JOHNSON 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 ******************************************************************************** JOHNSON COUNTY HISTORICAL MARKERS The Texas Historical Commission http://www.thc.state.tx.us/index.html ALVARADO Marker # 137 Location: College Street, Alvarado Town Square City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1994 Marker Text: Early settler David Mitchell established a trading post near here in the late 1840s, about the time colonists of W. S. Peters' empresario grant began to settle the area. Colonist William Balch, who settled on an area land grant in 1852, was later to become known as the "Father of Alvarado" for his efforts in having the townsite surveyed in 1854, establishing the first general merchandise stores on the square, and for donating land for a cemetery, school, and union church. The town, named for Alvarado, Mexico, soon boasted a post office, homes, businesses, and churches. A community school established about 1855 became The Alvarado Masonic Institute in 1875. Rail lines extended through Alvarado by the Missouri Pacific Railroad in 1881 and by the Chicago, Texas, and Mexican Central Railroad in 1884 spurred a local economic boom. By 1885 Alvarado had several churches, two schools, two gins, an opera house, a bank, a newspaper, and a population of about 2,000. The Masonic Institute became the Alvarado Normal Institute in 1899 and Alvarado High School in 1908-09. A large jail/town hall erected at this site in the mid-1880s was removed in the 1920s and replaced with a garden arrangement; a gazebo was added later. (1994) OLIVER PERRY ARNOLD Marker # 3853 Location: Hopewell Cemetery; take Highway 174 north about 4 miles from Courthouse, then go east on county road and follow about 1 mile, then take 2nd county road and follow about 1 mile, then take 2nd county road east about 3/4 mile, then take 3rd county road east 1/4 mile to Hopewell Road go east on Hopewell road 1/10 mile to cemetery City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1968 Marker Text: An officer noted for integrity. Born in South Carolina. Came to Texas 1847, and engaged in livestock and mercantile business. Spent six years seeking gold in California. Returned to Johnson County, 1859; joined Co. H, Young's regiment, 1861. Served with distinction as Sheriff of Johnson County, 1870-1876. Married Abigail Winchester; they had 12 children. Arnold was the first president, Johnson County Park and Fair Association. BALCH-SENTERWOOD CEMETERY Marker # 285 Location: 205 South Parkway Street City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1996 Marker Text: This graveyard was established in 1856 adjacent to the Balch Cemetery for the African American population following the death of a slave girl killed by a black bear. The girl had come to Alvarado with George Sigler and his family, whose farm was located south of the Balch Community Cemetery. Among those buried here are victims of an epidemic of smallpox, and other diseases such as diphtheria, whooping cough, and tuberculosis. Casualties included numerous children. The need for burial space became acute by 1911 following these disease-related deaths. A. J. Senter, local businessman and undertaker, donated additional land to the Alvarado "Colored" Cemetery in 1911. The site was renamed Senterwood Cemetery in his honor. The need for more burial plots in the 1940s was resolved through the purchase of one acre of land by the Baker Funeral Home of Fort Worth. Interments in this cemetery include many business owners, church leaders, and veterans of World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War. Cemetery maintenance, previously dependent upon local volunteers, was performed under the direction of the Johnson County Cemetery Association. The Balch-Senterwood Cemetery continues to serve the surrounding communities. (1996) SAM BASS HOLDUP Marker # 12673 Location: 4 miles N of Joshua on SH 174 City: Joshua Marker Erected: 1966 Marker Text: Along with two partners, Sam Bass, daring Texas outlaw, stopped a Fort Worth- Cleburne stage near here Dec. 20, 1877. Without firing a shot, they disarmed the driver, robbed passengers of $11.25. One outlaw, shot by a witness, was left by Bass to die. Less than a year later, Bass too was slain. BETHEL SALTER A.M.E. CHURCH Marker # 392 Location: 106 Olive Street City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1996 Marker Text: Salter Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church was established in Cleburne in 1887 by the Goodwin and Sims families, with help from Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church in Fort Worth, and was named for Bishop Moses B. Salter (1841-1913). The first church building was built on East Chambers Street, followed by a sanctuary erected on Brazos Street in 1918. The Sanctuary was relocated here in 1926 on land donated by the Charles Alexander family with funding help from the Grand Lodge Colored Knights of Pythias of Texas. A community church was formed in Oak Hill south of Cleburne and formally recognized by the A.M.E. Conference of Texas in the 1940s. The church was named Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church. In 1943 a building was purchased for a sanctuary and moved to Oak Hill. Both churches had experienced a decline in membership, and officially merged into one congregation in 1988, named Bethel Salter A.M.E. Church. The aging sanctuary was torn down, and a new church building was constructed with the help of community