History of Cleburne Memorial Park

Most records regarding the origins of Cleburne Memorial Cemetery have been lost. Therefore, trying to write a history of the cemetery was difficult. The only real indication of its date is in the grave of Greg Wren born August 14, 1813, and died June 25, 1859. His grave can be found on Block 41 Lot 7. What documented records could be found indicated that it was originally known simply as the “city cemetery”. Then when a Confederate Park adjoining the cemetery was established, both the park and the cemetery became known as Confederate Memorial Park.

The oldest document found is a transfer of deed of two acres of land adjoining the city cemetery. This took place on December 14, 1894. The land was originally owned by C. A. Kouns and his wife Ann. It was purchased by the representatives of Pat Cleburne Camp Number 88 United Confederate Veterans; E. M Heath; J. W. Dalton; J. P. Berry; O. T. Plummer; and. T. J. Hooker. At that time the land was designated as a park for the Confederate soldiers and their descendants. As time passed, the land was incorporated into the city cemetery, hosting the many confederate soldiers who migrated to Johnson County after the Civil War and died here.

As a matter of fact, so many Civil War Veterans, mostly Confederate and a few Union soldiers, settled and died here that by 1921 the decision to set out a memorial had been made. Funds were raised to rebuild the cemetery into the shape of a Confederate Flag. The photo featured in this book is of the monument which was raised in their honor. It also represents what used to be the front gate to the cemetery. The site of the monument is on Block 72 in the South West lot facing south west.

Anyone who drives the grounds of the Cleburne Memorial Cemetery can see how many Civil War Veterans found their resting place there. The Sons of the Confederate Veterans maintain the markers and proudly place respective flags by the specially designed headstones of Veterans, Confederate and Union alike.

Other graves represent the “Founding Fathers”. Taking a drive around Cleburne will reflect many of the same names on street signs as those on monuments in Cleburne Memorial Cemetery. Their legacy lives on in a thriving community.

Transcribed by Donna Brand.