Historical Marker

Salem

Historical marker location:
Bleakwood, Texas
( 12 mi S of Bleakwood, via SH 87 South to FM 2829, then 4 mi. to Brice Farm (private property))
Marker installed: 1979
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Before Seth Swift (1789-1869) founded the settlement of Salem, he and his partner, Paul Gardner, operated a whaling business in Massachusetts. After Gardner's death in 1835, Swift, his wife Lydia, and five children immigrated to Texas. They brought household goods and material for a frame house up the Sabine River to this location on the Big Cow Creek. The road to Opelousas, Louisiana, over which cattle were driven to New Orleans, crossed here. Swift named the trading post for Salem, Massachusetts.

Swift owned a ferry which was a point of entry into Texas and continued to operate for 100 years. Riverboats unloaded lumber, cotton, and other goods. Although there were no churches, circuit riders came here. There was no schoolhouse, but Swift brought Martha Percival to instruct the children. Swift ran the post office that started here during the Republic of Texas. He was buried near his home in the pink marble casket he brought from Massachusetts.

In 1892 Cow Creek Tram Co. established a logging camp (2 mi. S) which became known as "Old Salem". Salem Post Office moved to the new location. Never incorporated, Salem disappeared after transportation improved and settlements moved inland

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.

settlements roads water topics ghost towns
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Newton County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapans and the Caddo people. The arrival of European settlers in the early 19th century led to conflicts between the Native Americans and the newcomers.

In 1836, Newton County was officially established and named after John Newton, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The county's geographical location, with its fertile land and proximity to major waterways, attracted many settlers, particularly from Southern states. The region's economy was largely based on agriculture, with cotton and timber being major industries.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the discovery of oil and gas brought prosperity to Newton County. The oil boom transformed the county, attracting numerous oil companies, creating jobs, and boosting the local economy. However, the boom eventually declined, leading to a shift back to agriculture and timber as the primary sources of income.

Throughout its history, Newton County has been shaped by both natural and man-made disasters. The county has been prone to hurricanes and floods, with devastating effects on the community. In recent years, efforts have been made to implement flood control measures and improve disaster preparedness.

Today, Newton County remains a rural area with a population that values its rich history and natural beauty. It continues to be a place of agriculture, timber, and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors with its scenic landscapes and wildlife. The county's history and resilience serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by its residents and the strength of the community.

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

  • 1846 - Newton County is established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1870s - The county experiences growth due to the expansion of the lumber industry.
  • 1904 - A devastating fire destroys a significant portion of the town of Newton.
  • 1907 - Bon Wier is established as a sawmill town.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county.
  • 1940 - The Toledo Bend Reservoir is constructed, resulting in the flooding of parts of Newton County.
  • 1960s - The construction of the Toledo Bend Dam leads to increased tourism and recreational activities in the county.
  • 1990s - Newton County experiences population growth due to its proximity to the Toledo Bend Reservoir.
  • 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county.