Historical Marker

Little Flock Cemetery

Historical marker location:
San Augustine vicinity, Texas
( 6.3 miles south of San Augustine on US 96, then 7.8 miles south on FM 1751, then 0.4 mile east on CR 4330)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

By 1880, a small farming community had been established in this part of rural San Augustine County. Members of the Erwin, Crocker, Zeagler (Zeigler), Woods and Harvey families met first near Tiger Creek under a brush arbor to help organize a community church. About 1882, a one-room log church building was constructed on this site. Its small size led the congregation to name itself "Little Flock." In 1883, the family of six-year-old Carrie Bell Hawkins stopped for help at the home of Joseph N. and Lizzie Harvey Erwin. Carrie died while at the Erwin home, and the Erwins buried her on their property near the Little Flock church. In 1887, three Erwin family members were buried near the first grave site, and by 1900 there were 29 marked graves. In 1914, Joseph (1845-1931) and Lizzie (1854-1948) Erwin formally donated one acre of land for church, school and cemetery purposes. Additional acreage was purchased at that time and again in 1931. At the turn of the 21st century, there were more than 400 burials in the Little Flock Cemetery, including those of veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War Ii, Korea and Vietnam. At least five graves are unmarked. Charter members of the Little Flock Baptist Church, including George Washington Crocker (1840-1922), are buried here as are land donors Joseph and Lizzie Erwin. Little Flock Cemetery stands as a reminder of the pioneers who settled this part of Texas and of their contributions to local history. (2001)

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.