Rosedale Cemetery
Historical marker location:When John Kettle Armstrong and his wife Sarah bought 160 acres here in 1844, they were among the first settlers. Sarah died in 1856 and Armstrong set aside this tract for a cemetery. Tradition says the Armstrong slaves were interred outside the grounds. After Armstrong's death in 1860, his second wife Margaret Fisher married a Mr. Stewart. For years the Armstrongs and Stewarts allowed everyone to use the graveyard which was called "Stewart Cemetery."
After the railroad started the town of Gladewater, a cemetery association organized in 1911 and changed the name of the graveyard to "Rosedale." An additional five acres were purchased from J. K. Armstrong and his wife. "Permits" for burial were sold instead of lots. When the East Texas oil boom began, this policy allowed all surface and mineral rights to remain with the association. In 1932 two oil wells were drilled on the burial ground. The association used the profits to build a caretaker's cottage, roads, a rock fence and to landscape the grounds.
In 1973, after 41 years, the wells were plugged. Still in use, the burial ground has about 265 unmarked and 750 marked graves. Many of the older plots are covered with large red rocks
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 Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
In 1839, Gregg County was established as part of the Republic of Texas, named after Texas Confederate States Army General John Gregg. The county grew slowly over the next few decades, with agriculture and cattle ranching being the primary industries. The discovery of oil in East Texas in the early 20th century brought significant economic growth to Gregg County. The prolific East Texas Oilfield attracted oil companies and workers from across the country, leading to a population boom.
During World War II, Gregg County played a crucial role in the war effort. The county's industrial base expanded rapidly as several defense plants were established in the area. The influx of workers and industries contributed to the county's postwar growth and prosperity.
Since then, Gregg County has continued to develop and diversify its economy. It is known for its agriculture, oil and gas production, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. The county is home to the city of Longview, which serves as the county seat and is a major cultural and economic hub in East Texas. Today, Gregg County boasts a rich history, a thriving community, and a promising future.
Gregg County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Gregg County, Texas.
- 1841 – The Texas Congress establishes Gregg County as a county in the Republic of Texas.
- 1846 – Gregg County becomes a part of the United States as part of the state of Texas.
- 1849 – The city of Longview is established as the county seat of Gregg County.
- 1861-1865 – Gregg County residents participate in the American Civil War, with many men serving in the Confederate Army.
- 1872 – The Longview and Pacific Railroad is completed, connecting Gregg County to the national railway system.
- 1873 – The first public school in Gregg County opens in Longview.
- 1930s – The discovery of the East Texas Oil Field leads to an economic boom in Gregg County.
- 1936 – The East Texas State Teachers College (now known as Texas A&M University-Commerce) opens a branch in Longview.
- 1980 – The Longview Mall, the first enclosed shopping mall in East Texas, opens in Longview.
- 2006 – The East Texas Oil Museum, showcasing the history of the oil industry in the region, opens in Kilgore.