Nelson Henry Rice Cemetery
Historical marker location:Nelson Henry Rice and Sarah Ann Stanley married in September 1841 in Alabama. They had 11 children. John Henry Nelson, Mary Ann Elizabeth, and an unnamed son and daughter all died in Alabama. Cicero Napoleon Wesley, Jerymiah Josephus, Samuel Adolphus, Thomas Jefferson and Margerette Rivers Rice moved to Texas with their parents in 1854. The family settled first in Nacogdoches County, then moved to Newton County. During this time two more children, Emery Josephine and Frank Patrick, were born. The family migrated to this area in 1865 and purchased about one thousand acres on which to establish a family farm and homestead.
According to oral history, Nelson Henry Rice and the Reverend Frank Wilson were walking the Rice property when Nelson Henry Rice placed a stake in the ground on this site and declared that this was where he wanted to be buried. The first burial on the Rice family burial ground was that of a daughter-in-law, Margaret Leona McMahon Rice, who died in March 1870. Nelson Henry Rice deeded the site for a cemetery in September of that year. He also deeded an acre of land for Wilson Chapel about a mile from the Rice home and conveyed plots of land to his children. The area became known as Rice community.
Nelson Henry Rice died in 1891. Sarah Ann Stanley Rice died in 1889 while visiting their son, Thomas Jefferson, in Milam County and was interred there. Several veterans of the Civil War, World War I and World War II are interred here. The burial ground serves Rice family descendants and other community members. It was enlarged in the 1960s and in the early 21st century held 142 graves. (2000)
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.
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.