Historical Marker

Eller Flat Cemetery

Historical marker location:
miles south on U.S. 83, then 20 miles east on U.S. 33, then 1/2 mile north on Co.Rd. 28., Canadian, Texas
Marker installed: 2009
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Also known as Prairie Dell Cemetery, this burial ground has served eastern Hemphill county since 1895, when Dora Calhoun, an infant, was interred here. George W. Little, a landowner in the then-thriving Eller Flat community, donated property for her gravesite. Charles H. and Jesse Rutter purchased Little’s land in 1905, and continued to allow community residents to use the burial ground. In 1912, the Eller Flat Cemetery Association purchased this property, which contained about 35 graves. By 1917, residents built Prairie Dell School (0.7 mi. W), which became associated with the cemetery. Today, Eller Flat (Prairie Dell) Cemetery continues to serve area residents

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
Texas has yet to learn submission to any oppression, come from what source it may.
Sam Houston in Speech to the Constitutional Convention of 1868
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.