CORYELL COUNTY HISTORICAL MARKERS Contributed by: Joan Renfrow ******************************************************************************** USGENWEB ARCHIVES(tm) NOTICE All documents placed in the USGenWeb Archives remain the property of the contributors, who retain publication rights in accordance with US Copyright Laws and Regulations. In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the Internet, these documents may be used by anyone for their personal research. They may be used by non-commercial entities so long as all notices and submitter information is included. These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit. Any other use, including copying files to other sites, requires permission from the contributors PRIOR to uploading to the other sites. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. http://www.usgwarchives.net ******************************************************************************** CORYELL COUNTY HISTORICAL MARKERS The Texas Historical Commission http://www.thc.state.tx.us/index.html JOHN PANEY BERTRAND Marker # 381 Location: from Pormelia Take FM 183 S. abut 1 mi to Smith Cemetery City: Pormelia Marker Erected: 1966 Marker Text: John Raney Bertrand was born in Brazoria County, the son of French immigrants who came to Texas before the Texas Revolution. He was a partner in a mercantile business in Washington County for several years before leaving to join the Confederate Army in the Civil War. In 1869 he married Mary Frances Cayce, and moved to Coryell County in 1875, settling on 312 acres. He built a log cabin for his family of eight children, raised livestock and farmed the land. BETHEL HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 12335 Location: 5 miles west of Gatesville on Hwy. 84, then south on CR 136 and west at Hemmeline Cemetery on CR 127; 2 mi. W City: Gatesville vicinity Marker Erected: 2000 Marker Text: A number of German immigrants who came to Texas in the 1880s settled near Coryell City and west of Gatesville. They organized the German Bethel Baptist Church with eleven members and the Rev. Julius E. Sydow in 1886, meeting in a schoolhouse east of Coryell City. The Rev. Mr. Sydow was soon alternating services between Coryell City and Gatesville as the area's German Baptist population grew. By 1889 each group had its own Sunday school with officers and a church clerk. They separated in 1891, forming two distinct churches, and the Rev. Mr. Sydow continued to minister to the Gatesville congregation. They bought the land on this site from Ludwig Voss in December 1891 and erected a house of worship the following year. Church trustees acquired land for a cemetery near the Hemmeline schoolhouse, named for a local family. The burial ground adopted the same name. The earliest recorded burial is that of Gustav A. Schloeman, who died in 1895. A Baptist training union was established for young people that same year. The Women's Missionary Union was established in 1916. During World War I, the congregation pledged their loyalty to the United States and sold war bonds. During World War II, they made the transition from German to English language services, church records were kept entirely in English for the first time, and the church was renamed Bethel Heights Baptist Church. Membership diminished as young people moved to participate in the war effort. The 1892 church building was destroyed by fire in 1986, though the early records were saved. A modern structure was erected on this site. At the dawn of the 21st century, Bethel Heights Baptist Church continues with programs of worship and service. (2000) JOHN BAILEY CALLICOATTE Marker # 636 Location: Bee House Cemetery ,from Evant, take FM 183 SE about 7 mi to Spur 183, go west .1 mi to county & follow west about 1 mi City: Bee House Marker Erected: 1957 Grave Marker Only CANAAN BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 703 Location: From FM 929, take Coryell City Rd north about 2 mi City: Coryell City Road Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Only COPPERAS COVE STAGESTOP AND POST OFFICE Ref. # 79002928 Location: 1.6 miles SW of Copperas Cove off US 190 City: Copperas Cove vicinity Narrative: Located in central Texas, the Old Stagestop and Post Office was built on a simple plan with walls of limestone quarried in the vicinity of the site. The plan consisted two rooms, with the long axis of the building running north and south. Doorways to each room on the east and west provided for good cross ventilation during the hot month. At the ends of each room was located a fireplace. Overhead was a low attic, accessible only by ladder, with openings in the gables of the building. The stonework adds to the significance of the structure. Local limestone, roughly dressed, was laid in ashlar pattern to form walls, some nineteen inches thick. However, the lintels and sills of the openings were cut stone. Openings near the base of the walls on the east and west provided ventilation for the space under the floor, thus assuring a longer life for the floor structure. On the west side is a stone with the inscription "Finished in August,1878, Ogl (illegible). The openings were detailed in a style that was typical of the times; the window sashes were six over six lights. Doors consisted of four panels. The roof structure was framed with rough sawn wood lumber. Cedar shingles were nailed over this. The interior