Historical Marker

Brown Family Cemetery

Historical marker location:
SH 14, about 1.5 mi. N of Kosse, Kosse, Texas
( 1.5 mile N of Kosse on SH 14)
Marker installed: 1993
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The Brown Family Cemetery traces its origin to the settlement of North Carolina native Ervin Brown (1801-1875) and his wife Matilda (1807-1871) in Washington County, Texas, in 1846. Ervin and Matilda moved their family to a 1600-acre farm in Limestone County near the community of Eutaw in 1857. Ervin was a charter member of the Eutaw Masonic Lodge in 1859. Ervin and Matilda are both buried in this cemetery. Their son, Thomas Jefferson (T. J.), served as a Confederate captain in the Civil War and later as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas from 1911 to 1915.

The earliest documented burial here was that of Mary Ann Brown, who died on April 26, 1865. She was the wife of Ervin's son James Petty (J. P.) Brown. A captain in the Confederate Army during the Civil War, J. P. was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1879. J. P. and Mary's son Gibson A. Brown became a prominent figure in Texas and Oklahoma. In 1896 he successfully argued for legislation to protect property owners affected by the U.S. Supreme Court decision marking the South Fork of the Red River the official boundary between the two states. Neither T. J. Brown nor Gibson Brown are buried here, however. The cemetery remains in use by Brown descendants.

1993

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 local law enforcement officer
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.
Texas random facts
Limestone County, Texas, is located in the central part of the state and has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tawakoni and the Kickapoo. In the early 1830s, settlers from the United States began to arrive in the area, drawn by the fertile land and abundance of natural resources.

In 1833, Limestone County was officially established and named after a large limestone formation found in the region. The county quickly became an important agricultural center, with settlers growing cotton, corn, and wheat. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy and led to the growth of several towns, including Mexia and Groesbeck.

Limestone County experienced its share of hardships throughout its history. During the Civil War, the county faced economic challenges as many men left to fight in the conflict. Reconstruction brought further difficulties, with tensions rising between white settlers and newly freed African Americans. However, the county rebounded from these challenges, and by the late 19th century, Limestone County was known for its thriving agricultural industry and successful businesses.

Today, Limestone County continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture playing a significant role in the local economy. The county is also home to several historical sites, including Fort Parker State Park, which preserves the history of the Fort Parker settlement and the abduction of Cynthia Ann Parker by Native Americans. Limestone County's rich history and natural beauty make it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Limestone County, Texas.

  • 1833 - Limestone County is established as part of Mexican Texas
  • 1836 - Texas becomes independent from Mexico
  • 1846 - Limestone County is formally organized
  • 1860s - County experiences growth due to the expansion of the railroad network
  • 1873 - Groesbeck is chosen as the county seat
  • 1880s - Cotton and corn become major crops in the county
  • 1903 - First oil well is drilled in Limestone County
  • 1930s - County suffers from the effects of the Great Depression
  • 1940s - World War II brings economic recovery and increased population
  • 1950s - Local agricultural sector declines, but the oil industry continues to thrive
  • 1970s - County experiences economic growth with the opening of lignite coal mines
  • 1980s - Lignite coal industry declines, impacting the local economy
  • 2000s - County focuses on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism