Historical Marker

Mt. Antioch Cemetery

Historical marker location:
FM 339, 3 mi. S of Mount Calm, Mount Calm, Texas
( 3 mile South of Mt. Calm Via FM 339)
Marker installed: 1985
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1854, Ezekiel J. Billington came to this area of Texas from Kentucky with his wife, Kitty Ann, and their three children. Billington organized a Baptist church the following year and named it Mt. Antioch. The six charter members of the Mt. Antioch Baptist Church were Ezekiel and Kitty Ann Billington, Nancy Billington, Houghton Hughes, Medina Hughes, and M. J. Billington.

The nearby spring was a favorite camping spot for travelers in the area. As early as 1846, this site was used for the burial of those who died while passing through, and the graves of these persons remain unmarked. The first marked grave in what became the Mt. Antioch Cemetery was that of George Kimmel (d. 1860), the infant son of early settler James Kimmel.

Between 1860 and 1875 the community that developed around the Mt. Antioch Baptist Church and cemetery grew and prospered. About 1874, however, members of the church began moving to the town of Mt. Calm (2 mi. N), where they organized a new congregation. The cemetery continues to be used and maintained by the local residents and descendants of the early settlers.

A good example of a pioneer graveyard, Mt. Antioch Cemetery stands as a reminder of the early heritage of this part of Limestone County.

1985

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 Baptist denomination churches
The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
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