surfaces were plain finished and basically unadorned. Walls were plastered and floors and ceilings were finished with one-by-four tongue and groove boards. Fireplaces have cut limestone facings. Simple wooden mantles over the fireplace openings are supported by two vertical boards with sidles perpendicular to the wall. These supports are enhanced with a graceful curvature. At some unknown date a three room, frame addition was made to the building; however, this has since been removed. Also included as a part of the Stagestop and Post Office were several other elements. A cistern and settlement basin, which have been restored, are situated near the southwest corner of the building. Also to the southwest was a storm cellar which was spanned by a barrel vault was formed of rough slabs of limestone. Within this were banquettes for storage and seating. Stone steps provided access into the subterranean room. A smoke house also stood on the property near the house until destroyed in a storm in 1971. In 1950 the building was vacated. During this time it was vandalized and allowed to deteriorate. Windows and doors were heavily damaged. The Rays donated the property to the city of Copperas Cove in 1974. It was restored during the Bicentennial of America. All of the wooden parts of the building were replaced with new material which authentically replicated the original. In addition, the stonework was reappointed using Portland Cement Mortar. Today the structure is in excellent condition and is protected in its isolated setting by a chainlink fence. It now serves as a museum commemorating the pioneer history of the area. The Old Stagestop and Post Office is a fine example of the vernacular stone structures that dotted the nineteenth century Texas landscape. It is the only structure remaining from the original town of Copperas Cove, then known as The Cove. Having served numerous function strategic to the locale, beginning with its original as stage relay station and post office and including home and grocery, it continues to be a major landmark in its present condition as a museum. Evidently named for a copper spring in a cove of the nearby mountains, the town of Copperas Cove was not laid out until 1882, when the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railroad passed through the vicinity. Prior to this, however, Marsden Ogletree C1819-1896) had settled in the wilderness area. In 1878 Ogletree constructed the Old Stagestop and Post Office. At first it served as a store dwelling and stage stop for individuals traveling from Georgetown to Fort Gates. In 1879 Ogletree received approval of a request he had made for a post office; he was named postmaster. However, after about a year the post office was moved to the townsite location of Copperas Cove. Subsequently the building was sold to Jesse M. Clements, who made it his ranch headquarters. In 1923 Marvin Walker and wife bought the property. During their occupancy the spaces in the stone building were used as bedrooms; the frame addition to the back as kitchen, dining room, and master bedroom. E.T. Ray, a former sheriff and his wife, a daughter of Walker, then acquired the property in the early 1950's. It has since been donated to the city of Copperas Cove, restored, and now functions as an historical museum. BIBLIOGRAPHY ON FILE IN THE NATIONAL REGISTER CORYELL BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 1060 Location: From Crawford, take FM 185 west about 15 mi. City: Crawford Marker Erected: 1970 Marker Text: County's First Baptist Church. Organized, June 1885, by Elders John Clabaugh and S. G. O'Bryan. Charter members were Green and Adaline Franks; Rebecca Gibson; J. G. and Sarah Ann Green; Naomi Hall; Martha Hicks; Catherine and Jesse James; Jesse and Margret Lee; James, Jane Margaret and Minerva McILhaney. Congregation met for 30 years in homes and schoolhouse; in 1885, erected this building. Site was donated by Green Franks and Henry Hall. The Historic Church building was dismantled in 1982, and the lumber was used to repair the Tabernacle. CORYELL COUNTY Marker # 1070 Location: 8.5 miles E on US 84 in picnic area City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1936 Marker Text: Formed from Bell County; created February 4, 1854--Organized March 4, 1854. Named in Honor of James Coryell, born in Tennessee in 1796; a member of the Bowie Expedition to the old San Saba Silver Mines in 1831; a Texas Ranger; killed by Indians near Fort Milam May 27, 1837. County seat Fort Gates 1854; Gatesville since. CORYELL COUNTY COURTHOUSE Marker # 1071 Location: 600 Main Street City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1969 Marker Text: An outstanding example of Second Empire Victorian style, often seen in Texas Courthouse design. Erected in 1897 on land donated by early settler R. G. Grant. Architect for this third Coryell Courthouse was W. C. Dodson; builder, Tom Lovell. Limestone and red sandstone blocks were precut to the exact size at quarry, then hauled here by horse-drawn wagons. At each entrance are columns in Roman Corinthian style; and over the east entrance are columns in Roman Corinthian style; and over the east entrance is builder's mark of an owl. Statues on the roof represent "Justice." Noted trials have been held in this building. DAVIDSON CEMETERY Marker # 1174 Location: 8.5 miles east of Gatesville on US 84; 1.5 miles south on FM 1829 