Historical Marker

Chapel Hill Cemetery

Historical marker location:
SH 21, San Augustine, Texas
( from San Augustine, 5 mi. southeast on SH 21, cemetery is on south side on hill across from CR 141)
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The first recorded burial here is for Able Allison Lewis, a veteran of the American Revolution, in 1838. Oral tradition identifies his widow, Patsey Lewis, as giving land along El Camino Real for a public graveyard after his death. She and several of her family members are buried in the cemetery. These and other burials of the 1830s and 1840s are oriented north-south, several marked with slabs of hewn native rock. Other early burials include Dr. Samuel Thompson and his wife, Precious Wofford Thompson; and Sumner Bacon, an ordained Cumberland Presbyterian Minister who served as chaplain and courier for Sam Houston during the Texas Revolution. Veterans of conflicts dating to the American Revolution are interred here, with several having fought in the Texas Revolution and the Indian Wars of the 1830s. Gravestone materials include native stone, marble, granite and cement. Familiar names here include Fussell, Johnson, Layfield, Noble, Rhodes, Smith and Williams.

In 1912, the cemetery expanded to the west through land bought from B. B. Fussell. Chapel Hill Methodist Episcopal Church, South, was located on the property and served the community for many years. The entire community helped with donations, materials and labor to build a new church building in 1937. Chapel Hill continued to prosper as a rural community with cotton as the main crop until World War II, when most residents left for combat or war industries such as the shipyards in Beaumont. The community cotton gin closed after the war, and the church discontinued services in the 1990s. The Chapel Hill Cemetery Association maintains the graveyard and church building. The cemetery remains active and continues to serve the area while also serving as a chronicle of community history.

Historic Texas Cemetery - 2010

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.

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San Augustine County, located in the eastern part of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapa and Caddo peoples. It wasn't until the 18th century that European settlers began to arrive, with the Spanish establishing a mission and presidio in the region.

In the early 19th century, San Augustine County became a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico. However, tensions soon arose as American settlers began to outnumber the Mexican population. This led to the Texas Revolution in 1836, and San Augustine County played an important role in the struggle for Texan independence. The town of San Augustine served as the headquarters of the Texas Revolutionary Army during the Battle of Nacogdoches.

After Texas gained its independence, San Augustine County became a part of the Republic of Texas. The area saw rapid growth and development during this time, with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. The county's economy was primarily based on agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The timber industry also played a significant role, as the county was rich in valuable timber resources.

In the 20th century, San Augustine County faced several challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the timber industry. However, the county has worked hard to preserve its rich history and promote tourism. Today, visitors can explore historic sites such as the Mission Dolores State Historic Site, which features the remains of an 18th-century Spanish mission, and the Augus Theater, a historic movie theater that has been restored to its former glory. San Augustine County remains a place where the past intertwines with the present, showcasing the resilience and rich heritage of East Texas.

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

  • 1717: San Augustine County is established as the first Spanish municipality in Texas.
  • 1824: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and San Augustine County becomes part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas.
  • 1836: Texas declares independence from Mexico, and San Augustine County becomes part of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1846: The Republic of Texas is annexed by the United States, and San Augustine County becomes part of the state of Texas.
  • 1896: The town of San Augustine is incorporated.
  • 1939: The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department establishes the Mission Dolores State Historic Site in San Augustine County.
  • 1980: The county courthouse in San Augustine is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1991: San Augustine County celebrates its 275th anniversary.