volunteers and completed in 1992. The church continues traditional outreach programs and has as its creed "everlasting commitment to God our father, Christ our redeemer, and man our brother." (1996) BETHESDA COMMUNITY Marker # 395 Location: From Burleson, take I-35W south about 3 miles to Bethesda Road exit take Access road south about .5 miles then turn right on Bethesda Road access right follow 1/10 mile west to cemetery City: Burleson Marker Erected: 1987 Marker Text: The Bethesda Community traces its history to 1853, when pioneer farmer David R. Jackson donated land for a community cemetery. Unmarked graves date to 1844, and the earliest marked burials are from 1856. Bethesda Baptist Church was organized on August 13, 1855. It was the First Baptist Church in the county and was called Cross Timbers Bethesda Baptist Church. Services were held in a log cabin. Initially served by circuit riding ministers, the church's first pastor was William Robinson. A Sunday school was organized in 1887. Services were held monthly until 1944, when weekly meetings were begun. After the original log cabin church burned in 1878, a new wooden structure was built. A brick sanctuary was constructed in 1959, and became a fellowship hall in 1980 when a new facility was completed. A community school was organized in 1855. Located at the head of Crill Miller Creek, it was called Crill Miller School. In 1918 it was consolidated with the Post Oak and Village Creek Schools to form Bethesda School. A four-room schoolhouse was built and served as a center for many community activities. Bethesda School was incorporated into the Burleson Independent School District in 1950. HENRY BRIDEN CABIN Marker # 2443 Location: First State Bank grounds, Highway 174 City: Rio Vista Marker Erected: 1975 Marker Text: Henry Briden (1825-1908) came to Texas from his native Germany in 1845 and served for two years as a Texas Ranger. In 1849, he and his wife, Lucinda Sevier (1831-75), became first permanent white settlers in what is now Johnson County, when they built this cabin on the east bank of Nolan's River (2.5 mil. northwest). The one-room log structure was later used as a barn when Briden erected a larger home nearby. In 1974, it was restored and moved to this site. BRUCE-DAVIS HOUSE Marker # 541 Location: Broadway at Miflin City: Cresson Marker Erected: 1978 Marker Text: Alabama-born Madison Jones, who donated land in Cresson for a school and a Methodist church, had this neighborhood platted in 1889. He sold this lot to Richard Bruce (1849-1895), a stock raiser from a pioneer Johnson County family. Bruce built this modest frame house and embellished the structure with decorative porch trim. The interior has beaded walls and ceilings. After Bruce's death, his widow Mary (Wood) (1852-1924) married James F. Davis (1846- 1928). They continued to occupy the residence, which has been enlarged three times. BUCHANAN Marker # 4735 Location: Private-no access. From Gudley take SH 171 north about 4 miles then go east on county road about 1/10 mile to cemetery City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1972 Marker Text: Johnson County's second seat of government. (Wardville, just west of Nolan River, at U.S. 67, was first). Buchanan, named for president-elect of the United States, was founded in December 1856 on 60-acre townsite donated by John P. Bailey. A jail (first for the county) and office for the district clerk were built 1858. But lack of a reliable water supply hindered town's growth. Later resurvey of county lines showed necessity for a new site. In 1867, Camp Henderson (renamed Cleburne, July 4, 1867) was chosen. Cemetery is only remaining trace of Old Buchanan townsite. CAHILL METHODIST CHURCH Marker # 621 Location: From Alvarado, take I-35W north 6 miles, then take FM 917 east 2 miles to intersection with CR 604 City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1989 Marker Text: Nancy and Aquilla Cahill came to Texas in 1859 and settled in this area. The community which grew up around their farm was known as Cahill. In 1893 land for a Methodist church and cemetery was deeded by Sarah E. Snodgrass in memory of her father, Aquilla Cahill. A sanctuary and tabernacle were built by church members and the congregation was served by circuit riding ministers. Cahill Methodist Church has been a focal point of the community throughout its existence, serving people from a large rural area. CARNEGIE LIBRARY BUILDING Marker # 731 Location: 201 North Caddo Street City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1981 Marker Text: A Cleburne Public Library was begun in 1901 under the direction of the local women's club. In 1902 members of the organization met with New York industrialist and benefactor Andrew S. Carnegie to secure funds for a building. His gift was matched by local contributions and this structure was completed in 1905. Featuring details of the beaux arts and classical revival styles and a second floor theater, it housed the library until 1978. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1981 EARLY CATTLE TRADE Marker # 1338 Location: On grounds of Rio Vista Street Bank SH 174 City: Rio Vista Marker Erected: 1965 Marker Text: Famed for its beef since era of the Republic, Texas fed a great part of the Confederacy-- both civilians and army-- in the Civil War years, 1861-1865. Routes for beef supplying were many: Shreveport Trail to Vicksburg, Miss.; Alexandria Trail to Natchez, Miss.; Opelousas Trail to Woodville, Miss., and on to Mobile, Ala.; Old Government Road to Little Rock, Ark.; Oliver Loving's 1859 trail north, to Indian Territory; trails to all army depots and even to Mexico. Cowboys had to swim cattle across rivers-- even the Mississippi. After undergoing such hardships, one outfit was mistakenly arrested by Confederates. Lt. Col. J. F. Scurlock and son, from Johnson County, on a Texas beef drive into southern Louisiana, were arrested by Federals and died in prison, of fever. Meredith Hart (1811-1864), a leading beef supplier, came to Johnson County in 1855, after fighting for the Texas Republic in 1836. In the 1850s, he sold beef to the U.S. Army. During the Civil War, he was one of the ranchers victimized by beef contractors using counterfeit money, but accepted losses in the faith that beef was feeding his sons and others on Confederate fighting fronts. CHURCH OF THE HOLY COMFORTER Marker # 860 Location: 209 East Wardenville City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1970 Marker Text: As early as 1860, the Rt. Rev. Alexander Gregg, first bishop of Texas, visited Johnson County. This parish, first in the county, was formed 1871; the Rev. Robert S. Nash was first rector. First church building in Cleburne (northeast corner, Henderson and Robinson) was completed by congregation of the Holy Comforter in 1874. Present church, built 1893 during ministry of the Rev. W. W. Patrick, has been in continuous use, and is preserved in original state. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1970 CITY SPRING Marker # 4847 Location: 304 West Henderson Street City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1966 Marker Text: Early-day watering spot for explorers, Confederate Camp Henderson, settlers. People came many miles to wash, haul water, visit. At a nickel a bucket, boys "toted" water to merchants. Brick-lined pool often was dipped dry, but spring always refilled it. First city well tapped source. CITY WAGON YARDS Marker # 878 Location: (across from City hall in parking lot) 300th block of West Henderson Street City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1966 Marker Text: Were meeting places for early rural folks coming to town to buy, sell, trade, catch up on latest news. Here on this lot farmers, travelers for "two bits" got feed, water for teams; crude overnight accommodations. Wagon yards, outdated by better roads, cars, trucks, were forerunner of motels. CLEBURNE LODGE NO. 315, A.F. & A.M. Marker # 11957 Location: 103 S. Caddo Street City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 2000 Marker Text: The new town of Cleburne was selected as the Johnson County Seat in 1867. Two years later, The Grand Lodge of Texas granted a charter to the Cleburne Masonic Lodge No. 315. The members built a lodge hall in March 1871 and the town of Cleburne was officially chartered two months later. Early members of the Cleburne Lodge who were influential in the town's development included B. J. Chambers, Jeremiah Easterwood, N. H. Cook, J. A. Willingham, B. S. Greenshaw, B. F. Clayton, and Charles W. Breech. Several Cleburne mayors and county and state judges have been members of Cleburne Lodge No. 315. The lodge's financial outreach and community activities center around educational efforts. (2000) CLEBURNE TOWN SQUARE Marker # 915 Location: Courthouse west lawn, Hwy 171-174 City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1970 Marker Text: Traces its beginning to 1854 when first house, a log cabin, was built here near a good spring. County seat was bodily moved by wagon to this place (then called Camp Henderson) in 1867, and renamed to honor Patrick Cleburne, a Confederate general under whom many local Civil War veterans had served. Cleburne's growth has been rapid, particularly in the field of commerce, since 1876. The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railroad line from Galveston to Fort Worth passed through Cleburne in 1881. A short time later, new branches connected the town with Dallas and Weatherford. In 1898, the railroad's workshops were located here and development of Cleburne as an industrial center began. By 1950, Cleburne boasted a steel foundry, milk processing plants, ladies' garment factory, lime plant, chair factory, battery plant and the state's largest railroad construction and repair shops. Typical of other American towns, outward expansion found the original business district taking on a neglected appearance. In 1968, a group called "Our Town, Inc." became concerned with this deterioration and enlisted citizens' aid to help reverse the trend and restore the downtown district. CONFEDERATE SOLDIERS Marker # 1029 Location: Courthouse lawn, Hwy 171-174 City: Cleburne Marker Only DUKE CEMETERY Marker # 11959 Location: 2.2 mi E of Alvarado on CR 1807; 0.5 mi S on CR 206 City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1998 Marker Text: Dr. John Duke (1827-1884), his wife Martha (1836-1888), and their family moved to Johnson County in 1854. They established a farm in the area later called the Willow Springs Community. When their ten-year-old daughter Zilla died in 1870, they buried her on the family farm. Zilla was soon joined by siblings Orson and Lucy. Emma Griffin, a relative's child, was buried beside the Duke children in 1878. Dr. Duke deeded the burial ground to the community in 1879; four more Duke children had died by 1882. Other Willow Springs residents interred here include ranchers and farmers, teachers, merchants, ministers, and soldiers. (1998) EMORY HOME Marker # 1481 Location: 700 East College City: Grandview Marker Erected: 1986 Marker Text: Maryland native John Samuel Emory (d. 1953) and his wife Mary Elizabeth (Van Cleave) (d. 1957) built this two-story residence in 1907. A successful farmer and stockman, John Emory became one of Grandview's outstanding civic leaders. The Emory home, owned by family members until 1961, reflects influences of the Queen Anne and classical styles. It is one of the few early homes to escape Grandview's destructive fire of 1920. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1986 EXELL-McLEROY COTTON GIN Marker # 4781 Location: From IH-35 west exit #26 and US 67 2 miles north of Alvarado on CR 600 to intersection with CR 604 City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1997 Marker Text: John Ezell (1857-1933) and his family moved from Alabama to Texas in 1867 and settled on a farm near here. The growth of cotton crops increased in Johnson County by the 1890s, and the need for more cotton gins became acute. In 1896 Ezell built a cotton gin on his land located halfway between the communities of Alvarado and Cahill; it became a major business in rural Johnson County. Although the cotton gin with its wooden siding was destroyed in an 1899 fire, Ezell rebuilt before the 1900 season began and installed new equipment. Cotton production continued to expand in the area and Ezell became a successful gin owner and farmer. J. Otto McLeroy, Sr. (1883-1966) took over operations at the gin in 1917, and it became known as the McLeroy Gin. Cotton buyers were attracted to Alvarado by two rail lines that intersected there, bound for major cotton markets in Dallas, Fort Worth and Waco. The McLeroy Gin continued to operate through the 1920s and 1930s, and finally closed in 1948. The building housing the cotton gin burned in 1953, destroying the remnants of a once- thriving business. (1997) FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CLEBURNE Marker # 12777 Location: 105 E. Willingham Street City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 2002 Marker Text: First Baptist Church Of Cleburne Baptist missionary preacher W. A. Mason held a revival in the new Johnson County Seat of Cleburne in 1868 and on May 5 of that year formally organized the First Baptist Church with 16 members. Mason stayed on as pastor of the new congregation until the Rev. J. R. Clarke arrived in 1869 to begin an 11-year pastorate. During his tenure, the congregation purchased property and constructed its first building. In 1893, the Rev. Dr. George W. Baines, Jr., accepted the call to serve as pastor, and he led the church to found three new Baptist congregations. A new building was completed in 1901 on this site during the pastorate of the Rev. J. A. Hendricks to accommodate the growing congregation. Additional facilities, including an education building, were established to house the expanding ministries and church programs. After the sanctuary was found to be in poor repair, a new auditorium was constructed in 1941. Throughout its history, the First Baptist Church of Cleburne has accomplished significant work in the mission field, both in the community and overseas. A noteworthy part of the religious and cultural history of Cleburne, the congregation continues to uphold the ideals and traditions of its founders. (2002) FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF GODLEY Marker # 1633 Location: Allen and Fourth City: Godley Marker Erected: 1994 Marker Text: Originally known as Bethany Baptist Church, this congregation was organized in the spring of 1878 at the home of J. P. Vickers, about four miles from what is now the town of Godley. In 1880, during the pastorate of the Rev. S. E. Brook, the new church was accepted into the Alvarado Baptist Association. Worship services were held the first Sunday and every third Saturday and Sunday of the month. In 1899 the congregation moved into the town of Godley and adopted the name Godley Baptist Church. The fellowship became known as First Baptist Church in 1974. FIRST METHODIST CHURCH Marker # 1741 Location: 301 South Spear Street City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1965 Marker Text: Held early services in hall put up by Wm. Balch, who in 1851 founded Alvarado. First church built 1866, burned 1885. This Victorian building with spire and lancet windows, 1886-1887 annexes 1940, 1950, 1960. Still has original bell. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965 GRANDVIEW Marker # 5529 Location: Community corner, 206 Crier Street City: Grandview Marker Erected: 1970 Marker Text: Settled in 1850 on land grant from Governor Elisha M. Pease. Supplies were hauled by ox wagon from Houston. A visitor exclaimed, "What a grand view!" Which gave community its name. Church organized 1853. Post office opened in 1856. Masonic lodge (county's first) founded 1860. Town moved to this site, on Missouri-Kansas-Texas rail line, in 1883. Incorporated in 1891. Home of Grand View Collegiate Institute 1897-1907. Devastating 1920 fire razed 135 homes, schools, churches, and businesses. Town name changed to Grandview (one word) in 1925. GRANDVIEW CEMETERY AND ORIGINAL GRAND VIEW TOWN SITE Marker # 11960 Location: FM 4, just E of CR 401 City: Grandview Marker Erected: 1999 Marker Text: John Whitmire, the son-in-law of early settler F. L. Kirtley, is credited with naming this town in 1854 by saying, "What a Grand View!" Kirtley donated 2.5 acres for a Baptist church and cemetery in 1856. Intending to lay out a town plat, James F. Scurlock purchased