Historic Cemetery

City Cemetery Mineola

a.k.a. Mineola City

Mineola, Texas 75773
Location: City Cemetery, MineolaAKA Mineola Black CemeteryUSGS map, City Cem.Recorded: WOOD03—Parsons; (location in Co. Hist., Vol. 2, p. 80: “ … adjoins and is part of the Mineola City Cem. … on the west side … no estimate of unmarked graves … many headstones in 1970. … Located 0.6 mile south of the intersection of Hwy80 and Hwy60 in downtown Mineola, on the west side of Hwy69. No sign and no indication of cemetery entrance. … property doesn’t belong to the city .. owned by the Reeves family, lots deeded as needed, no upkeep other than family … many broken markers … ) Cemetery Index. [garden clubs maintained the “city” (white) part of the cemetery in 1970.] (Tx Funeral Serv. Com.) Contact at PO Box 301, Mineola, TX 75773THC site visit MB 1/10/04. Large sign, City Cemetery, on Belcher St., just W of intersection with South St., approx 0.2 mile W of Hwy 69. Long lane entrance to hilltop location. Some erosion on W side. Lane and cemetery area fenced, mostly chain link, distinctly separated from Mineola City Cem-white cem. One small footpath gateway in separating fence, near mid-point of older burial areas in both cems. Diversity of markers over time, and in aesthetics. Formal and informal, a few fieldstone markers. Many Cedar marker trees, shrubs. One Texas Landmark marker for Veasy family, influential educators in Texas. Marked graves date from late 1800s thru recent burials. Mowed grass, abundant floral and decorative grave materials, some stone and masonry sculptures. Paved internal access roadway. GPS 32.39.20.70685N –95.29.37.38963W.

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.

gravesites
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.
Texas random facts
Wood County, located in the eastern part of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, who utilized the fertile land for agriculture and hunting.

In the early 1800s, the region attracted settlers from the United States who were drawn to the lush forests and abundant resources. The first permanent European-American settlement was established in 1846, and it was named Quitman after John A. Quitman, a prominent politician of that time.

During the Civil War, Wood County played a significant role in supporting the Confederacy. Many residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, and the area became a center for military recruitment and training. After the war, the county suffered economically, but with the introduction of the railroad in the late 19th century, the economy began to recover.

Wood County's economy primarily relied on agriculture, with the growth of cotton, corn, and timber industries. The establishment of sawmills and the development of the timber industry brought prosperity to the area. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil and gas reserves further fueled the county's economic development.

Today, Wood County continues to be an important agricultural and industrial center in Texas. The county's history is evident in its charming small towns, historic sites, and natural beauty. The strong sense of community and appreciation for the region's heritage are still evident today, making Wood County a vibrant and inviting place to visit or live.

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

  • 1850: Wood County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1852: The first courthouse in Wood County is built in Quitman.
  • 1860: The population of Wood County reaches 4,867.
  • 1875: The railroad reaches Wood County, boosting economic growth.
  • 1895: The county seat is moved from Quitman to Mineola.
  • 1920: The population of Wood County peaks at 19,109.
  • 1930: The Great Depression hits Wood County, causing economic hardship.
  • 1958: Lake Holbrook is completed, providing a recreational area for residents.
  • 1970: Wood County's population decreases to 12,230.
  • 1983: Holly Lake Ranch, a gated residential community, is established in Wood County.
  • 2000: The population of Wood County surpasses 37,000.
  • 2019: Wood County experiences steady growth and continues to be a thriving community.