Hillcrest Cemetery
After the community of Brooklyn was relocated and renamed Forney when the Texas and Pacific Railroad was built through here in 1873, its early burial ground was no longer convenient to the town. In 1878, a committee of civic leaders organized the Forney Graveyard Company and purchased a 5-acre tract of land. The earliest documented burials are those of Blanch Ivey and Isaac Sorey, both of whom died in 1879. The problem of irregular maintenance was first addressed in 1911, about the same time it became known as "Hill Crest Cemetery." A perpetual care endowment was established in 1976. Many veterans of U.S. and foreign wars are interred here, including more than 46 veterans of the Civil War. The cemetery continues to be a chronicle of Forney settlers. (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 has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
During its early years, Kaufman County experienced growth and development, with agriculture playing a prominent role in the local economy. Farming and ranching became essential industries for the county, with cotton and livestock production leading the way. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further fueled the county's growth, connecting it to major cities and facilitating trade.
In the early 20th century, Kaufman County began to modernize rapidly. The advent of the automobile allowed for better transportation and communication networks, linking the county's rural communities. The development of infrastructure, including roads and highways, further enhanced connectivity between towns. Schools, hospitals, and businesses also experienced significant advancements during this time, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents.
Today, Kaufman County continues to thrive as a suburban county with a growing population. It boasts a mix of agricultural, industrial, and residential areas, offering a blend of rural charm and urban amenities. The county's rich history is celebrated through local museums, historical sites, and community events, reminding residents and visitors alike of the importance of preserving and cherishing its past.
Kaufman County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kaufman County, Texas.
- 1848 - Kaufman County is established by the Texas legislature.
- 1852 - The first courthouse is built in the county seat of Kaufman.
- 1857 - The first newspaper, the Kaufman Herald, is established.
- 1861-1865 - Kaufman County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
- 1873 - Terrell is founded and becomes a major railroad hub.
- 1886 - The Texas State Railroad extends its line into Kaufman County.
- 1895 - The Kaufman County Courthouse is destroyed by fire and later rebuilt.
- 1936 - Lake Ray Hubbard is created by the construction of the Rockwall-Forney Dam.
- 1965 - Kaufman County celebrates its centennial.
- 2013 - Tragically, Kaufman County District Attorney Mike McLelland and his wife Cynthia are assassinated.