City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1997 Marker Text: James Madison (Matt) Davidson (1826-1925) came to Texas from Tennessee in 1852 and settled in Milam territory. In 1854 Matt Davidson and Vianna Moore (1832- 1912) were the second couple issued a marriage license in Coryell County, formerly Milam territory. After serving in the Confederate Army during the Civil War, Davidson bought land on Coryell Creek and built a log cabin there for his family. Land overlooking the Davidson homestead became the community cemetery. The earliest marked grave is that of S. R. Bailey in 1862. Many burials, including several for small children, took place before the graveyard location was described in a land survey in the 1890's. The community that grew around the cemetery included the Blackfoot and Davidson Schools, the Pecan Grove Post Office, businesses, churches and homes. The graveyard was also called the Blackfoot Cemetery. Among the more than 600 graves are those of veterans of wars from the Civil War through the Vietnam War. The Davidson Cemetery Association was established in 1985 to maintain the grounds. Two acres of land donated in 1988 by a Davidson descendant were added to the original six-acre graveyard. The cemetery continues to serve the area. (1997) EAGLE SPRINGS BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 1329 Location: FM 107 West City: Oglesby Marker Erected: 1984 Marker Text: This congregation grew from an early Coryell County fellowship known as the Church of Onion Creek. Worshippers met in a log building until it burned in 1854. In 1858 this site was acquired for a new church building. In the same year, the Rev. John McLain, a Baptist Missionary, organized the Eagle Springs Baptist Church from the earlier congregation. Charter members included J. H. and Nancy Estep; Evan A. and Tabitha Culpepper; Wyatt, Naomi and Serepha Hall; F. M. Elmira, and Mary Grimes; Daniel Jones; and C. S. and Zura Strickland. By 1880 Eagle Springs was a thriving community with two grocery stores, two doctors' offices, a post office, and a school. The congregation grew also, with many baptisms being held in the Leon River. During the first decades of the twentieth century, families began moving away form Eagle Springs. The community school was closed in 1935, and in 1948 members of Eagle Springs Baptist Church voted to disband. The church building was retained, however, for reunions and occasional services. It is one of the few remaining structures in the Eagle Springs Community. EVANT Marker # 1511 Location: Hwy 281, Town Square City: Evant Marker Erected: 1986 Marker Text: The town of Evant traces its history to an earlier settlement in this area. Langford Cove, founded in 1855 by Asa Langford (1820-1970), was located adjacent to and partly within the south boundary of the present town of Evant. A United States Post Office was authorized in 1876 under the name Cove. Evan T. Brooks and his family arrived in the area in 1876. In 1881 Brooks platted a townsite which was filed in Hamilton County records as Brooksville. The same plat appeared in Coryell County records in 1884 as Evant, so named form a combination of Brooks' first name and middle initial. Streets and blocks were carefully planned, including a town square. The Cove post office was transferred to Evant and renamed in 1885. In 1878 a one-room plank schoolhouse was erected on land donated by Asa Langford in 1875. It was replaced in 1888 by a stone structure which, with additions and modifications, served Evant Independent School District until 1976. Over the years, businesses were established and churches and community groups were organized. The citizens of Evant voted to incorporate in an election held in December 1976. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH BUILDING Marker # 30 Location: 300 W. Avenue B City: Copperas Cove Marker Erected: 1991 Marker Text: Designed by Melton W. Scott of Waco, this structure was built in 1908 for the historic First Baptist Church congregation during the pastorate of the Rev. A. B. Jenkins. The lofty one-story building of stone with brick accents features asymmetrical wooden towers and art glass windows. It was used primarily for worship services until 1965 when it became the location for Sunday School classes and other churches programs. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1991 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF COPPERAS COVE Marker # 1688 Location: 300 W. Avenue B City: Copperas Cove Marker Erected: 1991 Marker Text: Organized in 1885 by the Reverend J. F. Baker and thirteen charter members, this congregation first met in a community schoolhouse. The Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railway Company provided a plot of land for one dollar on which the members built their first sanctuary in 1890. The second sanctuary, built in 1908 to serve the growing congregation, is still in existence and used for Sunday School classes. The churches has produced several missionaries, ministers, and full-time Christian service professionals as it continues to provide important ministries to the community. