Zion Lutheran Cemetery
Historical marker location:This area of North Harris County was settled by Germans in the 1850s and was first known as Stuebner. Adolph Stuebner was the Postmaster from 1885 until mail service was transferred to Hufsmith in 1911. The International & Great Northern Railroad founded the town of Hufsmith in 1902 on property conveyed by the Bogs, King and Silas families, and it was named after company executive Frank Hufsmith (1853-1927). A post office was established upon the arrival of the railroad; Henry L. Mueller was the first postmaster, and Fred C. Bogs served as postmaster 1912 to 1951. The three postmasters are buried in Zion Lutheran Cemetery.
The cemetery began as a family burial ground in 1873, upon the death of one-year-old Bertha Mueller, daughter of Juliane and Wilhelm Mueller. Additional Mueller and Stuebner family members were soon interred at the site, which was later known as Mueller-Stuebner Cemetery, Stuebner Cemetery, and Hufsmith Lutheran Cemetery.
In 1905, the Muellers and Stuebners and other Hufsmith area families joined together under the leadership of Pastor G.W. Fischer to form the Evangelical Lutheran Zion Church. Henry and Mary Mueller donated approximately three acres encompassing the already existing cemetery to trustees of the church in 1907.
Numerous grave markers in the cemetery reflect birth in Germany, and many of the marker inscriptions are written in German. Burials in the cemetery include those of veterans of the Civil War, World War I and World War II. Although Zion Lutheran Church outgrew its 1907 building and relocated to Tomball in 1959, the church continues to care for the cemetery.
Historic Texas Cemetery - 2006
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.
Texas will again lift it's head and stand among the nations. It ought to do, for Texans consumed with greatness
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.
Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.
Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.
With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.
Harris County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Harris County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.
1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.
1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.
1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.
19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.
20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.
1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.
Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.