Savannah Cemetery
Historical marker location:This site began as the family burial ground for Sofia Smith Whatley and her descendants. A South Carolina native, Whatley moved from Alabama with her son, Miles Jefferson, shortly after her husband, Martin, died in 1875. She came to this area to join another son, James Darling, and his family. A third son, Francis Marion, later bought land in Marion County as well.
The burial ground began on the land of James Whatley, who also deeded property to the county for a public school. The oldest marked grave is that of a Poe family infant who died in 1884. For many years, the burial ground was known as the Whatley Cemetery, although over time it took on the name Savannah, after the second wife of Miles Whatley. An area church also bears her name.
Over the years, the burial ground became a community cemetery, although Whatley family members remain active in maintaining the site, which is a link to their heritage and to local history. Among the area residents buried here are veterans of military conflicts dating to the Civil War. An association oversees cemetery operations.
Historic Texas Cemetery - 2005
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.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
The early settlement in Marion County was primarily driven by the sawmill industry, as many settlers arrived to exploit the vast pine forests in the area. Lumber became a major source of economic growth, leading to the establishment of several sawmills and the development of a thriving logging community. However, the decline of the timber industry in the early 20th century had a significant impact on the county's economy.
During the Civil War, Marion County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others supporting the Union. The county saw several skirmishes between Confederate and Union forces, with the town of Jefferson acting as an important Confederate supply depot. After the war, many of the county's plantations were abandoned, and former slaves faced economic and social challenges.
In the 20th century, Marion County experienced a revival in its economy through the tourism industry. The historic town of Jefferson, with its well-preserved architecture and rich history, became a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience the charm of the Old South. Today, Marion County boasts a thriving tourism sector, attracting visitors with its historic sites, museums, festivals, and recreational activities in its beautiful natural surroundings.
Marion County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Marion County, Texas.
- 1837: Marion County is established by the Republic of Texas.
- 1841: Jefferson is chosen as the county seat.
- 1845: Texas becomes a state.
- 1861-1865: Marion County residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1867: Marion County votes against secession from the United States.
- 1873: Texas and Pacific Railway completes a railroad line through the county.
- 1905: A new courthouse is built in Jefferson.
- 1937: The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county.
- 1969: The Texas Historical Commission designates Jefferson as a National Historic Landmark.
- 1984: Jefferson is named the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas."