Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church and Cemetery
Historical marker location:
Local tradition and Baptist church records indicate that the Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church was organized in 1852 with the Rev. John Bean as first pastor. The first church building on this site is thought to have been a small log house. On August 15, 1853, Aurin Goodgame Horn donated 3 acres including the graveyard to the Zion Hill Baptist Church.
The oldest marked grave is that of Joseph Wood, who was born in 1792 in North Carolina and died in Jasper County on September 16, 1854.
The original church building was quickly replaced by a board-and-batten structure and in the 1880s, a large frame building. This still until 1967, when it was demolished and replaced by a modern brick edifice outside the cemetery's north fence.
Of over 1,186 graves in Zion Hill Cemetery, 36 are unmarked or unknown. Several were citizens of the Republic of Texas; 75 war veterans are interred on this site. The graves of 102 young children bear witness to the high infant mortality rate among pioneers. Another notable grave is that of the Rev. A. C. Sims (1845-1920), who was born in the Republic of Texas, served in the Confederate Army, and was a pastor of Zion Hill Baptist Church. (1998)
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.
Texas is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
Jasper County was officially established on February 1, 1836, just weeks before the independence of Texas from Mexico. The county was named after William Jasper, a hero from the American Revolutionary War. In the early days of the county, logging and farming were the primary economic activities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further contributed to the growth and development of Jasper County.
The county experienced significant changes during the 20th century. The discovery of oil in the East Texas Oil Field in the early 1930s brought an economic boom to Jasper County, leading to increased population and infrastructure development. However, the area also faced challenges, including racial tension and civil rights struggles during the mid-20th century.
Today, Jasper County continues to thrive, with a diverse economy including oil and gas, timber, agriculture, and tourism. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic Angelina National Forest and the serene waters of the Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Jasper, the county seat, serves as a hub for commerce and government activities. The history and heritage of Jasper County are celebrated through various cultural events and museums, ensuring that its past remains an integral part of its present and future.
Jasper County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Jasper County, Texas.
- 1835 - Jasper County is established on February 1st.
- 1846 - The county seat is moved from Bevilport to Jasper.
- 1861-1865 - Jasper County residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1881 - The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway is built through Jasper County.
- 1901 - The Spindletop oil strike near Beaumont triggers an oil boom in the area, benefiting Jasper County.
- 1950s-1970s - The construction of Sam Rayburn Reservoir boosts the county's economy and recreational opportunities.
- 1996 - Jasper County experiences racial tension and protests following the murder of James Byrd Jr.