County Line Cemetery
Historical marker location:Early settlers to this area included: Eli Henderson McCoy, who came from North Carolina in 1859 and later served in the Confederate Army; Jeremiah Brisco Ormes, who arrived from Mississippi in the 1850s; and Jessie Pierce, who came from Georgia around 1870. These men and their families established what became known as the Crossroads community near the Harrison-Upshur county line.
Early residents founded the County Line Baptist Church, affiliated with the Soda Lake Association. They also established the County Line Cemetery on land donated by Dr. T.B. and Buena Vista (Craver) Burford. Although the original deed was lost, Burford descendants formally deeded the land to the church and cemetery again in 1959.
The number of unmarked graves indicated some may predate the earliest marked one, that of Eli Henderson McCoy (d. 1863). Other tombstones also reflect military service, as well as memberships in fraternal organizations. Unique graves include two early stone cairns. Maintained by descendants of those buried here, County Line Cemetery is an important link to generations of area residents and the stories of their lives.
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
During the mid-19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the development of Texas. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in 1930 brought prosperity and growth to the county. This led to the establishment of several oil companies, driving economic development and creating job opportunities for local residents.
Harrison County was also deeply impacted by slavery and the Civil War. Prior to the war, the county was home to numerous large plantations that relied on enslaved labor for agricultural production. The war left a lasting impact on the county, which continued to struggle with racial tensions and inequality in the years following the war.
Today, Harrison County remains an important part of Texas history and boasts a diverse and vibrant community. The county is home to a number of historic sites, including the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot and the W.C. Dewberry Home and Museum, which showcase the area's rich cultural heritage. With its blend of history and modern progress, Harrison County continues to be a significant contributor to the growth and development of Texas.
Harrison County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Harrison County, Texas.
- 1839 - Harrison County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- 1840 - Marshall becomes the county seat of Harrison County
- 1861-1865 - Harrison County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War
- 1873 - Great Fire of Marshall destroys much of the city
- 1881 - First telephone exchange established in Marshall
- 1902 - Texas and Pacific Railway brings economic growth to the county
- 1930s - Oil discovery leads to an economic boom in Harrison County
- 1979 - East Texas Oil Museum opens in Kilgore, showcasing the region's oil industry
- 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county
- 2020 - Present day