about 1400 acres of land surrounding the cemetery the same year. The oldest marked burial here is that of James F. and Rebecca Criner Scurlock's child, James C., who was born and died on June 4, 1857. By 1860 Grand View included three general stores, a blacksmith shop, a church building and Lodge No. 266, A.F & A.M., chartered in 1861 as the first Masonic lodge in Johnson County. After James Scurlock's death during the Civil War, his family sold the town site to F. M. Sansom. Several stores, a saloon, and more churches were established as the community grew. Of the many graves in the cemetery, one has taken on the status of local legend. A pair of young travelers came to Grand View one evening in summer 1867. The young woman was found murdered the next morning with no sign of her companion. The people of the community buried her in a handmade coffin and marked her tombstone "Annie," the name on an embroidered handkerchief she carried. The African American section of the cemetery contains the graves of many residents, including the unmarked graves of Scott and Elmira Matlock. They were among Grand View's earliest settlers. The railroad came through about a mile southeast of the town in 1881, and by 1883 the main section of Grand View had moved to it. The cemetery gradually took over the entire old town site. The cemetery continued to serve the community, now known by the single word "Grandview." The cemetery and the original town site remain as a chronicle of the pioneers of Johnson County. (1999) GREENBRIER BAPTIST CHURCH Marker # 2271 Location: From Alvarado, take CR 401 south from south city limit about 3.5 miles then go west on FM 2415 for 1/4 mile to intersection with CR 313 City: Alvarado vicinity Marker Erected: 1983 Marker Text: Constituted in 1878 with 17 charter members, this pioneer church originally served early settlers of the Greenbrier community, renamed Greenfield in 1917 when the Stubblefield School merged with the local district. Before the construction of sanctuaries, the Baptist and Methodist congregations met together in the community's schoolhouse. A center of activity in the surrounding area for over a century, the Greenbrier Baptist Church has been led by many prominent pastors and Johnson County pioneers. MEREDITH HART HOUSE Marker # 3344 Location: Private from Rio Vista, take FM 916 0.5 mile east City: Rio Vista Marker Erected: 1965 Marker Text: Built 1856 by Indian fighter, cattleman, Texas Ranger, patriot. Early Texas colonial. Built by slaves. Hand-hewn and pegged foundation. No nails in framing. Timbers carted from Louisiana by oxen. A.A. AND SUSANNA HEAD HOMESTEAD Marker # 47 Location: From Alvarado, take SH 67 west 2 miles, then take county road 810 north 0.8 mile City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1993 Marker Text: Alanson Asbury (A. A.) Head (1843-1925) and his wife, Susanna Alabama Bethany (1843-1924) built a two-story residence here about 1877. Over the years A. A. and Susanna, known as Uncle Ben and Aunt Sukie, terraced about 300 acres here on which they cultivated various orchards, vineyards, and berry patches. Their farm prospered and in 1903 they donated two acres across the road from their home for the building of the Head Chapel Methodist Church. In 1908 the Heads donated an adjoining 2 acres to establish the Bethany Rest Cemetery, where they were later buried side by side. (1993) JOHNSON COUNTY Marker # 2830 Location: 2nd and Hillsboro Streets, Cleburne City Park City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1936 Marker Text: Named for Middleton T. Johnson (1810-1866), native of South Carolina, for 7 terms an Alabama legislator, a leading Texan after 1840. Served in 9th Texas Legislature; in Texas Rangers, Mexican War, Civil War. County created and organized 1854, from land earlier in counties of Ellis, Hill and Navarro. First county seat, Wardville, 1854-1856. Second was Buchanan, 1856-1867. Camp Henderson, at famous springs 3.5 miles southeast of Buchanan, a recruiting place in county during Civil War, in 1867 was made county seat and renamed in honor of a Confederate General Patrick Cleburne. JOHNSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE Marker # 2831 Location: Courthouse Square, Hwy 171-174 City: Cleburne Marker Only JOHNSON COUNTY PIONEERS AND OLD SETTLERS REUNION Marker # 2832 Location: 1 Reunion Drive City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Text: One of the largest events of its kind in Texas, the Johnson County Pioneers and Old Settlers Reunion traces its beginnings to 1892, when local farmer and newspaper correspondent John James (1852-1927) proposed the idea to some of his neighbors. Although met with initial rejection, James, together with some fellow newspaper writers, organized a picnic at Elm Grove in June 1893. Those in attendance voted to form an organization to oversee plans for an annual reunion. The first official Johnson County Pioneers and Old Settlers Reunion was held July 27-28, 1893, at Gathings Park northeast of Cleburne, with more than 2,000 people in attendance. Subsequent reunions were held in Alvarado, Grandview, Venus, and Cleburne, until the organization purchased land at this site for a permanent reunion campground. The first pavilion, built here in 1906, was later destroyed in a tornado, and the second one burned in 1965. It was replaced by a larger structure in 1966. Through the years, the reunion has grown to attract more than ten thousand participants to such events as carnivals; parades; queen, baby, and fiddle contests; and musical concerts. It has evolved into one of the area's most significant cultural institutions. JOHNSON, MIDDLETON T., COLONEL; CLEBURNE, PATRICK R., GENERAL Marker # 2837 Location: Courthouse Square, Highway 174-171 City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1963 Marker Text: County named for Texas Confederate-- Colonel Middleton T. Johnson, 1810-1866 South Carolinian; Legislator Alabama came to Texas 1840. Member Republic of Texas Congress. Cavalryman in U.S. War with Mexico. Texas Ranger surveyor of early railroads. As colonel raised 14th Texas Cavalry regiment, taking them to Little Rock 1862 for induction C.S.A. service. Buried Mill Creek Cemetery, Arlington, Texas. Johnson County voted 500-50 for secession 1861. Soon raised 9 companies for C.S.A. service. 