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF GATESVILLE Marker # 1632 Location: 912 Main Street City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1989 Marker Text: Organized in 1856 with fewer than a dozen members, this congregation has been a part of Gatesville history for more than a century. The first meeting of the congregation was held in the Coryell County Courthouse, and early worship services were conducted in the homes of members. The Rev. W. A. Mason was the congregation's first pastor. A stone building was erected in 1866 to serve as a community school and house of worship for all denominations. The Baptist congregation met in the Union Church until 1872, when its first sanctuary was built on the corner of Bridge and 7th streets. An increase in membership necessitated the building of a larger sanctuary. This property was acquired, and a new frame building was completed in 1883. It served the congregation until 1936, when it was replaced by a larger structure. Additional facilities were built over the years to accommodate the growing programs of the church. An important part of Gatesville's history, this congregation continues to honor its founders and pioneers while serving the community with ongoing outreach programs. FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH BUILDING Marker # 1705 Location: 902 E. Leon Street City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Text: The first Christian Church of Gatesville had its beginnings in the 1880s. Officially organized in 1892, the congregation built this structure and met here until it disbanded in 1972. The building continued in use as a house of worship for other groups for several years until it was deeded to the Coryell County Museum in 1990. The building exhibits well-crafted elements of the Greek Revival style in its arched windows and steeply pitched roof. RTHL 1992 FIRST METHODIST CHURCH OF OGLESBY Marker # 1763 Location: 109 College Street City: Oglesby Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Text: This congregation was organized in 1891 as the Methodist Episcopal Church, south, and boasted 56 members in its first year. The Rev. J. David Crockett served as its first pastor. A church structure built in 1891 was destroyed by a tornado in 1893. A second structure completed by the congregation that year was replaced by this late Victorian-Era Queen Anne style building in 1912. It features a symmetrical form with a central gable and flanking bell towers. The church has sponsored an annual harvest festival to fund missionaries throughout the world, including Japan and Africa. FORT GATES Marker # 1983 Location: From Gatesville, take US 84 U.S. mi SE (Marker is off roadside) City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1936 Marker Text: First settlement in Coryell County. Established by Brevet Colonel W. R. Montgomery, 8th U.S. Infantry October 26, 1849, on the military post road between Austin and Fort Graham as a protection of the frontier against hostile Indians. Named in honor of Collinson R. Gates, gallant officer in the Mexican War. Abandoned in March 1852, as the frontier line had advanced further westward. Used as a place of defense by settlers during Indian raids. First county seat of Coryell County, February 4 - May 27, 1854 when Gatesville was established. GATESVILLE Marker # 2113 Location: In front of City Hall, 8th and Sanders City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1970 Marker Text: County seat of Coryell County, Gatesville began in 1854 after the county was created. Richard Grant, and Indian trader and local landowner, donated the townsite. It was named for Old Fort Gates (1849-1852), which had been established 5 miles east for Indian protection. The Fort, named for U.S. Army major G. R. Gates, was the first settlement in the county. For a few months Fort Gates served as county seat, but then Gatesville was chosen. The County's first mail line--from Gatesville to Belton--was set up in 1855. The town grew slowly at first, suffering from intermittent Indian raids, but the period from 1870 to 1882 saw great progress. In 1870 the town was incorporated and in 1872 a courthouse was built. When St. Louis & Southwestern railroad ran a spur line to Gatesville in 1882, the citizens held a gala welcoming celebration. With the railroad came prosperity and many new homes and businesses. A fine opera house, frontier symbol of culture, was erected and numerous civic improvements were initiated. Today the town is the home of the Gatesville and Mountain View State schools for boys. The economy of the area is based on ranching and agriculture. BENJAMIN F. GHOLSON Marker # 369 Location: From Evant, go 1 mile south on Highway 281 and go east about 1.0 mile on Langford Cove Road to cemetery. City: Evant Marker Erected: 1967 Marker Text: (Nov. 17, 1842-April 3, 1932) Born in Falls County. Son of early Texas settlers Albert G. and Elidia Anderson Gholson. After 1858-1859 service with Texas Rangers, he re-enlisted in company under Capt. J. M. Smith, and in 1860 aided in the rescue of Cynthia Ann Parker, kidnapped by Comanche Indians in 1836. Served in 2nd Regiment, Texas Cavalry in Civil War. Married Jane Adaline Langford. Prominent stockman, was active in the Texas Ex-Rangers Association. WILEY PARKER GRUBB Marker # 2292 Location: From Ireland, take CR 182 s. 1.4 mi to Wiley P. Grubb Cemetery. City: Ireland Marker Erected: 1993 Marker Text: (May 19, 1846- January 23, 1918) Wiley Parker Grubb, the son of Jacob N. and Mary Ann (Wiley) Grubb, was born in Walker County, Texas. He joined the Texas Rangers in 1863 and in 1865 was wounded at the battle of Dove Creek near