Tanner Cemetery
Historical marker location:Thomas and Charlotte Guthrie Tanner moved to Mexican Texas in 1827 or 1828. They purchased six hundred acres on McGraw Creek from J. R. Williams for six hundred dollars in 1849.
When Thomas Tanner died in 1862, he was buried on a hill overlooking the property where he and Charlotte reared twelve children. Though several unmarked graves cannot be dated, Thomas Tanner's was probably the first burial in the Tanner Cemetery. The site soon became a community burial ground. In 1872 the Reverend Marcus Miller was buried on this site; he was followed in 1875 by Charlotte Guthrie Tanner. Other 19th and early 20th century burials include those of J. C. Miller, who died in 1890, Bettie Tanner, whose grave is dated 1897, and Lucinda Abbott, who died in 1909.
In 1944 and 1972, neighbors deeded adjoining acreage to cemetery trustees. Veterans buried in the cemetery include Thomas Tanner, who served in the army of the Republic of Texas in 1837, and his sons Nathan T. and James L. Tanner who, along with four of their five brothers, served in the Confederate Army. Several World War I and World War II veterans are interred here. Other burials of interest include several local ministers and county officials.
More than fifty family names grace the headstones of Tanner Cemetery. Cared for by an association of settlers' descendants, the Tanner Cemetery remains a chronicle of the pioneers of Newton County. (1998)
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.
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.
Newton County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.