12th Texas Cavalry regt. which served in Arkansas, Louisiana, on Texas coast to prevent invasion Texas. Remaining eligible men western part county placed in state militia late 1863 to protect frontier. City named for Confederate-- General Patrick R. Cleburne 1828-1864 Born near Cork, Ireland came to U.S. 1849. Drug clerk in Ohio, became lawyer in Arkansas. Recruited 1st Arkansas Regt. for Confederacy. Elected colonel. Promoted brigadier general March 1862, made major general Dec. 1862. Rapidly earned reputation as a superb combat officer on numerous fields with army of Tennessee Eight. Texas regiments of Granbury's Brigade were under Cleburne, and in 1864 Atlanta campaign he said, "The piles of the (Union) dead were silent but sufficient eulogy upon Granbury and his noble Texans. "On Nov. 30, 1864 Cleburne, a savage fighter, met death six paces from the Federal lines in battle Franklin, Tenn. Became known as "Stonewall Jackson of the West." Erected by the State of Teas 1963. LITTLE OLD HOUSE Marker # 3099 Location: 409 North Posffalo Street City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1965 Marker Text: Built about time town was started, 1867. In "water-tote" distance of famous Cleburne spring. Long the home of Aunt Pat Doty, sister of W. F. Featherstone, president of noted early day school, Cleburne Male and Female Institute. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, 1965 MARKET SQUARE Marker # 3218 Location: On Main Street, between Harrell and Shaffer Streets City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1967 Marker Text: Established 1898 when 11 men, not waiting for an expenditure of public money, donated this land to the county "forever". Carries on tradition of "First Monday" (day used for trading in 1890s). Still used for trade of cattle, produce, and gossip among Johnson countians. MENEFEE REUNION Marker # 3331 Location: Grounds of First Street Bank City: Rio Vista Marker Erected: 1966 Marker Text: Yearly gathering of heirs of colonists entering America 1623. Wm. L. Menefee, ancestor of this branch of the family, migrated to Texas 1830; signed Declaration of Independence 1836; was on the commission selecting Capital site at present-day Austin. He served 6 terms in Congress of Republic of Texas, one term in the State Legislature. His sons, H. F. and the Rev. W. O. Menefee, were early settlers in Johnson County. The family has produced many jurists, soldiers, political leaders, ministers. The reunion, started in 1890, has been held here since 1891. METHODISM IN JOSHUA Marker # 3351 Location: Corner Main Street and 4th Street City: Joshua Marker Erected: 1983 Marker Text: Prior to the establishment of Joshua as a railroad town in 1881, Methodists in the area worshiped at the Caddo Grove and Marystown communities. A Methodist church was organized in Joshua in 1883 with assistance from the Marystown church. Constituted as part of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, the congregation is now known as the First United Methodist Church of Joshua. The fellowship has actively supported community affairs and missionary efforts. Its ties to earlier area Methodist congregations have made the Joshua church an important link in Johnson County history. MYERS CEMETERY Marker # 11966 Location: 2 miles N of Alvarado on CR 600 City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 1999 Marker Text: Samuel Houston Myers (1810-1874) and his wife Martha "Patsy" Wallace Myers came to Texas with their six children in 1851. Patsy Myers died in 1853; Sam Houston married Cynthia Ann Bales in 1854; she bore 5 children and died in 1865. Sam married Mary Hunter in 1866. The first recorded burial in this cemetery on the family farm occurred in 1873 with the death of a granddaughter, Mary Myers. Other early graves include those of Sam Houston Myers, a traveler named John A. Mullen who drowned in Quil Miller Creek in 1875, and an ex-slave known as "Aunt Rachel," twenty-one-year-old Sam Houston Myers, Jr. was hanged in 1880 for the murder of his stepmother Mary. His brother-in-law, James Bowden, later confessed to the crime. (1999) SITE OF NORMAN SPRINGS & NORMAN GROVE Marker # 12354 Location: 6921 US 67 at IH-35 City: Alvarado Marker Erected: 2000 Marker Text: William Balch (1804-1870) claimed land around this site as a member of the Peters Colony in 1849. When he returned with his family in 1851, they found a group of Caddo Indians camping on one side of the springs. The Balch family built their cabin on the other side and lived peaceably with their neighbors. Other Caddo were living in the area that became Alvarado. Like the new settlers, they were attracted by the abundance of fresh water. The springs were located on the