Historical Marker

Duke Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Alvarado, Texas
( 2.2 mi E of Alvarado on CR 1807; 0.5 mi S on CR 206)
Marker installed: 1997
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Dr. John Duke (1827-1884), his wife Martha (1836-1888), and their family moved to Johnson County in 1854. They established a farm in the area later called the Willow Springs Community. When their ten-year-old daughter Zilla died in 1870, they buried her on the family farm. Zilla was soon joined by siblings Orson and Lucy. Emma Griffin, a relative's child, was buried beside the Duke children in 1878. Dr. Duke deeded the burial ground to the community in 1879; four more Duke children had died by 1882. Other Willow Springs residents interred here include ranchers and farmers, teachers, merchants, ministers, and soldiers. (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.

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
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.