Shiloh-McCutcheon Cemetery
The community of Shiloh dates from 1848, when both Nelson Morey and Josiah Talor established stores in this area. Shiloh spread along the banks of Brushy Creek near Wilbarger Crossing, which was later called Shiloh Crossing and Rogan Crossing. The community consisted of a school, a church, two stores and a few residents who lived along Brushy Creek.
Shiloh-McCutcheon Cemetery sits on a park of the original grant of 1852 acres issued to the heirs of William Gatlin because of his participation in the Texas Army during the revolution of 1835-1836. The first recorded burial is that of Josiah Kuykendall, who became ill with smallpox after a traveler spent the night at his home. His brother and neighbor, Mark Kuykendall, came to care for Josiah during his illness, but became ill himself. Both brothers died from the disease and were buried in the cemetery in 1853.
The property was not officially deeded as a cemetery until February 1890, when William Mccutcheon deeded land to three cemetery trustees, F.F. Farley, Green Randolf, and William Rogan. William Mccutcheon, his wife Elizabeth Jane, and six of their thirteen children are buried here. Through the years, the burial ground has also been known as Shiloh, Old Shiloh, or Mccutcheon Cemetery. Burials at the site include veterans of the Texas Revolution, Civil War, World War I and World War II. Due to the density of burials, interments are now restricted to the ashes of descendants of those already interred at the site.
Historic Texas Cemetery – 1999
Marker is property of the State of Texas
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 state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
The region was first settled by European pioneers in the mid-19th century. The establishment of Fort Tumlinson in 1839 provided protection to settlers, and the population grew steadily with the arrival of more immigrants in search of new opportunities. In 1848, the county was officially organized and named after Robert McAlpin Williamson, a judge and soldier in the Republic of Texas.
During the Civil War, Williamson County faced significant challenges. Many residents joined the Confederate Army, and the county became a hotbed of conflict due to its location on the frontier between Union and Confederate territories. After the war, the area was able to rebuild and experienced a period of economic growth, driven by agriculture, cattle ranching, and the emergence of small towns and rural communities.
In the 20th century, Williamson County continued to develop and adapt to changing times. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s brought economic prosperity to the region, and the county experienced a boom in population and infrastructure. Today, Williamson County is a thriving part of the greater Austin metropolitan area, known for its strong economy, vibrant communities, and commitment to preserving its historical roots.
Williamson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Williamson County, Texas.
- 1804 - The area that is now Williamson County is settled by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, and Comanche.
- 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico.
- 1838 - The Texas legislature establishes Williamson County, named after Robert McAlpin Williamson, a leader in the fight for Texas independence.
- 1848 - The Mexican-American War ends and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed, officially establishing the Rio Grande as the boundary between Texas and Mexico.
- 1850 - The population of the county reaches 1,027.
- 1876 - The Texas State Capitol building is completed in Austin, which becomes the seat of government for Williamson County.
- 1881 - The International-Great Northern Railroad reaches Georgetown, bringing economic growth and development to the county.
- 1907 - The county courthouse, located in Georgetown, is completed.
- 1930s - The Great Depression hits Williamson County, causing a decline in the local economy.
- 1950s - The county experiences a period of growth and prosperity, with the population increasing significantly.
- 1990s - Development and suburbanization accelerate in Williamson County, with the county becoming one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States.