Joseph F. Johnston Reunion Grounds
Historical marker location:(4 mi. west) (Camp No. 94, United Confederate Veterans) Established 1889, in era when Texas looked to Civil War veterans for state leadership. One of numerous parks on river banks or other favored sites that drew large, popular annual encampments. Statesmen came to make speeches. There were orations by old soldiers; memorial programs, reviews, concerts.
In 1892 the camp purchased this 70-acre tract; sold lots to shareholders; named streets for Lee, Jackson, other heroes. During week of full moon each August, members came to encampments; set up housekeeping in tents, shacks or brush arbors; entertained, feasting on fried chicken, barbecue, Brunswick stew, sweet potato pie, watermelons. Special trains were run for years from Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston. In peak years 5,000 people assembled here. Until 1940, the dawn and dusk salutes shot by Old Valverde, Civil War cannon, were heard far into neighboring counties.
Besides giving honors to Confederate veterans, the encampments were occasions for family reunions. After the Mexia oil boom began in 1920, Col. A. E. Humphreys, a leader in petroleum development, built club facilities and promoted use of the park.
The reunion grounds still are dedicated to the memory of the late Confederate veterans. (1965) This marker was relocated here to the actual site of the Confederate Reunion Grounds by the Limestone County Historical Commission, 2003
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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.
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
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.
Limestone County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey 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