Historical Marker

Cataline Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Canadian, Texas
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 18" x 28"

The Cataline community predates Hemphill County’s organization. Families moving to this area established the county’s first school (1885) and church (1887). A post office opened in Feb. 1887, five months before the county organized. In March 1896, infant Emma Turner died, and a small hill with a view to the Washita River Valley was chosen for her burial. The Methodist Episcopal Church bought three acres from the state of Texas to officially establish the community burial ground in July 1896. The site attests to hardships in a remote community; burials here include nine children under age one. The cemetery, which features granite and iron gravestones and interior fencing, remains as the last historic vestige of Cataline

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
There’s a freedom you begin to feel the closer you get to Austin, Texas.
Willie Nelson in Interview in The Wall Street Journal
Hemphill County is located in the Panhandle region of Texas and has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa. These tribes thrived in the region for thousands of years, relying on the vast grasslands and abundant wildlife for sustenance.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began moving into the area, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for ranching. Hemphill County was officially established in 1876, named after John Hemphill, a former Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court. The county played a significant role in Texas' cattle industry, with large ranches dominating the landscape. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further contributed to the county's growth and economic development.

The county experienced some hardships over the years, including droughts, economic downturns, and challenges associated with World War II. However, it managed to persevere and adapt to the changing times. In recent years, Hemphill County has diversified its economy beyond ranching and agriculture, embracing other industries such as oil and gas exploration and wind energy production.

Today, Hemphill County continues to honor its Western heritage and is home to the Canadian River Valley Pioneer Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region. With its scenic landscapes, vibrant communities, and historical significance, Hemphill County remains an important part of Texas' story.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hemphill County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Hemphill County is created by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1887 - Canadian becomes the county seat of Hemphill County.
  • 1890 - The first newspaper, the Hemphill County News, is published in Canadian.
  • 1901 - The Panhandle-Plains Land Bank is established in Canadian.
  • 1909 - The first courthouse in Canadian is completed.
  • 1928 - The first oil well is drilled in Hemphill County.
  • 1941-1945 - Hemphill County contributes to the war effort during World War II.
  • 1960s - The oil industry experiences a boom in Hemphill County.
  • 1995 - The Canadian River Municipal Water Authority is formed.
  • 2010 - Hemphill County celebrates its 100th anniversary.