Historical Marker

Concord Cemetery

Historical marker location:
244 CR 4705, Troup, Texas
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

In 1845, people settled the eastern portion of Texas because of inexpensive land and available water. In 1847, Reverend Richard Martin, an early Concord settler, and Reverend W.P. Henry established the Trinity Presbytery in the area. Both Martin and Henry provided ministers on horseback to Mound Prairie near Palestine to below Crockett. Early settlers worshipped in a brush arbor on the banks of Clear Springs Creek which is now known as Camp Ground Creek. Settlers built a permanent church that also served as a school, but around 1870 the building was destroyed by fire. A new church was built one and one-half miles north on the present location adjacent to the Concord Cemetery. Samuel Johnston donated two acres to the board of school directors to build a public school.

in 1891 Wesley and Emma Martin donated acreage for the cemetery, but several graves had already existed. Additional land was deeded in 1933 by Taylor and Francis Martin and in 1967 by Elmer D. Martin. The oldest burials are located in the middle section and marked with tall vertical stones. The oldest documented grave is of William Moses who died in 1878. Many veterans who served in the Civil War, World War I and II, Korea and Vietnam are also buried in the cemetery. Notable veterans include Dr. Simeon Kee, medical corps in Galveston; Reverend Lewis Holcomb, Liken’s Texas Cavalry; and Emerson Draper, Company B, 1874th English BN. The cemetery provides a record of the area’s pioneer families and is still used by their descendants. Before the annual July meeting, it is a tradition to visit the cemetery onSaturday to make sure the graves are clean and in order, and to place flowers on the gravesites. Family members are dedicated to preserving and maintaining the cultural and historical traditions of the cemetery

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
Texas will again lift it's head and stand among the nations. It ought to do, for Texans consumed with greatness
Sam Houston in Letter to the thirteen Texas municipalities
Cherokee County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Kickapoo, and Cherokee. In the early 19th century, settlers from the United States began to arrive in the region, resulting in conflicts with the indigenous populations.

In 1837, the Texas Congress established Cherokee County, named after the Cherokee people, who had settled in the area. The county seat was initially located in the town of Rusk, which had grown as a result of the influx of settlers. Over the years, the county went through various changes, with the establishment of new towns and the growth of the local economy. Agriculture, particularly cotton and livestock farming, became the backbone of the county's economy.

During the Civil War, the county faced significant hardships as many men from Cherokee County enlisted in the Confederate Army. The economy suffered, and the county experienced both political and social unrest. However, following the war, the region gradually recovered, and new industries such as lumbering and oil exploration emerged.

In the 20th century, Cherokee County witnessed significant changes in its economy and demographics. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s brought an economic boom to the area, attracting new businesses and residents. Today, the county continues to thrive, with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county also pays tribute to its Native American heritage through various cultural and historical organizations.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cherokee County, Texas.

  • 1846: Cherokee County is created and organized.
  • 1847: The town of Rusk is designated as the county seat.
  • 1850s: The area sees conflicts between the Cherokee and local settlers.
  • 1861-1865: Cherokee County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.
  • 1872: The International-Great Northern Railroad is built through Rusk, boosting the local economy.
  • 1900: The discovery of the large Berry gypsum deposit leads to the establishment of the Frankston Gypsum Company.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression causes significant economic challenges for Cherokee County.
  • 1942: Camp Fannin, a World War II army training camp, is established in Cherokee County.
  • 1982: Lake Palestine is completed, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • Present: Cherokee County continues to be a vibrant community with a mix of agricultural, industrial, and recreational activities.