Cockerell Hospital
Historical marker location:In 1929, Dr. Lonnie Lee Cockerell (1879-1969) bought second-story building space on the northeast corner of the Eustace city square. The next year, he opened the first hospital in Henderson County. Dr. Cockerell offered a wide variety of services, ranging from vaccinations to dental work to surgery. Eustace residents came to the hospital for both acute and chronic health issues, and Dr. Cockerell accepted all patients, regardless of their ability to pay for services. In 1937, Dr. Cockerell began construction on a new hospital in Athens. He maintained the Eustace location until completion of the new structure. Although Cockerell Hospital closed in 1937, the physician continued to care for his Eustace patients. (2008)
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.
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.
Henderson County Timeline
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.