Historical Marker

Fondren Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Fondren Cemetery Lane of US 180, via FM 113 and Authon Rd., Fondren, Texas
( From Weatherford, take US 180 west about 11.5 miles, turn north on FM 113 about 5.6 miles north. Turn east onto Authon-Bethesda Road about 2 miles east and head south on Fondren Cemetery Lane, about .25 mile to cemetery on west side of road.)
Marker installed: 1979
Marker size: 18" x 28"

In 1854 William B. Fondren (1811-1863) and his wife Susannah (1816-1888) settled along nearby Dry Creek and the military road from Fort Worth to Fort Belknap. This family graveyard was established in the John W. Williams Survey, adjacent to Fondren's land. Gen. Edward H. Tarrant, for whom Tarrant County was named, died at the Fondren home in 1858 and was buried here for a time. The first marked grave is that of Fondren's son-in-law William Youngblood whose headstone, like others in the cemetery, reads: "Killed by Indians, 1860". This pioneer burial ground served until 1937.

(1979)

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
Parker County, TX has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Comanche, before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 1850s, Texas became embroiled in conflicts with the Native American tribes, leading to the establishment of Fort Parker in what is now present-day Parker County. This fort served as protection for early settlers from Native American attacks.

In 1855, Parker County was officially established and named after Fort Parker. The county quickly grew as more settlers flocked to the region attracted by fertile land and an abundance of water sources. The advent of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century further spurred growth and development in the county.

Parker County played a significant role in the cattle industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The county's open prairies became an ideal location for cattle ranching, and the development of railroads allowed ranchers to transport their livestock to markets more efficiently. This led to prosperity and economic growth in the county, with many cattle ranches operating successfully.

Over the years, Parker County has seen its fair share of challenges and triumphs. It has weathered economic downturns, faced natural disasters like the devastating tornado outbreak in 1957, and experienced growth in population and urbanization. Today, Parker County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a rich history, welcoming residents, and picturesque landscapes that highlight its enduring legacy as an important part of Texas' past and present.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Parker County, Texas.

  • 1855: Parker County officially established on December 12.
  • 1856: Fort Worth becomes the county seat.
  • 1872: Weatherford becomes the county seat.
  • 1877: Santa Fe Railroad arrives in Weatherford.
  • 1885: The first oil well is drilled in the county.
  • 1919: Parker County experiences the deadliest tornado in Texas history, resulting in 114 fatalities.
  • 1956: The first major shopping center, Town & Country Shopping Center, opens in Weatherford.
  • 1974: Weatherford College is established.
  • 1993: Lake Weatherford Dam fails, causing significant flooding in the area.
  • 2010: Parker County celebrates its 155th anniversary.