Historical Marker

Balis Edens Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Grapeland, Texas
( 7.2 miles west of Grapeland on FM 1272 to intersection with CR 2235)
Marker installed: 1997
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Balis Edens was born in 1805 in South Carolina, the son of John Edens and his wife Lavinia Langford. The family moved to Texas in 1831, and in 1834 John Edens received a league and labor of land in the David G. Burnet colony. Balis Edens had remained in Louisiana, but followed his family to Texas in 1838. In 1839, he joined Captain James Cleveland's company of mounted rangers and later returned home where he farmed and built and repaired cotton gins. He married Elizabeth Thompson Grigsby in 1842; she died in 1843. Edens then married Ruth Ann Grigsby.

When John Edens died in 1857, Balis Edens inherited land on Elkhardt Creek in Houston County and moved there with his family. The Balis Edens Cemetery was established on the land with the burial of Balis and Ruth Ann Edens' son, Isaac Newton Edens, in 1873. Later that year Balis Edens died and was buried in the cemetery. Also interred there are Vivian Edens, 1875; Luvinia Edens Beazley, 1876; John M. Edens, 1877; Sarah Matthews Edens, 1878; Rebecca Matthews Edens, 1882. The last recorded burial was that of Ruth Ann Grigsby Edens in 1884. The site is maintained by members of the Edens Family Association. (1997)

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.

gravesites
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
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.