Marshall Hebrew Cemetery
Among the pioneer settlers of Harrison County were a number of Jewish families, many of whom were German immigrants. The Hebrew Benevolent Society was organized in 1867 with 25 charter members. In 1881 the society purchased a plot of land to be used as a burial ground.
Known as the Marshall Hebrew Cemetery, this graveyard contains the burials of many prominent citizens and early settlers. The oldest interments are those of the May family, who died in an 1873 yellow fever epidemic. They were originally buried in the city cemetery but were later reinterred here. The earliest documented burials original to this site are those of two children, James Doppelmayer and Florence Bernstein, who died in 1883.
There are fourteen unmarked graves here, as well as burials of veterans of the Civil War, World War I, and World War II. Among the prominent citizens buried in this cemetery are Daniel Doppelmayer, first president of the Moses Montefiore congregation; Rabbi Max Sylvious Handman; members of the Kahn and Weisman families; and other early business and community leaders
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 discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum 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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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