Historic Cemetery

Taylor #2 Cemetery

a.k.a. Taylor Plantation, Taylor Plantation Slave Graves

Wheeler Springs, Texas
Location: Driving Directions:From FM 229/FM 2544 junction, go 3.2 miles west on FM 2544/CR 2210 (Note: FM 2544 becomes CR 2210 at end of pavement) to private gated road on left (south) side of road. From end of pavement, where FM 2544 ends and CR 2210 begins, it is approx. 0.9 mile west to private road. Turn left onto gated, private road and go 0.6 mile south. Cemetery is located just a few feet east of the private road, along a white wood fence. The cemetery is enclosed by white wood fence. This cemetery reportedly contains the graves of slaves and former slaves of the Taylor Plantation. The Taylor Family cemetery (HO-C223) is located approx. 273 ft. southwest of this cemetery (HO-C287). This cemetery is partly fenced and appears to be seasonally maintained. A white wooden fence encloses the cemetery. A section of the fence is missing, but the property owner is planning to repair it. Cemetery features include one formal headstone and at least six inscribed fieldstones The inscription on the formal headstone reads:FrankGilmoreDiedFeb. 17, 1898"His many virtues form the noblest moment to his memory"The fieldstone inscriptions are not legible. The cemetery is not a map feature, and there are no cemetery signs. The cemetery is located on private property, and permission is required to access the cemetery.

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.