Lilly Island Cemetery
Historical marker location:This burial ground served residents of several communities that formed in this area beginning in the late 19th century. Former slaves resided in these settlements; some came to Texas from Savannah, Goergia with plantiation owner Daniel Hamilton. When Hamilton passed away, his daughter Margaret, with husband John S. Havis, began to manage the plantation. They donated property for church purposes after two former slaves, Cal Hamilton and Delila Scott, requested land on which to conduct worship services. By the late 1880s, members of Lilly Eylan (Island) Missionary Baptist Church met here to worship. In 1903, the congregation relocated to a settlement between Barnes and Camden which took the same name as the church. The original church site became known as Lilly Island Cemetery.
The burial ground served residents of Barnes, Camden and Lilly Island. Many settlers were formers slaves and most farmed. Many of the freed slaves also worked for W.T. Carter and Brother Lumber Company, which provided boarding and houses, schools, medical services, a company store and a post office for its employees. The company was the area's main employer and thrived until the end of World War II, when many African American workers migrated to urban areas, leading to the decline of this area's communities.
The earliest burial here, of Morris W. Washington, an infant, dates to 1884. Other interments include verterans of foreign conflicts dating to World War I. Today, the Lilly Island Cemetery Assocaition cares for the cemetery, which continues to serve the area and remains as a testament to the former slaves and other residents of the Barnes, Camden and Lilly Island Communities. Historic Texas Cemetery-2006
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.
I love Texas because Texas is futuroland.
During the 19th century, the county witnessed significant developments, including the arrival of railroads in the late 1800s, which led to economic growth and an influx of settlers. Timber became the county's most important resource, and the lumber industry boomed, fueled by abundant pine forests. Sawmills and logging camps thrived, shaping the county's economy for many years.
The county's history also includes periods of strife. During the Civil War, Polk County experienced its fair share of conflict, with many residents joining the Confederate army. Additionally, the county suffered from occasional raids by Native American tribes, seeking to regain their land and resist encroachment.
In the 20th century, Polk County continued to progress, with further advancements in transportation and industry. The construction of dams on the Trinity River provided hydroelectric power and created recreational opportunities with the formation of Lake Livingston. Agriculture also played a significant role, particularly in the production of livestock and crops such as cotton.
Today, Polk County is a mix of rural communities and growing suburban areas. Its proximity to Houston has attracted residents looking for a quieter way of life while still having access to urban amenities. The county remains influenced by its past, with reminders of its rich history visible in the form of historic sites, museums, and landmarks that showcase the diverse and fascinating story of Polk County.
Polk County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Polk County, Texas.
- 1846 - Polk County, Texas is established.
- Mid-1800s - Early settlers arrive, primarily farmers and ranchers.
- Late 1800s - Logging and lumber industry becomes prominent.
- 1881 - Trinity and Sabine Valley Railway reaches the county, boosting trade and transportation.
- Early 1900s - Oil and gas exploration begins in the county.
- 1930s-1940s - The Great Depression and World War II bring economic challenges.
- 1957 - Lake Livingston is completed, becoming a popular recreational area.
- 1980s - Tourism and retirement industries grow in the county.
- 2000s - Population and economic growth continue.
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