Historic Cemetery

Bethlehem Lutheran Cemetery

10202 FM 1935, Brenham, Texas 77833
Location: Bethlehem Lutheran Church Cemetery AKA Bethlehem Cem #??#1S of Brazos River, on FM 1935, N of Hwy 390 Bethlehem Cemetery—TxGenWeb: Texas Landmark 301922 – 0961641 church “Bethlehem Lutheran Wm Penn.”-- Cem Recs of Washington Co (1974): “301927 – 961643 – adjacent to Bethlehem Ch, William Penn Com. Approx 200 burials, earliest about 1880s. Index.” Tombstone-TxDoT map.Recorded WASH01—Parsons. Cem Recs of Washington Co. (1974): Parsons. THC site visit MB 3/31/04. William Penn, Tx. Area. S of Brazos River, on FM 1935, N of Hwy 390. Church, school.Hill top location, dramatic vista to E. Arched entryway and gate, stone columns and complete chain link fencing. Adjacent large Lutheran church, halls, parsonage/rectory and school playground. Lutheran landscape configuration. Large and diverse formal markers over time, chronologically organized, some family plots. Curbing, slabs, large statuary, obelisks. One Cedar marker tree in central area. Area shows evidence of recent inclusion of annex areas to N and E, next to playground. Approx 1.95 acres. GPS 30.19.27.17485N –96.16.42.54475W Quad 3096-131 Low risk endangerment, associated church. maintained, still in use, on map. USGS 3096-131 Independence Near William Penn School Texas LandmarkTxDoT.

To address the problem of cemetery destruction and to record as many cemeteries as possible, the Texas Historical Commission offers the Historic Texas Cemetery designation.

The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed in 1998 to help protect historic cemeteries by recording cemetery boundaries in county deed records to alert present and future owners of land adjacent to the cemetery of its existence. Every county in Texas has at least one cemetery designated as a Historic Texas Cemetery through this program. The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.

A cemetery is eligible for designation if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy of recognition for its historical associations. The very nature of a cemetery being a landmark of a family’s or community’s presence is considered to validate the criteria of historical associations. Any individual, organization, or agency may submit a request for designation.

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Texas random facts
Washington County, Texas has a rich and diverse history that spans over 150 years. The county was established in 1836, the same year that Texas gained its independence from Mexico. It was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. The county's founding coincided with the establishment of the Republic of Texas, and it played a significant role in the state's early development.

In its early years, Washington County was primarily an agricultural community, with cotton being the main crop. Many German immigrants settled in the area and brought with them their farming expertise and traditions. These settlers played a crucial role in shaping the county's agricultural landscape and introducing a strong cultural influence that is still evident today.

During the Civil War, Washington County saw its fair share of conflict and upheaval. The county was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy while others opposed secession. The region experienced military occupation and witnessed battles and skirmishes, leaving a lasting impact on its residents.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Washington County transitioned from an agrarian economy to a more diversified one. With the arrival of the railroad, the county experienced a boost in commerce and industry. Businesses and services expanded, and the county's population grew as a result. Today, Washington County is known for its thriving agricultural industry, historical sites, and picturesque landscapes, attracting visitors from around the country.

Overall, Washington County, Texas has a storied past that reflects the broader history of the state. From its early origins as an agricultural community to its role in the Civil War and subsequent development, the county has played a significant part in shaping the growth and identity of Texas.

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

  • 1834 - Washington County is organized as the first county in the Republic of Texas
  • 1836 - The Battle of San Jacinto takes place, securing Texas independence
  • 1838 - Washington-on-the-Brazos becomes the first capital of the Republic of Texas
  • 1851 - Brenham is established as the county seat
  • 1861 - Texas secedes from the Union and joins the Confederate States of America
  • 1870 - The Houston and Texas Central Railroad reaches Brenham, boosting the local economy
  • 1930s - The Great Depression impacts the agricultural industry in Washington County
  • 1950 - Blue Bell Creameries is founded in Brenham
  • 1972 - Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is established
  • 1990s - Washington County experiences population growth and development