Historical Marker

Alvarado Glenwood Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Glenwood Dr, Alvarado, Texas
( Glenwood Dr, NW side of town)
Marker installed: 2004
Marker size: HTC marker

Two early area families established cemeteries at this site in the 1870s. During that time, the Campbell and Sansom families purchased land in this vicinity. The first documented burial is that of seven-month-old Ula Sansom (d. 1876), who was buried in the Sansom family plot. The following year, Louisianna Campbell (1826-1877), was buried in the Campbell plot. Several more burials were made during the next two decades.

In 1881, the railroad came to Alvarado, bringing with it many new residents. With more families in the area and a growing need for additional cemetery space, many buried their loved ones in the vicinity of the Sansom and Campbell plots. In 1896, the local Knight of Pythias and I.O.O.F. lodges established burial grounds on land surrounding the two family plots.

During the Great Depression, the City of Alvarado took over care for the cemeteries, which were known collectively as Glenwood Cemetery. Additional land enlarged the graveyard, for which in 1970 a cemetery association formed to maintain and preserve the site. Today, the burial ground remains a link to early pioneers and the history of generations of Alvarado residents.

Historic Texas Cemetery - 2004

DURING THE GREAT DEPRESSION, THE CITY OF ALVARADO TOOK OVER CARE FOR THE CEMETERIES, WHICH WERE KNOWN COLLECTIVELY AS GLENWOOD CEMETERY. ADDITIONAL LAND ENLARGED THE GRAVEYARD, FOR WHICH IN 1970 A CEMETERY ASSOCIATION FORMED TO MAINTAIN AND PRESERVE THE SITE. TODAY, THE BURIAL GROUND REMAINS A LINK TO EARLY PIONEERS AND THE HISTORY OF GENERATIONS OF ALVARADO RESIDENTS.

HISTORIC TEXAS CEMETERY- 2004

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.

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Texas random facts
Johnson County, located in North Central Texas, has a rich history that stretches back to the early 19th century. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Comanche, who utilized the fertile land and nearby water sources for hunting and agriculture. In the early 1800s, European settlers began to migrate to the area, bringing with them new technologies and a desire to establish a community.

The establishment of Johnson County can be traced back to 1854 when it was officially organized and named after Middleton Tate Johnson, a Texas Ranger and a Confederate commander during the Civil War. The county quickly began to grow, attracting settlers from nearby areas due to its abundant natural resources and favorable climate for agriculture. Cotton and corn became the primary crops, and the county's economy thrived, aided by the construction of railroads in the late 1800s.

Throughout its history, Johnson County has faced both triumphs and challenges. In the late 1800s, the county was known for its fertile soil and large cotton plantations, which contributed to its economic prosperity. However, like many areas in the South, Johnson County also experienced the hardships of Reconstruction following the Civil War. Additionally, the destructive effects of the Great Depression in the 1930s had a significant impact on the local economy, causing widespread poverty and unemployment.

In recent decades, Johnson County has seen significant growth and development. With an expanding population and a diverse economy, the county has become a hub for industry, commerce, and residential communities. Today, it continues to embrace its rich cultural heritage while adapting to the changing needs of its residents. Johnson County's historical legacy serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of its people, allowing the county to thrive and face the future with confidence.

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

  • 1846: Johnson County is established as a county in the state of Texas.
  • 1861-1865: Johnson County sends soldiers to fight in the American Civil War.
  • 1867: The county experiences economic growth as the Chisholm Trail passes through, bringing cattle drives and trade.
  • 1879: The town of Cleburne is established as the county seat.
  • 1880s: The arrival of the railroad boosts the local economy and facilitates transportation.
  • 1893: The Johnson County Courthouse is constructed in Cleburne, becoming a local landmark.
  • 1920s: The county suffers from the Great Depression, causing economic hardships for its residents.
  • 1940s: Johnson County contributes to the war effort during World War II, with many residents serving in the military.
  • 1950s-1960s: The county experiences population growth and suburbanization.
  • 1990s: The opening of the Chisholm Trail Parkway provides improved transportation and connectivity.