Historical Marker

Rochelle Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Rochelle vicinity, Texas
( From Rochelle, take County Road 424 east abut 1.6 miles; turn south on local gravel road. Continue .25 mile south to cemetery.)
Marker installed: 1986
Marker size: 27" x 42"

E.E. Willoughby (1853-1935), a cattleman from Tarrant County, moved to Rochelle (then about 1.5 mi. SW) in 1883. He acquired land here in 1886 along the Brady-San Saba Road. In 1889 he donated two acres near this site for the community's school and church building, moved here from its original 1886 site about one mile south. When Willoughby's 19-month-old son Ernest Eckie died in 1894, he buried the infant near the school. In 1896, Willoughby deeded one acre here as the Rochelle Cemetery. A new school was built here in 1899. The community and schoolhouse were moved in 1903 about 2 miles northwest to the new Fort Worth & Rio Grande Railroad. This cemetery continued to serve the new community, first named Crothers but soon renamed Rochelle. The tombstones here of the Rev. and Mrs. C.W. Jones indicate that she died in Crothers (1906) and he died in Rochelle (1910), though they both died at their home in the same town. Willoughby deeded another acre to this cemetery in 1910, but he was ultimately buried in Brady at Live Oak Cemetery. The rock fence here was built in 1935, and four more acres were purchased in 1943. The cemetery contains almost 500 graves, of which 105 are unmarked. An association founded in 1972 cares for the grounds. Texas Sesquicentennial 1836-1986

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.

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McCulloch County is located in central Texas and was named after Benjamin McCulloch, a prominent figure in the Texas Revolution and the Confederate Army. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Lipan Apache and Comanche before settlers arrived in the 1850s. In 1856, the county was officially established and Brady became the county seat.

During the Civil War, McCulloch County experienced its share of conflict as it was close to the western frontier. Many residents sympathized with the Confederacy, and Confederate troops were stationed in the area for defense. After the war, the county saw an influx of settlers from other parts of Texas and the United States. Agriculture, particularly farming and ranching, played a significant role in the county's economy during this time.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought several advancements to McCulloch County. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s spurred economic growth and allowed for easier transportation of goods. This led to the establishment of cotton gins, lumber mills, and other industries in the area. The county also saw the development of schools, churches, and other community institutions.

In the modern era, McCulloch County continues to thrive as a rural community with a strong agricultural presence. It is known for its scenic beauty, including Brady Lake and the surrounding Hill Country. The county also celebrates its history and culture through events such as the Heart of Texas Country Music Festival and the McCulloch County Stock Show. Today, McCulloch County preserves its heritage while embracing the opportunities of the 21st century.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of McCulloch County, Texas.

  • 1852 - McCulloch County is established.
  • 1856 - First settlers arrive in the area.
  • 1859 - Fort McKavett is built to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
  • 1873 - Brady becomes the county seat.
  • 1886 - San Saba and Northern Railway reaches Brady, boosting economic growth.
  • 1900 - Brady receives electric power and telephone services.
  • 1903 - St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church is established in Brady.
  • 1910 - The Brady Lake Reservoir is constructed.
  • 1913 - Brady National Bank, one of the first banks in the county, is founded.
  • 1928 - The Heart of Texas Fair and Rodeo begins in Brady.
  • 1936 - McCulloch County Airport is built.
  • 1984 - The Heart of Texas Historical Museum opens in Brady.
  • 1997 - Brady Creek Wind Farm, one of the largest wind farms in Texas, is built.