Historical Marker

Allen Cemetery

Marker installed: 2008
Marker size: 27" x 42"

This burial ground has served the residents of Murchison since the late 1800s. The Murchison Community, named for confederate officer T.F. Murchison, developed as a station on the Texas and St. Louis railway. A number of individuals and families migrated to Murchison from other states, and the town soon boasted a school, post office, cotton gin, and several businesses and churches. Most area residents were farmers who grew crops including corn, cotton and peaches.

Around 1902, Gideon F. Dodson moved to Murchison from Tennessee, joining his son, Hubert, who was already living here. He was joined by his wife, Molly (McCarver), and his children. Dodson was a large landowner and farmer, and served as a unity school board trustee. He purchased land bordering Kickapoo Creek and donated acreage for this cemetery, which was already in use.

The oldest marked grave here is of James Mack Pettiet, dating to 1890. Another early interment is of J.C. Allen (d. 1893), whose family is the namesake of this burial ground. The Hardin, Slaton, McGlaun, Caldwell, Adams and Perry families are among other early pioneers represented here. Also interred are community leaders, farmers, ranchers and veterans from conflicts dating to the civil war.

The Allen Cemetery association cares for the burial ground, which features vertical stones and fraternal organization markers. Today, Allen Cemetery continues to serve as a reminder of pioneers

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.

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Henderson County, located in the northeastern part of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history. Before the arrival of European settlers, the area was home to various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. The land became a part of the Republic of Texas in 1836 and was formally organized as Henderson County in 1846, named in honor of James Pinckney Henderson, the first governor of Texas.

In the mid-19th century, Henderson County experienced a significant influx of settlers, mainly from the southern United States. These settlers primarily engaged in agriculture, taking advantage of the fertile soils and favorable climate to grow crops such as cotton, corn, and vegetables. The first county seat was established in Athens, which remains the county seat to this day.

During the Civil War, Henderson County, like much of the South, was affected by the conflict. Although there were no significant battles fought in the area, the war had a profound impact on the local economy and social fabric. Many men from Henderson County enlisted in the Confederate Army, and the war's aftermath brought significant challenges and changes to the region.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henderson County continued to thrive, with the agricultural industry playing a pivotal role in the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further bolstered economic development, facilitating the transportation of goods and increasing opportunities for trade. Over time, other industries such as manufacturing and healthcare also emerged. Today, Henderson County remains a vibrant community, preserving its rich heritage while embracing progress and growth.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Henderson County, Texas.

  • 1846 - Henderson County established as a county of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1850 - First census conducted, showing a population of 1,714.
  • 1851 - Athens becomes the county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Henderson County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1880 - Cotton production becomes a major industry in the county.
  • 1902 - The first oil well is drilled in the county, leading to the development of the oil industry.
  • 1930s-1940s - Henderson County experiences economic growth due to the construction of the Cross Lake Dam and the establishment of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Fish Hatchery and Fish Experiment Station.
  • 1960s-1970s - Lake Palestine and Cedar Creek Lake are created, attracting tourism and real estate development.
  • 1987 - The Henderson County Courthouse is destroyed by fire but is rebuilt and restored.
  • 2000 - The population of Henderson County reaches 73,277.
  • 2019 - Henderson County celebrates its 173rd anniversary since establishment.