Historical Marker

Rock Hill Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Brownsboro, Texas
( from Brownsboro, E on Old Tyler Hwy, .5 mi. N on CR 3405)
Marker installed: 2008
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Rock Hill Cemetery has served this area since the late 1800s. It is located on land granted to pioneer Alexander J. Clayton, who migrated here from Alabama with his wife, Martha (Carver), and his children in 1854. Clayton, who was born in North Carolina, was a farmer and leader in the Rock Hill community, which developed around the Rock Hill Baptist Church. Residents of Rock Hill, and the nearby settlements of Martin Springs and Pine Hill, were the first to use this cemetery The earliest recorded interment here, of Juno Martin, a young daughter of settlers Robert James and Lenora (Taylor) Martin, dates to 1885.

In 1900, one of Alexander Clayton's sons, Rufus, sold property he inherited, including two acres set aside for burials, to his brother Columbus, formally establishing the cemetery. Rufus and Columbus were farmers and school district trustees. Others buried here include farmers, early area settlers, community leaders and veterans of military conflicts.

Features in the cemetery include curbing, an enclosed wall of sandstone surrounding a grave, vertical stones and Woodmen of the World markers. Through the years, need for additional land arose; various individuals graciously contributed property to the cemetery in 1979 and 1984. In 1982, relatives of those interred here established the Rock Hill Cemetery Association to maintain the burial ground. Today, Rock Hill Cemetery continues to serve the area and remains as a testament to the early Henderson County pioneers and residents of the Rock Hill, Martin Springs and Pine Hill communities. Historic Texas Cemetery-2006

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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.