Historic Cemetery

Bynum Cemetery

Crockett, Texas 75835
Location: Bynum Cemetery(THC) 9.2 miles W of Crockett on SH 21; 2.2 miles S on CR 3380; .1 mile W on CR 3390Old Shiloh(1977) take Hwy 21 to telephone building on left, turn left on dirt road in front of small building, as a fence in front of you turn right, cemetery is in sight.(1987) about 9 miles out Hwy 21 W or can be reached by going on FM 2110 (Old Huntsville Road) about 9 miles to the end of the hard-top. Turn right on a dirt road, go about 2.5 miles to the Old Shiloh Methodist Church, cemetery is fenced in.(1998) 9 mi W of Crockett on Hwy 21, turn L onto CR 3380 for about 2 mi; the cemetery is at the intersection with CR 3390.(USGenWeb) SW of Crockett down Hwy 21. Turn L at CR 3380 and R on CR 3390(cemeteries-of-tx.com) photosTHC site visit MB 12-12-04: Crockett, Tx area. SH 21 W of Loop 305 at CR 3380, SE for 2 miles to T intersection, R on CR 3390 for 0.1 mile to site on N side of road. Large fenced site, some flagging suggesting annex in progress. Cem assoc. THC marker. Formal site with diversity of formal markers over time, including obelisks, slabs, petrified wood, fieldstones, homemade markers, marbles, folk markers, metal vertical markers, some funeral markers. Marker shrubs and trees, including Irises, Crape Myrtles, Gardenias, Cedar, Oak and Magnolia. Abundant floral and decorative grave materials, recent burials. US veterans, WoW, CSA. Approx 1.47 acres. GPS 31.12.41.10179N –95.33.51.15795W USGS 3195-214Low risk endangerment, THC marker, on map, still in use, maintained, fenced.

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
Honor the Texas flag; I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible
Dan Rather in The View
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.