present day San Angelo. He married Georgia Hester in 1872. In 1874 he bought land here in Coryell County from his father where he ranched and became a prominent landowner. Approximately 2 acres surrounding Grubb's gravesite were deeded as a public cemetery in 1937. HAMMACK BUILDING Marker # 2352 Location: 701 Main Street City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1985 Marker Text: The Hammack Building is located on property once owned by John Chrisman, who helped survey the town of Gatesville in 1854. The building was constructed by W. W. Hammack (1860-1913) in the late 1800s. Over the years, the Hammack family leased the structure, which has housed the Gatesville National Bank, a saloon, a drugstore, and other commercial establishments. The Italianate style building features elaborate brickwork. IMMANUEL LUTHERN CHURCH Marker # 2623 Location: From Copperas Cove, follow FM 116 N. about 1 1/4 mi then go W. on Lutheran church Rd., Cr 168, about 1.7 mi to church. City: Copperas Cove Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Text: This congregation traces its origin to the emigration of Wends from the Saxony Region of Germany to nearby Lee, Robertson, and Fayette counties. They resettled in this area, then known as the Twin Mountain Community, in 1891. Led by the Rev. A. W. Kramer, the Wends began Lutheran worship in 1892 at the home of Christian Jacob, located approximately one mile southwest of this site. The congregation was officially organized under the direction of the Rev. John Paul Ridel in 1894. A church building, constructed in 1895 became the site of Parochial school classes the following year. In 1899 the church properties and cemetery grounds were deeded to the congregation by A. E. Falke. A new church structure was complete at this site in 1914. A youth society, organized in 1915 and later affiliated with the International Walther League, was instrumental in the completion, in 1939, of the 60-foot native stone cross located near the church structure. The congregation's membership increased as military personnel from Fort Hood began to attend services soon after it was established as Camp Hood in 1942. Regional missionary work by this congregation was successful in spreading the Lutheran faith and was responsible for the establishment of four Lutheran churches in Central Texas by 1965. IRELAND SCHOOL Marker # 2651 Location: At school site, FM 932 at n city limits City: Ireland Marker Erected: 1986 Marker Text: School classes were first conducted in a church tabernacle when Ireland was founded in 1911. The town was platted on the Coryell-Hamilton County line and named for Texas Governor John Ireland (1827-1896). A wooden frame school was erected in 1914, and in 1921 five acres were purchased at this site for a new two-story brick school building. Peak enrollment occurred in 1940 when thirty students graduated. All grades were taught here until 1943 when high school classes moved to the Jonesboro and Evant Schools. This school closed in 1964, and the building was demolished in 1984. JONESBORO METHODIST CHURCH Marker # 2850 Location: Intersection of College St. & SH 36 City: Jonesboro Marker Erected: 1991 Marker Text: This congregation traces its history to the late 1860s, when early settlers of Jonesboro met together in a combination church-school Masonic Lodge building for worship services. W. L. Jones donated in 1871, and the congregation was formally organized that year. Their fist building, completed in 1871, was replaced by a succession of structures over the years to meet the needs of the membership. Methodist congregation in the nearby communities of Ames, Pancake, and Turnersville have merged with the Jonesboro Church. KING BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 2942 Location: From Gatesville: west on US 84 to FM 116, 3 miles south to FM 1783, 7 miles west to King City: King Marker Erected: 1997 Marker Text: This church traces its history to 1875, when a Baptist congregation organized and held worship services in the Stringtown log schoolhouse. Baptism services were conducted at Cowhouse Creek. In 1880 Monroe and Mary Pruett deeded two acres of land to the Baptist Church. A new sanctuary was built in 1901 using volunteer labor. In the 1930's the church changed its name to King Baptist Church. Weekly services began in 1951. Church members built a new sanctuary and educational facilities in 1974. The church has served the area for more than 120 years. (1997) LEON RIVER BRIDGE Marker # 28 Location: West Leon Street at Leon River City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1996 Marker Text: The route once known as the Old Georgetown Road was in existence by 1854 and crossed the Leon River here. A ferry operated at this crossing as early as 1854 and was owned by R. G. Grant, a local entrepreneur and land developer. The Bowstring Truss Bridge erected near here in 1882 was the first metal truss bridge in Coryell County. It was damaged by two major floods in 1899 and 1900, and the County Commissioners Court authorized the building of another bridge. The George E. King Bridge Company of Des Moines, Iowa built this structure in 1904. Features include steel construction, wood decking, original lattice railings, pin-connected members, and elaborate stone abutments. The overall length of 141 feet from end to end allows for the 4-foot depth of masonry piers supporting the bridge. It is a 137-foot Pratt through truss span with a 5-foot timber approach span, and is one of few such bridges surviving in Texas. The 1904 bridge served as a major east-west artery for Central Texas. The road became part of State Highway 7 in 1917, and was renamed U.S. Highway 84 in the 1930s. The historic bridge was restored and rededicated in 1994. