Powell-Tull Cemetery
Historical marker location:John Powell (1826-1889) was the first to be interred here in 1889. It was this event that caused the Powell family to set aside this land as a burial ground that was to serve them, as well as the Bolton, Busby, Greer, McRae, Sims, Suggs, Sylvester, Taylor and Tull families. One of the Tulls, Thomas Marion (1836-1921), was a Confederate veteran who, with his wife, Amy Caple (1835-1919), came here from Arkansas, where he had served in the state legislature and as a justice of the peace. The lives of these Falls County pioneers are remembered by descendants who continue to care for this site that chronicles their families' heritage. Historic Texas Cemetery - 2001
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.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in Falls County, drawn by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources. The county was officially established in 1850, and the town of Marlin was designated as the county seat. The development of railroads during this period further spurred the growth of the region, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people.
During the Civil War, Falls County, like many other parts of Texas, heavily supported the Confederacy. The economy revolved around agriculture, especially cotton plantations, which relied on enslaved labor. However, the war brought multiple challenges to the county, including shortages of supplies and soldiers, as well as occasional conflicts with Union forces.
In the post-war era, Falls County faced a period of rebuilding and diversification. The reliance on cotton continued, but other industries such as livestock ranching and oil extraction began to play a significant role in the county's economy. Over the years, Falls County has gone through various changes and challenges, but it remains a vibrant community with a rich history tied to the land and its people.
Falls County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Falls County, Texas.
- 1837 - Falls County is established by the Republic of Texas
- 1838 - The county seat is established in Perryville
- 1850 - Marlin becomes the new county seat
- 1861-1865 - Falls County residents serve in the Civil War
- 1873 - The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Marlin
- 1886 - The town of Lott is incorporated
- 1896 - The Marlin Female Institute is established
- 1910 - A serious cotton boll weevil infestation hits the county
- 1921 - The infamous Klan trials take place in Marlin
- 1953 - Falls County dedicates a new courthouse
- 1975 - Marlin State Hospital is designated a National Historic Landmark
- 1996 - The Marlin Democrat newspaper celebrates its 125th anniversary
- 2018 - Falls County celebrates its 180th anniversary