Historical Marker

Long Meadows Cemetery

Historical marker location:
6065 CR 3430, Lampasas, Texas
( Take Hwy 580 E. from Hwy. 183 N. Left on CR 3430. Cross Lucy Creek to Hal Harton's property at 6065 CR3430. Veer left after passing Harton property, and turn left through gate before reaching Groves Cemetery)
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 18" x 28"

PLEASANT C. COX, WHO PATENTED THIS LAND, FIRST VISITED THE AREA IN THE 1830s. HE AND HIS WIFE, MARTHA JANE (BYBEE), CAME TO TEXAS BY WAGON TRAIN FROM MISSOURI IN 1851, SETTLING HERE IN 1855. PLEASANT COX WAS ONE OF THE PETITIONERS TO CREATE LAMPASAS COUNTY IN 1856. MOST OF THE DOZENS OF BURIALS HERE ARE UNMARKED, WITH SOME PREDATING THE EARLIEST MARKED BURIAL OF JOSEPH COX (1867-1872). THE LAST BURIAL WAS FOR MARTHA JANE COX, WHO DIED IN 1912. AFTER THE FAMILY SOLD THE PROPERTY IN 1922, THE CEMETERY FELL INTO DISREPAIR. DESCENDANTS BEGAN TO PRESERVE AND RESTORE THE SITE IN THE 1980s. THE CEMETERY, WHICH FEATURES LIMESTONE MARKERS AND FIELDSTONES AND INTERIOR FENCING, REMAINS A VALUABLE RECORD OF PIONEER LIFE IN LAMPASAS COUNTY

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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Lampasas County, located in central Texas, has a rich history that predates the arrival of European settlers. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche. In the 1830s, as Anglo-American settlers began to move into Texas, conflicts with these tribes escalated.

In 1852, Lampasas County was officially established, named after the Lampasas River that runs through the area. The county quickly became a prominent agricultural region, with cotton being the primary crop. The arrival of the Texas and Land Company railroad in 1882 further stimulated the local economy, as it facilitated trade and transportation in the area.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lampasas County also experienced economic growth due to the discovery of mineral resources. Manganese and zinc mining industries played a significant role in the county's development. Additionally, the city of Lampasas became a popular health resort destination, thanks to the therapeutic value of the local natural springs.

Throughout the years, Lampasas County has faced its fair share of challenges. The region went through difficult times during the Great Depression, with the decline of the agricultural industry. However, the county managed to bounce back and diversify its economy, embracing tourism and other industries. Today, Lampasas County remains a vibrant community with a blend of historical charm and modern development.

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

  • 1854 - Lampasas County is founded and named after the Lampasas River.
  • 1872 - The town of Lampasas becomes the county seat.
  • 1882 - The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway is completed through the county.
  • 1885 - The first oil well in central Texas is drilled in Lampasas County.
  • 1922 - The Hancock Springs Hotel, a popular health resort, is built.
  • 1949 - The Fort Hood military reservation is established, impacting the county's economy.
  • 1960s - The construction of the Highland Lakes dams brings tourism and recreation to the area.
  • 1990s - The county experiences population growth and increased development.