General Walter Washington Williams
Historical marker location:Reputed to have been last surviving soldier of the Civil War (1861-1865). Born in Ittawamba County, Miss., Williams (Nov. 14, 1842 - Dec. 19, 1959) during the war was a forage master for the celebrated Hood's Texas Brigade. Soon after the war he moved to Texas and farmed near here. He was twice married and had a large family, with the descendants numbering over 200 when he died.
He had lived very quietly until in extreme old age he gained fame as one of a very few remaining veterans. After the nation lost all other men who had fought in the Civil War, he was given honorary rank of General by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. When Gen. Williams died in Houston at home of a daughter, President Eisenhower proclaimed a period of national mourning.
Williams rests here in Mount Pleasant Cemetery among families who migrated to Texas and braved the dangers of the frontier for years before he came. This is one of the oldest public burial grounds in Robertson County, situated within boundaries of colony planted north of El Camo Real by the pioneer Sterling C. Robertson, from Tennessee. The Robertson colony was founded in the 1820s and was a major civilizing influence in East Texas
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
In the early 1870s, ranchers began to settle in what is now Roberts County. The region's vast grasslands provided ample grazing opportunities for cattle, attracting ranchers from across Texas. The county was officially established in 1876, named after John S. Roberts, a significant figure in the movement for Texas statehood.
Throughout the late 19th century, cattle ranching dominated the local economy, and the population grew steadily. In the 1880s, the establishment of railroads in the region further facilitated the increase in trade and transportation of cattle, allowing for better access to markets outside the county. This growth continued into the 20th century, with the development of better irrigation techniques and the expansion of farming activities.
However, like many rural areas, Roberts County faced challenges during the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s devastated agricultural practices in the region, causing massive crop failures and forcing many residents to abandon their farms. The federal government's New Deal programs aimed to provide relief and recovery for farmers in the area, leading to the implementation of soil conservation measures and the construction of dams and reservoirs.
Since then, Roberts County has experienced periods of economic growth and decline. Today, the county's economy is still primarily based on agriculture, with cattle ranching, farming, and wind energy production being major industries. The county's rich history and dynamic present make it an interesting and important part of Texas' heritage.
Roberts County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Roberts County, Texas.
- 1876: Roberts County is officially established by the Texas legislature.
- Late 1870s: Buffalo hunters begin to populate the area.
- 1882: The first post office, "Roberts", is established.
- 1890: The county population is recorded at 565 residents.
- Early 1900s: Farmers and ranchers settle in the area, establishing the agricultural economy.
- 1933: The Dust Bowl hits Roberts County, causing severe soil erosion and economic hardships.
- 1950s: Oil and gas exploration begins, leading to increased economic activity in the county.
- 1980: The county reaches its peak population of around 1,400 residents.
- 1990s: Population decline begins as job opportunities decrease.
- Present: Roberts County continues to be a rural community with a focus on agriculture and energy industries.