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Col. Abraham “Abe” Harris October 21, 1824 - March 28, 1915 Abraham "Abe" Harris , Mexican War veteran, Confederate military officer, and president of the Texas Association of Mexican War Veterans, was born on October 21, 1824, in England. In 1829, when he was five, Abe and his family immigrated to the United States and settled in New York. Harris was employed as a cabinetmaker during the 1840’s until, at the age of 22, he left his new hometown and enlisted in the United States Army at Utica, New York. He mustered at Governor's Island, New York, as a sergeant and was placed in Company F of the Eighth United States Infantry. From there, his unit left for Vera Cruz, Mexico, to serve during the Mexican War. Following the Mexican War, Harris served as sergeant major to Maj. Ripley A. Arnold (also buried at Pioneers Rest Cemetery) of the Second Dragoons. They were dispatched to North Texas to establish a military post in order to protect the territory from Native American advances. Because of his background in cabinetry, Harris helped build the barracks and officers’ headquarters for the newly established Army post known as Fort Worth. On January 20, 1852, Harris's term of military service came to a close, and he was formally discharged at Fort Worth. He remained in the Fort Worth area. The abandoned buildings of the camp were used as stores and homes by settlers and former soldiers that remained in the area, including Harris. From this outcropping of abandoned military buildings, the city of Fort Worth would emerge. During the 1850s, while Harris lived in Tarrant County, he met and married Margaret Conner and the couple had five children—four boys and one girl. However, Margaret died on February 23, 1861. With the onset of the Civil War, Harris enrolled in the Confederate Army on January 26, 1862, in Tarrant County. He was commissioned as a first lieutenant and was in the The Fourteenth Texas Cavalry. The Fourteenth saw action at Murfreesboro, Vicksburg, Chickamauga, Atlanta, and Nashville. While serving in Georgia, Harris remarried on August 23, 1863, to Sally Lavina Logan. The couple had one child. On May 9, 1865, Lieutenant Colonel Harris surrendered his command at Meridian, Mississippi. By 1880 Harris had returned to Tarrant County. He continued to practice his craft in cabinetry and in 1888 purchased land in Arlington, though Fort Worth remained his primary residence.¹ On March 28,1915, Abraham Harris passed away in Fort Worth, Texas, the city he helped establish. He was buried in his Confederate uniform² with the American flag that had flown over his porch for over 50 years.³ His funeral procession was lined by veterans from all generations, and he was buried with military honors.⁴ __________________________ [1] Matthew K. Hamilton, “Harris, Abraham,” Handbook of Texas Online, accessed September 28, 2024, https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/harris-abraham . [2] “Veterans Form Guard of Honor at Funeral of Col. Abe Harris.” Fort Worth Star-Telegram, vol. XXXV, no. 65, 29 Mar. 1915, p. Page Four. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current : Accessed 28 September 2024. [3] “Military Funeral for Col. Abe Harris,” Fort Worth Record-Telegram, March 30, 1915, FindAGrave.com : Accessed September 28, 2024. [4] Veterans, 1915. Block 3, Lot 16 [Explore the Map ]

Father William Bonaparte “Bony” Tucker Sr. October 5, 1824 - April 8, 1900 William Bonaparte “Bony” Tucker was born in Kentucky on October 5, 1824. In 1848, William married Mahala Ann Myers. In 1850 they were living in Casey County, Kentucky. Bony Sr. was a farmer, a skill he learned from his father. By 1853, the same year the Army abandoned Fort Worth, the couple moved to Texas to settle in what became known as Jarvis Heights in historic Northside Fort Worth. Bony Sr. quickly established himself in the area. In 1854 he was one of the founders of the new Masonic Temple. In 1856, he shifted careers from farming to politics when he was elected County Sheriff¹ (he was just the third person to hold the position²). By 1858, he was elected District Clerk. Later he was elected County Judge, but unfortunately had to resign the position due to a legal technicality in 1867. This ended his political aspirations. At the age of 43, he switched careers again and focused his energy on real estate as he anticipated the railroad expansion coming to Fort Worth. He purchased large tracts of land, primarily in the south end of the city. In 1870, Bony Sr. also built a new homestead on the present day “Tucker Hill,” which was the first home to be built in what came to be known as the Historic Southside³ – thus he became known as the “Father of the Southside.”⁴ Today, the intersection of E. Tucker St. (named for him) and Main St. is near the location of his original home which was razed in 1907. In 1876, Bony Sr. was one of the influential people of Fort Worth that helped bring the railroad and streetcars to the city. Since his home sat high on a hill, he was able to watch the railroad construction from the porch of his home. Bony Sr. died on April 8, 1900 in Fort Worth, Texas. Bony Sr. is buried in Pioneers Rest Cemetery alongside his wife Mahala and 5 of their 6 children.