Historical Marker

Rosewood Cemetery

Historical marker location:
Gilmer, Texas
( 8 mi. W of Gilmer on SH 154, then one block S on Church Rd.)
Marker installed: 1986
Marker size: 27" x 42"

When the Marshall and East Texas Railroad was built through this area in 1907, the town of Rosewood was organized, replacing the earlier communities of Double Springs and Essex.

Denny Dell McDonald, four-year-old son of J. P. and Zula A. McDonald, died February 16, 1907, and was buried in the nearby Hopewell Cemetery. Wishing to be closer to their son's grave, the McDonalds donated property for a Rosewood Community Cemetery, and the child was reinterred here a few months later.

The cemetery was maintained in early years by members of the community, who often took turns digging graves. The plot was originally surrounded by barbed wire, which was replaced in the 1950s by a chain link fence.

A variety of grave markers can be found here, including large granite stones, Woodmen of the World monuments, and an intricately carved angel on the grave of Clara McKinney (1909-1921). There are also monuments for local veterans, including one who was lost at sea during World War II in 1943.

A cemetery association, formed in 1977, maintains the graveyard and hosts an annual homecoming and memorial service

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.
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
Texas random facts
Upshur County, located in northeastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the prehistoric times. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, who roamed the land and established settlements along the Sabine River. The first European explorers arrived in the 18th century, with the Spanish laying claim to the region but exerting little influence. It wasn't until the early 19th century that Anglo-American settlers began to arrive.

The county was officially organized in 1846, and it was named after Abel P. Upshur, a former United States Secretary of State. During the mid-19th century, the discovery of iron ore deposits in the county brought economic development and a boom in population. The industry fueled the growth of several towns, including Ore City and Big Sandy.

The Civil War had a significant impact on Upshur County, as it saw both Union and Confederate sympathizers in the area, leading to conflicts and divisions among the residents. After the war, the county slowly recovered and experienced growth with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The establishment of the East Texas oil industry in the early 20th century further boosted the county's economy.

Today, Upshur County continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and oil production. The area also offers numerous outdoor recreational activities, such as fishing, camping, and hiking in the beautiful natural surroundings. With a rich history and a vibrant present, Upshur County remains a significant part of Texas's cultural and economic landscape.

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

  • 1846 - Upshur County created and organized by the Texas legislature
  • 1848 - First county elections held
  • 1877 - Construction of the first courthouse
  • 1880 - The city of Gilmer becomes the county seat
  • 1890 - Population reaches 11,206
  • 1900 - First public high school established in Gilmer
  • 1930 - Discovery of oil leads to an economic boom
  • 1940 - Population peaks at 24,185
  • 1967 - Completion of Lake Gilmer, a reservoir for water supply and recreation
  • 2009 - Historic Upshur Museum dedicated in Gilmer