Historical Marker

San Saba Cemetery

Historical marker location:
.2 mi. north of of U.S. 190 on State Highway 16, San Saba, Texas
( .2 miles north of US 190 on State Highway 16, on west side of the highway)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 18" x 28"

SAN SABA CEMETERY, PREVIOUSLY THE ODD FELLOWS CEMETERY, IS LOCATED ON 17 ACRES OF LAND ABOUT 800 YARDS NORTH OF OLD TOWN SAN SABA. ON APRIL 18, 1883 THE SAN SABA CHAPTER OF THE INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS (IOOF) PURCHASED 10 ACRES OF THIS LAND FROM J.J. STOCKBRIDGE TO ESTABLISH A CEMETERY, WHICH THEY MAINTAINED FOR 45 YEARS. ON APRIL 3, 1929, THE NEWLY INCORPORATED SAN SABA CEMETERY ASSOCIATION PURCHASED THE CEMETERY FOR $1.00 AND AN ADDITIONAL 7 ACRES FROM MRS. MAY HOLMAN, ALSO FOR $1.00. IN 1935 BURIALS FROM SAN SABA’S EARLIEST CITY CEMETERY, NOW ROGAN FIELD, WERE REINTERRED HERE. THE CEMETERY REFLECTS SAN SABA’S EARLIEST TIMES AND IS A CONTINUING RECORD OF THE LIVES AND CULTURE OF ITS CHANGING PEOPLE

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
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Founded in 1856, San Saba County is located in central Texas and is named after the San Saba River that runs through it. The area has a rich and diverse history that dates back far before its official establishment. Native American tribes, such as the Caddo and Comanche, inhabited the land long before European settlers arrived. Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to explore the region in the 18th century.

During the Mexican Texas era, San Saba County was a part of the municipality of Colorado and later, the municipality of Bexar. It played a significant role in the fight for Texas' independence from Mexico, with notable figures like James Bowie and Sam Houston having connections to the area. After the Texas Revolution, the county became a part of the Republic of Texas and underwent various changes in its jurisdiction before being officially organized as San Saba County.

Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, played a crucial role in the early development of San Saba County. The county's fertile soil, along with the San Saba River, provided favorable conditions for farming. The expansion of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the local economy, as it allowed for the transportation of goods and facilitated trade.

Over the years, San Saba County has faced challenges such as droughts, economic fluctuations, and changes in agricultural practices. However, the community has persevered and adapted, diversifying its economy to include industries such as oil and gas, as well as tourism. Today, San Saba County's rich heritage, natural beauty, and friendly community make it a charming place to live, visit, and explore.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of San Saba County, Texas.

  • 1856 - San Saba County was officially established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1859 - Fort McKavett was established near Menardville, bringing increased protection to the area.
  • 1860s - The county faced conflicts with Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Apaches.
  • 1870s - The arrival of the railroad led to economic growth and the development of towns like San Saba.
  • 1882 - The County Courthouse was built, becoming a centerpiece of San Saba.
  • 1900s - Farming and ranching became the main economic activities in the county.
  • 1911 - The Women's Culture Club was founded, promoting education and cultural initiatives.
  • 1930s - San Saba County was severely affected by the Great Depression.
  • 1980s - The county experienced a decline in population due to economic changes.
  • 2000s - Efforts were made to revive the county's economy, focusing on tourism and agriculture.