Historical Marker

Sadler Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Sadler, Texas
( FM 901 at Frank Wood Road, quarter mile south of US 82, one mile south of Sadler)
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 27" x 42"

This land was already in use as a burial ground known as Bethlehem Cemetery when it was officially dedicated in county records in 1884. Bethlehem Church, the source of the original name, was originally across the road before the congregation disbanded. In 1884, S. M. and Maggie Lester conveyed nearly four acres to trustees R. L. Belsher, H. C. Hall, and B. S. Hackleman. The Sadler Cemetery Association was formed and the burial ground was renamed Sadler Cemetery. The cemetery was recorded in deeds “to be used by the public as a public cemetery, and for no other purposes, whatsoever.” The cemetery expanded through land conveyed by R. G. and Gertrude Mood in 1917 and by Almedia Flannery in 1955 and 1966.

J. J. Sadler (1836-1923) moved here in 1870 and donated land for his namesake town; he is the only known Civil War veteran in Sadler Cemetery. A total of thirty-seven veterans have been identified, including veterans of both World Wars, the Merchant Marines, Korean War, and Vietnam War. Three known Grayson County commissioners are also among the approximately one thousand burials. Funerary materials include granite, limestone, marble, concrete and wooden grave markers; obelisks, masonic and Woodmen of the World markers are noteworthy. The Sadler Cemetery provides an invaluable record of pioneer area families, as well as beloved teachers, preachers and business and civic leaders. Still in use, the cemetery reflects the continuum of the area’s history, with clearly discernible pioneer and modern sections which help educate about the names, events and heritage of the past

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.
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.