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1996 JOHN CREED MOORE Marker # 3461 Location: At Osage Cemetery, loc. 10 mi. west of Crawford on FM 185 City: Crawford Marker Erected: 1963 Marker Text: Star and Wreath Brigadier General, C.S.A. Commended for outstanding gallantry at Shiloh, led brigade at Corinth and Vicksburg, fought at Chattanooga and Mobile. Erected by the State of Texas, 1963. MOTHER NEFF STATE PARK Marker # 3480 Location: From The Grove, take SH 236 about 6 mi NE to Park Road 14 then follow west 1 mi to Park entrance. City: The Grove Marker Erected: 1968 Marker Text: First official state park in Texas; suggested the idea for the State Parks system. Originated with a 6-acre plot willed to Texas in 1916 by Mrs. Isabella E. Neff, Mother of Pat M. Neff, Governor of Texas (1921-1925) Because Texas then had no state parks, Mrs. Neff stated the land was to be used for religious, fraternal, political, and educational activities. Seeing the need for more such areas, 1923, the 39th Legislature created the State Parks Board. In 1934 Pat Neff deeded 250 acres, and other owners 3 acres, to enlarge the original tract. MT. HIRAM LODGE NO. 595 Marker # 3519 Location: Corner of N. First & Reagan Avenues City: Copperas Cove Marker Erected: 1993 Marker Text: Mt. Hiram Lodge No. 595 was chartered on December 12, 1884. Lodge members shared their fist facility, a two-story structure located near present-day downtown Copperas Cove, with a public school. In its early years the lodge participated in a local volunteer company of Minutemen and helped develop this area's economy. The lodge relocated in 1894 to Main Street and Ave. D, above the J. S. Clements & Bro. Mercantile Store. Growth in its membership led to the building of a new lodge facility at this site in 1970. This lodge continues to serve the local community. OGLETREE STAGESTOP AND POST OFFICE Marker # 3681 Location: US 190 right-of-way, 1 miles south City: Copperas Cove Marker Erected: 1979 Marker Text: After Marsden Ogletree (1819-1896) and his family migrated from Georgia, he received a land grant in 1878. Inscriptions on two stones in this house indicate the structure was erected the same year. It served as the family home, grain store, and stopping place for the Lampasas to Belton stagecoach. Since the mail arrived by stage, a post office was opened here in 1879 with Olgetree as Postmaster. Legend says that the settlement received the name "Coperas Cove" from a copperas-tasting spring in the cove of a nearby mountain. Samuel Gilmore served as the second Postmaster. In 1881 Gilmore's father-in-law Jesse M. Clements (1822-1900) and his wife Charley deeded land for the right-of-way to the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railroad. The following year the railroad laid out the new townsite of Coperas Cove. Soon the center of the community, including the post office, moved over to the railroad. Later the town corrected the spelling of its name to "Copperas Cove." In 1891 Clements bought this house and used it as the headquarters for his large ranching operations. The old stone stagestop remains a visible link with the community's pioneer heritage. OSAGE CEMETERY Marker # 3880 Location: From Crawford, take FM 185 west about 10 miles City: Crawford Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Text: Residents of the Osage Community began using this site as a burial place about the mid-1870s, soon after area settlement began. Though the presence of unmarked burials indicates possible earlier usage, the first marked burial, that of R. P. Doherty, dates to 1874. Although used by the community, the graveyard was privately owned by real estate surveyor and investor Luther Kimbell and his sister Josephine Kimbell during its early years, and was not legally designated a cemetery until 1885. That year, Josephine Kimbell had a cemetery platted around the existing graves and began commercial operation of the cemetery. In 1892, Luther Kimbell assumed responsibility for the graveyard, which he operated for the rest of his life. The Osage Cemetery contains over 800 marked and unmarked graves, including those of Osage's earliest settlers and veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. It has been maintained by the Osage Cemetery Association since 1970. The only cemetery to have served this community, the historic burial ground is a tangible reminder of the area's pioneer heritage. PEARL BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 3961 Location: From Pearl, take FM 183 SE about 11 miles (W side of road) City: Evant Marker Erected: 1985 Marker Text: This church was organized in 1884 under the guidance of the Rev. E. Berry, a pioneer area missionary and preacher. Originally located in the Bee House community (4 Mi. W), it was first known as the Bee House Missionary Baptist Church. Early worship services were held in the Masonic Lodge Hall that also served as the community schoolhouse. When the church relocated here in 1889, the congregational name was changed to Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. The surrounding settlement was then known as Wayback, but later renamed Pearl. Early settler and rancher Charles T. Karnes sold three acres of his property to the church for their first sanctuary at this site. The small frame structure was used for worship services until 1949. The congregation met for church services on the fourth Sunday of each month until 1957, when its first full time pastor was secured. A tabernacle, built about 1908 on the boundary line between the Baptist and Methodist Church properties, has been the site of many revivals. Summer Brush Arbor meetings were held before construction of the Tabernacle. For over a century the Pearl Baptist Church has played a significant role in the area's history. PEARL CHURCH OF CHRIST Marker # 3962 Location: From Evant, take FM 183 SE about 11 miles (E side of road) City: Evant Marker Erected: No marker found Marker Text: No marker found PEARL METHODIST CHURCH Marker # 3963 Location: From Evant, take FM 183 SE about 11.1 miles (W side of road) City: Purmela Marker Erected: 1988 Marker Text: A group of Methodists gathered in the home of the Rev. John Wesley Shook (1846- 1921) in the winter of 1875-76 to organize a congregation. Early worship services were held in the Hope schoolhouse. In 1890 landowner Charley Karnes (1854-1933) gave the Methodist Church three acres of land on which to build sanctuary. By 1892 a Sunday School was in operation, and in 1900 a parsonage was built near the church. The existing sanctuary was erected about 1919-1920, and the parsonage was sold in 1953. Serving the people of a large area, the size of the church's membership varied over the years. As the population of surrounding communities began to grow, members of Pearl Methodist Church withdrew to help organize new congregations. In October 1975 the church celebrated its centennial with a special program involving descendants of J. W. Shook and other early members. Four years later, in March 1979, the congregation voted to disband and the church was officially discontinued by the Methodist denomination. The church property was given to the Pearl Cemetery Association in 1985. Pearl Methodist Church stands as a reminder of the area's early heritage. PEARL SCHOOL Marker # 3964 Location: From Evant, take FM 183 SE about 12 miles City: Purmela Marker Erected: 1970 Marker Text: Evolved from a log cabin with puncheon floor and with split log benches to a modern plant with a gymnasium. Furnished its fair share of educated citizens. In early days, a one or two-teacher school. First trustees were J. H. Harrison, V. C. Karnes, and Frank Roberts. In 1907, with a new building, faculty increased to three; in 1917, to four; seven-teacher high school in 1934. Since school's consolidation with Evant district (1958), this building memorable for youthful associations has become Pearl Community Center and is often visited by ex-students. 1970 Incised on back: Sponsored by Pearl Community Center. A. V. Freeman, President; C. E. Freeman, Vice President; Gordon Shook, Treasurer. PECAN GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 3970 Location: From Gatesville, take FM 107 E about 9 miles City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1994 Marker Text: On August 7, 1882, this church was organized as Coryell Creek Baptist Church of Christ by Monroe M. Smith, James M. Davidson, Joe F. and Martha J. Alsup, and Cordelia C. Beaty, with the help of D. J. Hardin and the Rev. J. M. Wright. An additional seven members joined that day. Early services were held at Blackfoot and Davidson Schools and at annual brush arbor meetings at Pecan Grove on the west side of Coryell Creek. In 1903 the congregation, then known as Coryell Creek Missionary Baptist Church, built a tabernacle on the east side of Coryell Creek on land donated by Frank M. Martin. In 1929 the congregation changed its name to Pecan Grove Baptist Church and began building a sanctuary at this site. In 1930 the tabernacle was enlarged to accommodate the large number of people attending annual camp meetings. Church facilities have been enlarged and modernized over the years. Pecan Grove, recognized by Baylor University for its support of ministerial students, has held memberships in the Leon River, Coryell, and Tri-River Baptist Associations, and the Southern Baptist Convention. As many as six generations of some local families have been members of this congregation. Pecan grove continues to serve the area with various outreach programs. 1994 PIDCOKE BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 4014 Location: FM 116 City: Pidcoke Marker Erected: 1986 Marker Text: Organized in 1884 as Harmony Baptist Church, this congregation began with four charter members. Early worship services were held in the local schoolhouse. A sanctuary, erected in 1907 was destroyed by fire two years later. A new church was built by 1911, and in 1916 the name was changed to Pidcoke Baptist Church. In 1934, a new sanctuary replaced the 1911 structure. Among the church's traditions are camp meetings and baptisms in Cow House Creek. Active in community projects, the congregation led in the restoration of Pidcoke Cemetery. PIDCOKE CEMETERY Marker # 12413 Location: FM 116 City: Pidcoke Marker Erected: 2001 Marker Text: Serving the rural Pidcoke and Harman communities, this cemetery dates to at least 1885, the year six-year-old