road from Birdville and Fort Worth to Hillsboro, Waco, Ft. Graham and other destinations. William Balch founded the town of Alvarado in 1854 and the family moved into town. Joe (1798-1882) and Sarah (1797-1897) Shaw and their family settled here and farmed the land. Joe Shaw was a three-term county sheriff. With settlers coming in increasing numbers, the Caddo Indians moved to the Oklahoma territory or further west, and by 1860 the area was dominated by new settlers. Tennessee native Lafayette Norman (1826-1904), veteran of the U. S. war with Mexico and later the Confederate Army, purchased 245 acres around this site with his third wife Julia In 1872. The Normans supplied thirsty and weary travelers with access to their spring; the site became known as Norman Springs and Norman Grove. A seven-year drought in the 1930s and a five-year drought in the 1950s significantly reduced the water table in this region. Norman Springs slowly became little more than a muddy patch. By the dawn of the 21st century, the once free-flowing spring that provided priceless fresh water to the early Indians and pioneer settlers of the Johnson County frontier was marked only by a willow tree. (2000) RIGGS PENNINGTON HOME Marker # 3983 Location: Highway 171, Hillsboro Highway, at Cleburne City Limits (east side of street) City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1965 Marker Text: Heart pine and cypress wood, square nails. Carpenters' wages were $87, a cow and a horse. Pennington (1845-1921), born in the Republic of Texas, was a Confederate soldier, farmer, banker, business man. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965 PICNIC GROUNDS Marker # 4857 Location: 201 North Caddo Street (in front of Carnegie Library) City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1966 Marker Text: Had wood, water. Was used after 1854 start of Camp Henderson (named for land owner-townsite donor) for decisive public meetings. In 1867 Camp Henderson became county seat. Then men at 4th of July picnic here named town "Cleburne", for Civil War commander of many local veterans. SITE OF RED OAK ACADEMY Marker # 4878 Location: Private property, from Burleson take Academy Hill 2 miles west - marker is in a backyard and fenced in City: Burleson vicinity Marker Erected: 1968 Marker Text: An early Texas college, founded near this site (at that time part of Brushy Mound), 1879; re-established as Alta Vista College, 1885. Transferred in 1893 to Presbyterian church, it was renamed Red Oak Academy and inspired name for this section: "Academy Hill". The school closed in 1899. RENFRO-CLARK HOUSE Marker # 4244 Location: 128 North Clark Street City: Burleson Marker Erected: 1970 Marker Text: Home of heirs of donor of the Burleson townsite. By providing land for the M.K.T. Railroad line, Henry C. Renfro (deceased 1885) won right to name town for his friend, Dr. Rufus Burleson, a pioneer preacher, president of Waco College (1861-86) and Baylor University (1851-61; 1886-97). This was the first house in the Clark addition, and was built in 1894 by Mrs. Henry C. Renfro and her only daughter, Margaret Annette Baker Clark. RIO VISTA Marker # 4273 Location: Pavilon Square City: Rio Vista Marker Erected: 1985 Marker Text: Located in an area of Johnson County's earliest settlement, Rio Vista was founded on the railroad in 1885. The townsite, which affords views of both Nolan River and Mustang Creek, was given the spanish name for "River View". The post office that was established in Rio Vista in 1885 was discontinued in 1889, but was reinstated in 1890. By 1896, the community boasted 175 residents, eight stores, a lumber yard, steam gin, and a steam corn sheller. Rio Vista's public school system also began that year. Telephone lines were installed during the early years of the 20th century, when three passenger trains were arriving daily at the depot. The thriving economy was shattered, however, by a fire in 1914 that destroyed 24 buildings. Many of the businesses were hurt, and the rebuilding process was slow. Cotton sustained the economy during that time, and dairy farming later became important. Just as the coming of the railroad had initiated growth in Rio Vista during the 1880s, the building of State Highway 174 through town in the 1950s brought a boost to the economy. From its beginnings as a railroad community, Rio Vista has been an important part of Johnson County history. LOWELL SMITH HOME Marker # 3077 Location: From Rio Vista, take FM 916 W 2 mile: Private Property City: Rio Vista Marker Erected: 1965 Marker Text: Of pine and poplar lumber and other materials from an 1850 house acquired by John Wesley Smith, Civil War veteran and banker who came to Johnson County in 1868. Built this home 1887. Used square iron nails. PIONEER TEXAS TELEPHONES Marker # 4035 Location: 111 West Robinson City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1967 Marker Text: The first telephones in Texas, in 1878, connected the "Galveston News" with the home of its publisher, Col. A. H. Belo. Galveston also had the first exchange, 1879, and first long-distance line, which ran to Houston, in 1883. Cleburne phone service began 1882 when Automatic Telephone Company opened. In 1897 Southwestern Telegraph and Telephone Company (which later joined Bell System) started another firm. It built city's first long distance line, 12 miles to Alvarado junction. Monthly rates were $2 to $3. About 1904, the Automatic Telephone Company installed some of first dial phones in U.S.