with the gravesites was deeded to the community in 1914 for use as a cemetery.
During the mid-20th century, area residents bought additional land and added a well and fence. As the burial site of numerous area residents, as well as men and women veterans of the military, the cemetery serves as a link to the area's rich history.
Historic Texas Cemetery - 2004
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 University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is one of the largest universities in the United States and has produced many notable alumni, including several U.S. presidents.
In 1876, the Texas Legislature established Deaf Smith County, named after Erastus "Deaf" Smith, a deaf mute scout and hero of the Texas Revolution. The county was officially organized in 1890 with the town of Hereford serving as the county seat. Agriculture quickly became the dominant industry, with cattle ranching and farming driving the local economy.
The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further spurred growth in Deaf Smith County. It opened up new markets and opportunities for farmers and ranchers to transport their goods. The population grew steadily, and new towns and communities were established throughout the area.
In the 20th century, Deaf Smith County faced a series of challenges, including the Dust Bowl of the 1930s and the Great Depression. However, the county survived and rebounded with the help of federal programs and initiatives. Today, the economy of Deaf Smith County is diversified, with agriculture, manufacturing, and retail sectors contributing to its prosperity. The county's rich history and resilient spirit continue to shape its identity and pave the way for a promising future.
Deaf Smith County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Deaf Smith County, Texas.
- 1838 - Josiah Hughes Bell settles in the area, becoming the first English-speaking settler in what is now Deaf Smith County
- 1874 - The Texas Legislature officially establishes Deaf Smith County
- 1881 - The town of Hereford is founded as the county seat
- 1913 - The county experiences a major oil and gas boom, leading to rapid growth and economic prosperity
- 1929 - The Great Depression hits, causing significant economic hardship in the county
- 1935 - The Works Progress Administration (WPA) builds Palo Duro High School, the first high school in Deaf Smith County
- 1955 - Pantex, a nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, is established in the county, becoming a major employer and economic driver
- 1969 - The Deaf Smith County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history
- 1995 - The Hereford Independent School District constructs a new high school building
- 2017 - Deaf Smith County celebrates its 143rd anniversary