Grassland Cemetery
To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.
The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.
A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.
The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
The first European Americans to arrive in the area were primarily cattle ranchers and farmers. In 1876, the Texas legislature established Lynn County, which was named in honor of Judge John W. Lynn, who served as secretary of state during the Republic of Texas era. The county was officially organized in 1903, with Tahoka as its county seat.
The early years of Lynn County were characterized by the development of agriculture and cattle ranching. The region's fertile soil and ample water supply allowed farmers to grow various crops, including cotton, corn, sorghum, and wheat. Cattle ranching also played a significant role in the county's economy, with many ranchers utilizing the open range to graze their herds.
Over time, Lynn County grew and prospered. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought new economic opportunities, attracting both workers and businesses to the area. Oil-related industries developed, and the county experienced a period of growth and prosperity.
Today, Lynn County continues to be known for its agriculture, oil production, and close-knit communities. The county's residents embrace their rich history while also adapting to modern advancements and industries. With its scenic landscapes, small-town charm, and thriving agricultural sector, Lynn County remains an important part of West Texas's heritage.
Lynn County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Lynn County, Texas.
- 1876: Lynn County is established and named after Judge William Lynn.
- 1880: The town of Tahoka is founded as the county seat.
- 1902: The Santa Fe Railroad extends its line to Tahoka, boosting the local economy.
- 1930s: Lynn County faces challenges due to the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression.
- 1940s: Oil and gas discoveries lead to economic growth and increased population.
- 1970s: Lynn County experiences an agricultural boom, with cotton becoming a major crop.
- 1990s: The Lynn County Courthouse is restored, preserving the county's historical architecture.
- 2010s: Lynn County continues to be an agricultural hub, with farming and ranching as the main industries.