- fifteen years before they were used successfully elsewhere. But in 1912, problems forced the Automatic Telephone Company to close. Near turn of century, rural areas often used barbed wire fences for phone lines. Even urban homes shared party lines, each one having its special "ring". Circuits joined a main switchboard manned by one operator "central"--- the hub of local news. "Central" always knew where to find town doctor and was a clearing house for funeral plans. The unemployed could ask her who needed workers; she advertised by ringing all phones to read announcements. Many small towns regretted losing her services when dial phones came into use. By 1966, Texas had 4,474,722 telephones, 134 companies. Incise in base: Early travel, transportation and communication series erected by the Moody Foundation. UNION HILL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH AND CEMETERY Marker # 5594 Location: From Joshua, take FM 917 E about 2.2 miles City: Joshua Marker Erected: 1994 Marker Text: Settlement in this area began in the early 1850s. By the 1870s Union Hill had developed into a small rural community of families primarily engaged in cotton farming. In 1879 a Presbyterian congregation was organized in Union Hill through the efforts of the Rev. J. S. Davenport. The congregation erected a one-room church building at this site in 1880. In 1882 W. P. and Miley Johnson deeded five acres here to Union Hill Church trustees T. E. Wilshire, C. G. Witherspoon, and J. L. Shipley for church and cemetery purposes. The first recorded burial was that of Margaret Beatty on February 4, 1883. Among those buried here are area pioneers and their descendants and several veterans of the Civil War. A tabernacle was built in 1925 and in 1938 the graveyard was improved with the building of a fence with an arched gateway. A cemetery association was formed in 1983 and in 1992 a new tabernacle was constructed. Gatherings on December 24th for a Christmas Eve program and in June for a picnic are two special activities initiated by the congregation in the 1890s which have become traditional annual events. The church and cemetery continue to provide spiritual guidance and burial sites for the community. SITE OF WARDVILLE Marker # 12674 Location: On US 67, 50 yards W of Cleburne city limits City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1972 Marker Text: (1/4 mile south of marker) First county seat of Johnson County, chosen in Aug. 1855, and located on an 80-acre donation from William O'Neal. Named for Thomas William Ward (1807-72), a Republic of Texas soldier and second commissioner of General Land Office of Texas. The first courthouse, 16 feet square, was built by O'Neal of logs overlaid with clapboards, at cost of $49. When Wardville was found to violate Texas constitution's requirement that a county seat by within 5 miles of center of county, it was abandoned (1856). Ironically, later county line changes made it near the center. WATTS CHAPEL METHODIST CHURCH AND CEMETERY Marker # 5726 Location: From Cleburne take SH 4 southeast about 5 miles City: Cleburne Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Text: The rural Watts Chapel community is named for the family of Nathaniel Franklin Watts (1851-1919), who settled in this area of Johnson County in 1872. Watts married Rachel Ann Bennett in 1875, and they bought a small farm near this site. They acquired additional acreage over the years and operated a cotton gin for farmers in the region. Mr. Watts later served as a Johnson County commissioner. Nathaniel and Rachel Watts were the parents of twelve children, five of whom died at an early age. The Watts Chapel Cemetery began as a family burial ground in 1879, when their infant daughter, Sallie, died and was buried on the family farm. Over the years other family members also were interred here, as were friends and neighbors in the community. IN 1892 the Watts family deeded three acres of land to the Methodist church. The Rev. B. F. Badget served as first pastor of the new congregation, which was named Watts Chapel in honor of its benefactors. The congregation continues to be an active part of the community and hosts an annual homecoming celebration. Both the church and the cemetery reflect the pioneer heritage of rural Johnson County. WILKINSON FAMILY CEMETERY Marker # 5812 Location: From Grandview, take US 81 N and 4 miles, then take County Road E0.75 mile City: Grandview Marker Erected: 1992 Marker Text: Henry and Sarah Ann (Weldon) Wilkinson and their seven children left their former home in Mississippi in November 1866 to travel to Texas. Their journey in two ox-drawn wagons lasted 62 days, and they settled near this site in January 1867. The family rented land upon their arrival, and in 1869 purchased 762 acres on which they established a farm. They built a small log home and became respected leaders in their small rural community, initially named Hugh in honor of a Wilkinson grandson. The community's name later was changed to Antioch. Henry Wilkinson died on May 26, 1879, as a result of a farming accident. He was buried near his home in a grove of trees which became known as the Wilkinson Family Cemetery. His wife Sarah Ann (d. 1901) and sons John Q. A. (d. 1879) and Virgil A. (d. 1881) also were buried in the family graveyard, as were a number of other relatives and descendants. The land surrounding the cemetery remained in the Wilkinson family until 1938. The half-acre site is maintained by Wilkinson descendants, many of whom still reside in this area of Johnson County.