Mattie Jeter was buried here after dying in a fall from a wagon. Local landowners H. S. (Tip) Perryman and W. H. Belcher formally deeded portions of their land for a community graveyard in 1896, and members of both the Perryman and Belcher families are interred here. The Pidcoke community was named for English colonist the Rev. Richard Burton Pidcoke's sons, Hartley and Reginald, who began a successful ranching enterprise in the area in 1857. Stock raising and other agricultural pursuits sustained the economy until the acquisition of land for Camp Hood in 1942 resulted in the relocation of many families. Generations of families are buried in the Pidcoke Cemetery, including that of H. S. Perryman, a native of Arkansas, who drove cattle to Kansas and served as Coryell County tax assessor (1876-1886). Perryman died in 1897, soon after donating land for the cemetery. Others interred here include veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam. The Pidcoke Cemetery Association, dating to at least 1936, cares for the cemetery. The association has conducted a census of the cemetery, worked to provide markers for unmarked graves and acquired additional land in 1985. The graveyard remains in use as a reminder of Pidcoke's settlement and heritage. (2001) PRAIRIE CHAPEL SCHOOL Marker # 4105 Location: From Fm 929 in Coryell City take Coryell City Rd north about 2 mi, then go west on Canaan Church Rd. for about .25 mi, then 1 mi N. on Prairie Chapel Rd. City: Coryell City Marker Erected: 1995 Marker Text: No marker found PURMELA BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 4138 Location: From Gatesville, take SH 84 about 14 mi west, then take FM 932 about 1 mi north. City: Gatesville Marker Erected: 1991 Marker Text: This congregation traces its history to 1886, when the Rev. W. M. Blakely and ten charter members organized the Basham Baptist Church in the old Basham School Building at the Smith Cemetery (ca. 1.7 Mi. S). Basham Baptist Church merged with Salem Baptist Church (also known as Round Valley Baptist Church) in 1901, and the new consolidated congregations built a sanctuary at Cravey Crossing on Cowhouse Creek (ca. 2 mi SW). The church's name was changed to Cravey Crossing Baptist Church. Worship services were conducted in the creek. In 1927, after the congregation voted to relocate to this site, the Cravey Crossing Church building was dismantled and rebuilt here by volunteers. The name was changed to Purmela Baptist Church when construction was completed in 1928, and soon worship services were conducted weekly. Throughout its history, this church has served members in a large rural area. The church facilities have been enlarged over the years to serve the growing congregation, which continues to maintain many of its historic traditions. ST. JOHN LUTHERAN CHURCH Marker # 5039 Location: FM 929 City: Coryell City Marker Erected: 1989 Marker Text: The area around Coryell City was settled in the 1880s by a number of German immigrant families. Desiring to worship in their native language, a group of settlers began meeting together in homes. The Rev. Johannes Barthel of the Lutheran Church occasionally conducted services for the settlers. He was succeeded by the Rev. R. Seils, who officially organized St. John Lutheran Church on December 7, 1889, in the Home of Fritz Wiede. The congregation purchased two acres of land and built their first sanctuary in 1890. It was replaced by a larger structure in 1908, which served the congregation until it was destroyed by fire in 1921. A new sanctuary built that year was replaced by a red brick structure in 1959. Worship services were periodically conducted in the German language until 1952, despite some ill feeling the practice caused during the years of World War I. Adjacent to the church is the St. John Lutheran Cemetery. Dating to the 1890s, it is the final resting place of many church and community members, including veterans of World War I, World War II, and Vietnam. ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH Marker # 5071 Location: 1 mi S. of intersection of SH 36 & FM 114, on FM 114 City: The Grove Marker Erected: 1983 Marker Text: During the late 1870s German farmer William Winkler and other area pioneers organized a Lutheran congregation that was formally chartered in 1883 as St. Paul Lutheran Church. By 1896 members had erected a sanctuary on Winkler's farm and had called the Rev. Huge as their first full-time pastor. When the fellowship outgrew the first church building, they moved to this site in the grove in 1908. With deep roots in the German Christian tradition, services at St. Paul Lutheran Church were often held in both English and German. WOOD CEMETERY Marker # 5896 Location: From Jonesboro, Take SH 36 SE about 2 mi to CR 194, then go south about 1 mi City: Jonesboro Marker Erected: 1994 Marker Text: This cemetery, probably named for noted pioneer Educator D. R. Wood, was established with the 1858 burial of Sarah E. Shipman, wife of prominent local rancher John K. Shipman. More than 20 additional burials were recorded before John Shipman deeded 11.5 acres here for cemetery, church, and school purposes in 1877. The cemetery contains grave sites of many area pioneer settlers and their descendants and veterans of the Civil War and World Wars I and II. Wood Cemetery remains active and is maintained by an association of descendants of persons buried here.