Texas Historical Marker #04263
Richland Cemetery. Jesse S. and Mary Ann Thomas brought their family to Texas from Georgia in 1858, settling first in Rusk and Smith counties. They relocated to this area in 1873 and purchased land along Richland Creek. In 1883 they deeded three acres of land for a community cemetery. The oldest documented grave here is that of Mary E. McCleskey (1826-1883). Others interred in the graveyard include area pioneers; five generations of the Thomas family; and veterans of the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. #4263
?, Mertens, TX, United States
Texas Historical Marker #03349
Mertens Baptist Church. On June 14, 1884, a small group of Baptists, led by W. J. Priddy, D. P. Sanders, and J. C. Osborne, met to organize a Baptist church. Originally known as Richland Baptist Church, the congregation worshiped in the Richland School until 1892, when they moved a few miles northwest to the town of Mertens. Now known as Mertens Baptist Church, the membership has grown and expanded its facilities over the years. Throughout its history the congregation has provided significant service and leadership to the residents of this part of Hill County. #3349
?, Mertens, TX, United States