Center Grove Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Mt. Pleasant, Texas
( About 7 mi E of Mt Pleasant via SH 49 to N FM 1993 then right on CR SE 39)
Marker installed: 1983
Marker size: 18" x 28"

This cemetery was originally called the Yancey Cemetery because the first parcel of land was donated by David Yancey, Sr., in the mid-1860s. An orphaned infant, who was a member of the group that traveled with Yancey from Tennessee to Texas, was the first to be buried here. Many of the graves, including the first, are marked with only a rough stone. Veterans of the Civil War and both World Wars have been buried here. The name of the cemetery was changed in 1900 because the graveyard was located in the same area as the Center Grove Church of Christ

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.

The University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is one of the largest universities in the United States and has produced many notable alumni, including several U.S. presidents.
Titus County, located in Northeast Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, such as the Caddo and Cherokee, before European explorers arrived. In the early 1800s, settlers began to establish settlements in the area, and by the mid-1800s, the region became known as Titus County.

In the early years, the county was predominantly agricultural, with cotton being the primary crop. The development of transportation infrastructure, such as railroads and roads, played a significant role in the county's growth and success. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to the growth of towns such as Mount Pleasant, the county seat.

During the Civil War, Titus County, like many areas in Texas, was deeply affected by the conflict. Many residents joined the Confederate army, and the county faced economic hardships as a result. After the war, the region slowly recovered, and the economy diversified to include industries such as timber, oil, and manufacturing.

In the 20th century, Titus County continued to grow and develop. The discovery of oil in the 1930s brought significant prosperity to the county, attracting new industries and boosting the local economy. Today, Titus County remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The county has also worked to preserve its historical heritage, with several historical sites and museums showcasing its rich past.

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

  • 1846 - Titus County is established as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1852 - The county seat is established in the town of Mount Pleasant.
  • Late 1800s - The county experiences significant growth due to the arrival of railroads.
  • 1900s - Agriculture becomes a major industry in Titus County, with cotton, corn, and livestock farming dominating the economy.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in the county.
  • Mid-1900s - Titus County experiences a period of industrial growth, attracting manufacturing companies to the area.
  • 1970s - The county's economy shifts towards services, government, and trade.
  • 1984 - Lake Bob Sandlin State Park is established, becoming a popular recreational area for residents and visitors.
  • 2000s - Titus County continues to grow, attracting new businesses and investments.