Ochiltree Cemetery
Graves: 4000 (1902 to present)
Size: 1482 ft x 2615 ft
To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.
The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.
A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.
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.
The arrival of European settlers in the 19th century dramatically changed the landscape of Ochiltree County. In 1876, the county was officially created and named after William Beck Ochiltree, a Texas congressman. The town of Perryton was established as the county seat, and quickly became the center of agriculture and trade in the region.
The early settlers faced numerous challenges, including harsh environmental conditions and conflicts with Native American tribes. However, the discovery of oil in the area in the early 20th century brought significant economic growth to Ochiltree County. Oil wells were drilled, leading to the establishment of oil companies and resulting in a boom in population and development.
Today, Ochiltree County continues to be primarily an agricultural community, with farming and ranching playing a vital role in the local economy. The county is also known for its oil and gas production, attracting both residents and businesses looking to take advantage of the industry. Despite its small population, Ochiltree County has a rich history that reflects the resilience and perseverance of its early settlers and their lasting impact on the region.
Ochiltree County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Ochiltree County, Texas.
- 1876 - Ochiltree County is officially founded as a result of the Texas Legislature creating it out of the Bexar District
- 1880 - The first post office is established in Ochiltree County
- 1882 - The first railroad line reaches Ochiltree County, boosting transportation and trade
- 1885 - Perryton becomes the county seat of Ochiltree County
- 1919 - The agricultural college at Perryton is established, fostering advancements in farming and ranching
- 1930s - Ochiltree County, like the rest of Texas, experiences the devastating effects of the Great Depression
- 1950s - The oil industry booms in Ochiltree County, leading to increased economic growth
- 1995 - The Ochiltree General Hospital is founded, providing improved healthcare services to the community
- Present - Ochiltree County continues to thrive as an agricultural and oil-producing region