Historical Marker

Temple Emanu-El Cemetery

Marker installed: 2017
Marker size: 18" x 28" marker with post

In 1957, Longview members of Kilgore's Temple Beth Sholom established a new synagogue, Temple Emanu-El, along with a new burial ground as part of the larger Memory Park Cemetery. Temple Emanu-El Cemetery became Harrison County's second dedicated Jewish Cemetery (after Marshall Hebrew Cemetery, established in 1881). Most plots are owned by temple members, and the temple itself owns the unreserved plots, which are available to temple members. A notable burial is Rabbi Charles Mantinband (1895-1974), a national civil rights leader who served here from 1963-1971. The cemetery remains a sacred place for Jewish activity and memory in the region. Historic Texas Cemetery - 2016

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 is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
Texas random facts
Harrison County, located in northeastern Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. In 1839, the Republic of Texas incorporated Harrison County, naming it after Jonas Harrison, a lawyer and Texas revolutionary. The county quickly became an important center for commerce and government.

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.

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