Historic Cemetery

Rockland Cemetery East

a.k.a. Rockland Cemetery, black

Crockett, Texas 75835
Location: Rockland East Cemetery, Black (1977) Post Oak district, located between Crockett and Lovelady E of Hwy 19 joining the Woodard Coal Mine in the 1800s. 10 miles S of Crockett E of Hwy 19.(1987) located E of the Rockland Cemetery (white) in the Lone Pine Community, 10 miles S of Crockett of SH 19 or 5 miles N of Lovelady off SH 19. Turn E off SH 19 onto dirt road with sign "Rockland", travel .5 to white burial ground. This cemetery is behind this fenced area and can be seen by crossing the front cemetery. It has been allowed to be overrun with underbrush and is inaccessible.(1998) 10 mi S of Crockett on TX 19 and .5 mi E on CR 4035 in the Lone Pine Community.(USGenWeb) Same directions as Rockland, but before you walk in the front gate of Rockland, go to you R around the fence. These graves are outside the fenced area in a less well kept area.(cemeteries-of-tx.com) photos.A Reference to Texas Cemetery Records, Kim Parsons, 1988; Houston County Cemeteries, Houston county Historical Commission, 1977; Houston County Cemeteries, Third Edition, Houston County Historical Commission, 1987; Supplement to Houston County Texas Cemeteries Third Edition, 1998; USGenWeb Archives; cemeteries-of-tx.com; topo mapTHC site visit MB 11/14/04: Lovelady, Tx area. SH 19, E on CR 4035 for 0.6 miles, up slight incline, adjacent to cattle pastures to S and E, and Rockland Cem, white to N. No sign. Access somewhat obscured by pasture fence and Rockland White Cem. Set back from road 475 ft. Large fenced site, rolling terrain bounded by pasture and adjacent cemetery. One large fenced family plot, formal markers, including obelisks, carnes, local castings, some homemade markers, slabs. One unique sheet metal covering of large carne/vault, professional construction. Abundant floral grave materials. US veterans. Approx 1.56 acres plus common access area of 0.72 acre. GPS 31.11.53.63439N –95.28.03.09283W Quad 3195-123Low risk of endangerment, still in use, maintained, fenced, not on map but adjacent to THC marker site.

Source: RIP Fields Table

To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.

The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.

A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.

gravesites
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Texas random facts
Houston County, Texas, located in the eastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area that is now Houston County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Atakapa, who lived off the lands and waterways. However, the first European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 19th century, sparking a new chapter in the region's history.

In 1838, Houston County was officially established and named after Sam Houston, a prominent figure in the Texas Revolution and later the Republic of Texas. The county became a focal point during this time, with numerous conflicts between settlers and Native American tribes, as well as various clashes involving Mexican troops.

During the mid-19th century, Houston County experienced rapid growth and development, as many settlers were attracted to the area's fertile soil and abundant natural resources. Immigrants from various European countries, such as Germany and Austria, arrived in large numbers, contributing to the cultural diversity of the county. Additionally, the construction of railroads in the late 1800s played a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and connecting Houston County to neighboring regions.

In the 20th century, Houston County faced several challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the timber industry. However, the discovery of oil in neighboring counties brought new economic opportunities to the region and provided a much-needed boost to Houston County's economy. Today, Houston County continues to thrive as a vibrant rural community, with a rich history that is celebrated through numerous historic sites, museums, and events that showcase its past.

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

  • 1837 - Houston County is created and organized from Nacogdoches County.
  • 1839 - The county seat, Crockett, is established and named after David Crockett.
  • 1854 - The Houston and Great Northern Railroad is built through the county, boosting economic development.
  • 1861-1865 - Houston County residents actively participate in the Civil War.
  • 1881 - The discovery of oil in the county leads to an oil boom.
  • 1893 - The Houston County courthouse is destroyed by fire.
  • 1936 - The Texas State Park Board establishes Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.
  • 1968 - Hurricane Beulah causes significant damage to the county.
  • 2008 - Hurricane Ike causes widespread destruction and power outages in the area.
  • 2020 - Houston County celebrates its 183rd anniversary.