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After the establishment of Hallsville in 1869 by railroad developers, land was secured here for a cemetery. In 1875 the James F. Taylor Masonic Lodge No. 169 acquired from the railroad (by then named the Texas & Pacific) three acres of land near the rail line and dedicated it as a community burial ground. The earliest marked burial is that of Mrs. G. C. Russell in 1875, taking place while the land transaction was in progress. Some burials from the older communities of Ash Springs (2 mi. NE) and Fort Crawford (2 mi. SW) were transferred here, as most of their settlers moved to Hallsville and the railhead. Since the 1920s cemetery cleaning days during May served as community gatherings. Children were encouraged to take part and learn about their ancestors while helping to maintain family plots. Politicians spoke to the crowds before spring primary elections, and veterans were honored on war memorial days. A cemetery association was formed in 1947 to ensure perpetual care and acquire more land. Several additions were made through the generosity of the railroad. Formal entrance gates, landscaping and other improvements have been sponsored by the association. Texas Sesquicentennial 1836 - 1986 |
