Historical Marker

I.O.O.F. Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Caddo Mills vicinity, Texas
( 1 mile south of Caddo Mills on SH 66, then 1 mile west on FM 6)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) is a fraternal service organization with chapters in communities around the world. Caddo Mills Lodge No. 416, I.O.O.F., was organized for members in nearby Caddo Mills, a railroad stop on the Missouri, Kansas and Texas railroad. Burials already existed on this property in 1902, when J. S. Stidham, C. J. Howard and R. B. McAdams, trustees of Caddo Mills Lodge no. 416, purchased 4.55 acres of land for use as a cemetery. The oldest known burial is that of Nancy Gary, who died in 1893. Additional purchases over the years enlarged the graveyard, which now contains more than 2,000 burials. In 1925, the lodge turned over the care of the cemetery to the Caddo Mills Cemetery Association, although the I.O.O.F. name was retained. Their first memorial and homecoming service took place in 1937. In 1979, the Dugan-Clark Cemetery, located across Highway 6, became part of the I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Serving the communities of Caddo Mills and Josephine and the surrounding area, this burial ground is a chronicle of the history of the people who settled and worked here. Tombstones denote the service of military veterans from the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam. The I.O.O.F. Cemetery also continues as a reminder of the contributions of Caddo Mills Lodge No. 416, which merged with a neighboring lodge in 1925. (2001)

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 fraternal organizations
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Hunt County, Texas is located in the northeastern part of the state and has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Caddo Native American tribe, who resided in the region for centuries before European settlers arrived.

The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and proximity to the Trinity River. The county was officially established in 1846 and was named after Memucan Hunt, who played a significant role in the Republic of Texas. The county seat, Greenville, was named after Thomas J. Green, a prominent lawyer and politician.

In its early years, Hunt County thrived on agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The county's economy boomed with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, which facilitated transportation and boosted trade and commerce.

Over the years, Hunt County experienced growth and development, and the economy diversified. In the 20th century, industries such as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare emerged, contributing to the county's economic stability. The county also saw an increase in population, with Greenville becoming the largest city in the area.

Today, Hunt County is known for its vibrant community, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It continues to be a hub for agricultural production, while also offering residents and visitors a wide range of recreational activities, historical sites, and local attractions.

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

  • 1839 - Hunt County is established on April 11, named after Memucan Hunt Jr., the first Republic of Texas Secretary of the Navy.
  • 1846 - Bonham is selected as the county seat.
  • 1850 - Hunt County's population reaches 1,914.
  • 1858 - Greenville becomes the new county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Hunt County residents participate in the Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate military.
  • 1872 - The Texas and Pacific Railway arrives in Greenville, bringing economic growth to the area.
  • 1895 - A devastating fire destroys the Hunt County Courthouse in Greenville.
  • Early 1900s - Cotton and cottonseed oil continue as major industries in the county.
  • 1940s-1950s - Oil discoveries and production boom in Hunt County.
  • 1980s-present - Hunt County experiences continued economic growth, diversifying its industries and expanding its population.