Moss Ragsdale Cemetery
The cemetery at this site was first used as a burial ground in the 1850s, but the land was not formally set aside for this purpose until a 1902 warranty deed noted “one acre of land . . . to be used exclusively as a burying ground and for no other purpose.” The cemetery is named for Matthew Moss, on whose property it was established, and Moss’ son-in-law, James Campbell Ragsdale, who was the first person interred at the site. All of the marked burials that remain at the cemetery are members of Matthew Moss’ extended family.
Matthew Moss was born in Virginia in 1776 and served in the War of 1812 before moving to Arkansas, where he operated a steamboat on the Red River. He brought his family to Milam County ca. 1845. Moss died in 1858 and is presumed to be buried at this site. James C. Ragsdale settled in Fayette County ca. 1832, married Rebecca Moss, and served in the war for Texas Independence. Ragsdale died while on a business trip in Milam County, and was buried on his father-in-law’s property. The last known burial, in 1916, was that of Elizabeth Murry Ragsdale, wife of Matthew Moss Ragsdale.
The cemetery is located near the former townsite of San Andres. San Andres was laid out in the early 1850s and a post office operated at the site from 1852 until 1877. David Green Davis, the first postmaster of San Andres, was buried here in 1871. Confederate veterans known to be buried at the site include David Green Davis, L.E.S. Williams, John Matthew Davis and Matthew Moss Ragsdale. Today, Moss Ragsdale Cemetery serves as a reminder of the many pioneer families who worked to settle Milam County
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 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.
In 1825, the Mexican government issued land grants in the region, attracting a wave of American immigrants to the area. In 1834, the Mexican government designated Milam County as a separate municipality, and it was named after Benjamin Rush Milam, a prominent Texas revolutionary. After the Texas Revolution in 1836, the region experienced continuous growth and development.
During the mid-19th century, agriculture became the primary industry in Milam County, with cotton being the dominant crop. Many plantations were established, relying on slave labor until the abolition of slavery in 1865. The county also saw the establishment of several small towns, including Cameron, Rockdale, and Buckholts, which served as centers of trade and commerce.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the arrival of the railroad played a significant role in the county's development. The expansion of rail lines allowed for easier transportation of goods and people, boosting the local economy. The county experienced periods of prosperity and setbacks, including the Great Depression, but managed to rebound and adapt to changing economic conditions.
Today, Milam County remains an agricultural hub, known for its production of cotton, corn, and livestock. It is also home to scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and a vibrant community that values its history and heritage. The county continues to evolve, embracing new opportunities while preserving its cultural roots.
Milam County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Milam County, Texas.
- 1824 - Milam County is part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas
- 1837 - The Republic of Texas establishes Milam County as a separate entity
- 1846 - Milam County is officially part of the state of Texas after the Texas Annexation
- 1860s - Milam County experiences a surge in population and economic growth due to the railroad expansion
- 1874 - Cameron is selected as the county seat of Milam County
- 1940s-1950s - Milam County becomes an important hub for oil and gas production
- 1960s-1970s - Milam County faces economic decline due to the decrease in oil and gas production
- 1990s - Milam County experiences some economic revitalization through tourism and the establishment of new industries