Historical Marker

Hendrix Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Sherman, Texas
( .3 mi. east of SH 91 on Hilltop Dr. in NE part of Sherman (Marker actually faces Hayes Dr. off Hilltop.))
Marker installed: 1984
Marker size: 27" x 42"

A native of North Carolina, John Hendrix (1798-1893) came to Texas in 1846 with his wife, Ruth (Strader) (1804-1882), their children, and seven other families. Their first camp in the area is marked by a large boulder in this cemetery. Hendrix ran successful farming and nursery operations and became a prominent and influential citizen of Grayson County.

Shortly after his arrival, Hendrix established this cemetery. Located on land he acquired after his settlement here, the one-acre burial ground eventually was deeded to Grayson County. The first known burial, that of the infant son of M. and D. Perdue, took place in 1848. John and Ruth Hendrix are buried here, as is their son Josiah Tompkins and daughter Nancy Hendricks Jennings.

There are approximately forty-five marked graves in the Hendrix Cemetery. Many date from the last half of the nineteenth century and some display illegible inscriptions. An unmarked section in the northwest corner of the graveyard was reserved for slave burials.

Used for more than one hundred years by Hendrix family relatives and descendants, close friends, and associates, the cemetery is a significant reminder of early Grayson County history

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.

gravesites
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Grayson County, Texas has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area that is now Grayson County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Tonkawa, and Shawnee. However, European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1800s, leading to conflicts and the eventual displacement of the Native American populations.

The county itself was established in 1846 and named after Peter Wagener Grayson, a lawyer who served in the Texas legislature. Grayson County quickly grew as settlers moved into the region, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The county's economy flourished with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, which facilitated transportation of goods and boosted trade in the area.

During the Civil War, Grayson County largely supported the Confederacy, and many residents volunteered to serve in the Southern army. After the war, the county faced challenges as it struggled to rebuild and recover from the economic and social impacts of the conflict. However, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of prosperity to Grayson County. Oil fields were developed, attracting workers and boosting the local economy.

Today, Grayson County continues to thrive as a vibrant and growing community. It is home to several cities, including Sherman, the county seat, and Denison. The county is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Texoma, which is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Grayson County also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, museums, and festivals that celebrate its unique history and traditions.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Grayson County, Texas.

  • 1836 - The Republic of Texas is established, including the area now known as Grayson County.
  • 1846 - Grayson County is officially organized and named after Peter W. Grayson, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
  • 1850 - The first courthouse is built in Sherman, becoming the county seat.
  • 1871 - The arrival of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad sparks growth in the county.
  • 1872 - Sherman is incorporated as a city.
  • 1896 - The Red River Bridge, connecting Grayson County to the Oklahoma Territory, is completed.
  • 1900 - The population of Grayson County reaches over 40,000 residents.
  • 1930s - Grayson County is affected by the Great Depression, but starts recovering through federal programs.
  • 1960s - Lake Texoma is created by the Army Corps of Engineers, providing recreational opportunities.
  • 1990s - Grayson County experiences rapid growth due to its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
  • 2006 - The Grayson County Courthouse, built in 1910, undergoes major renovations.