Historical Marker

Ochiltree Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Perryton, Texas
( SH 70, 9 mi. S of Perryton)
Marker installed: 1997
Marker size: 18" x 28"

In 1902, Jim McLarty and J. V. Stump fenced off 90 acres for a cemetery in the town of Ochiltree. Soon afterwards, Jim was thrown from his horse and killed, and at age 21 became the first person buried in the cemetery. In 1927 the county acquired the deed from Mr. J. M. Blasingame; in 1930 a cemetery association was formed. During the Depression of the 1930s an entry gate was built with help from the Works Progress Administration. Veterans of the Civil War and Spanish American wars, as well as World Wars I and II and the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam, are among the citizens buried here. (1997)

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.

gravesites
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Ochiltree County, located in the Texas Panhandle, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Apache and Comanche tribes, who relied on hunting, gathering, and farming for sustenance.

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.

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