Historical Marker

Warthan Cemetery

Historical marker location:
US 82, Garland Chapel Rd, Annona, Texas
( 2.5 mi. E of Annona on US 82 just East of Garland Chapel Rd)
Marker installed: 2005
Marker size: 16" x 24"

George Washington Warthan came to Texas from Tuscaloosa, Alabama with brothers Thomas I. And Robert J. in 1852. G.W. wed Amanda Johnson, and the couple settled in the Red River Valley in 1855. In 1861, he mustered into Company E of the 32nd Texas Cavalry and during his service saw action in more than 30 Civil War battles. Captured in 1864 and held as a prisoner of war until 1865, he returned to Texas at the age of 29, and through grants and land purchases he expanded his Red River County landholdings. Warthan's acquisitions included land in this area, north of the farming community of Garland. It included a cemetery used by area residents, with graves believed to predate the Republic of Texas. In 1881, he set aside what he dubbed Warthan Cemetery and encouraged his family to preserve the site. By the late 1960s, early grave indicators, including bois d' arc markers and loose stones, had disappeared. The cemetery land was formally deeded in 1951 and later enlarged. The earliest marked grave dates to 1881, and today the cemetery remains as a tie to generations of Warthans and other area residents. Historic Texas Cemetery - 2005

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
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Texas random facts
Red River County, Texas has a rich and varied history that dates back to before the arrival of European settlers. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Wichita, who thrived off the land's abundant natural resources. In the early 19th century, the region became an important center of trade and commerce due to its location along the Red River, serving as a crucial crossing point for settlers moving westward.

The county was officially established in 1835 and named after the iconic Red River that flows along its eastern border. During the Texas Revolution, Red River County played a significant role as a hub for communications and supply lines. The Battle of Jonesborough, fought here in 1837, marked an important victory for Texan forces and secured the area as a part of the Republic of Texas.

Throughout the 19th century, the county continued to grow and develop, with agriculture becoming a major industry. Cotton became the primary crop, and the county boasted numerous plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved labor. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought further economic prosperity to the area, leading to a boom in oil production.

In the modern era, Red River County has evolved into a primarily rural and agricultural community, with farming, ranching, and timber production being the main economic activities. The county also offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing and hunting, due to its picturesque landscapes and natural assets. Today, Red River County takes pride in its unique history and continues to honor its cultural heritage while embracing the opportunities and challenges of the present.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Red River County, Texas.

  • 1835 - Red River County established by the Republic of Texas
  • 1840 - Population of the county reaches around 1,500
  • 1841 - Clarksville becomes the county seat
  • 1845 - Texas becomes a state
  • 1861 - Start of the American Civil War
  • 1871 - Red River County Courthouse constructed
  • 1876 - Population of the county reaches around 10,000
  • 1890 - Introduction of railroad in the county
  • 1930s - Great Depression hits Red River County hard, causing economic hardships
  • 1960s - Construction of the Pat Mayse Lake reservoir
  • 2010 - Red River County's population stands at around 12,860