⁵ Sons Rowan Hardin Tucker Sr. October 1, 1855 - June 6, 1920 William Bonaparte “Bony” Tucker Jr. September 5, 1861 - November 8, 1887 Rowan Hardin Tucker , the first son born to William and Mahala (née Myers) Tucker, was born on October 1, 1855 in Fort Worth, Texas. At the beginning of the American Civil War, the Tuckers had their second son on September 5, 1861, in Fort Worth, Texas named William Bonaparte “Bony” Tucker Jr. The boys grew up with four sisters – at first on the Historic Northside and later in the homestead built by their father located on “Tucker Hill” on the edge of the Historic Southside of Fort Worth. In 1878, Rowan followed his father’s footsteps and began a career in Law Enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff. By 1885, both Rowan and brother Bony Jr. held the title of Deputy Sheriff. In early 1886, both brothers acted as guards when railroad employees across Texas and many other states went on strike.⁶ The effect of the strike was felt all over town and the country and tensions were high. With the threat of vandalism and loitering on the tracks by railroad employees and sympathizers, the Sheriff ordered his deputy officers to block the strikers and to break up crowds. On April 3, 1886, both brothers took part in what would be known as Fort Worth’s “Battle of Buttermilk Junction” when striking union rail workers ambushed a heavily guarded train engine the railroad was trying to move.⁷ By the summer of 1887, Bony Jr. decided to take a job as a guard for the Northbound Sante Fe railroad. The first stop after leaving Fort Worth was Gainesville, Texas. It was at this stop that Bony Jr. began to befriend a local brothel owner named Hazel Creeland. As the months went on, their presence was noticed in Gainesville. Their companionship became on the radar of the local authorities. On November 8, 1887, a police officer shot Bony Jr. on the streets of Gainesville near the present-day courthouse after he refused to pay a fine for riding with a prostitute. Bony Jr.’s body was returned to Fort Worth. Since he was a Volunteer Fireman in Fort Worth, he was given a formal burial by his fellow fireman. He was only 26 years old at the time of his death. Unlike his brother, Rowan remained in Fort Worth. He left behind his career in law enforcement in 1888, just a year after the death of his brother and became a claim agent for the Fort Worth & Denver City Railroad. He held this position for the rest of his life. He also was elected to the City Council and represented the Fifth Ward on the Southside for four terms.⁸ He was a Mason and was a member of the Blue Lodge No. 148. On June 6, 1920, Rowan passed away at his home on “Tucker Hill” at the age of 65. He left behind his wife Louise (née Archer) Tucker along with two children.⁹ Rowan is buried in the Tucker family plot in Pioneers Rest alongside his parents, several siblings, a daughter named Ethel (who died young), and his wife, Louise. __________________________ [1] “Bony Tucker: History at the Top of the Hill (Wheeze).” Hometown by Handlebar, 16 Jul 2022; https://hometownbyhandlebar.com/?p=29355 : accessed 12 Nov 2024. [2] “Ol’Bony’s Boys: The Long and Short of It.” Hometown by Handlebar, 7 Oct 2021; https://hometownbyhandlebar.com/?p=36121 : accessed 12 Nov 2024. [3] Bony, 2022. [4] Ol’Bony’s, 2021. [5] Bony, 2022. [6] Ol’Bony’s, 2021. [7] “Buttermilk and Blood (Part 1): ‘I’ll Kill the First Man Who Touches This Engine’.” Hometown by Handlebar, 3 Apr 2022; https://hometownbyhandlebar.com/?p=6874 : accessed 12 Nov 2024. [8] Ol’Bony’s, 2021. [9] “Rowan Hardin Tucker.” Find a Grave, Memorial ID# 18921253, 13 Apr 2007; https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/18921253/rowan-hardin-tucker : accessed 12 Nov 2024. Block 3, Lot 73 [Explore the Map ]

Jesse Shenton Zane-Cetti January 21, 1844 - February 8, 1922 Jesse Shenton Zane-Cetti was born on January 21, 1844 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to William and Harriet Zane. After the death of his father in 1853, his mother Harriet remarried to Andrew Cetti. Out of respect for both his father and step-father, Jesse decided to hyphenate his last name to create the unusual surname of Zane-Cetti. By the age of 15, Jesse was sent to Germany to study civil engineering. After graduation, he returned to the United States in 1870 and worked for the government. With his new job, he became acquainted with Gen. Grenville Dodge, a pioneer in railroad expansion in the south. Jesse went to work for Gen. Dodge where he secured a job working with the Corp of Engineers in Alabama. As the railroad expanded westward, Jesse was sent to Texas to survey land spanning all the way to El Paso. On May 9, 1873, “Black Friday” occurred ensuing what would become known as the “Panic of 1873.” As the United States economy was in turmoil, the railroad ceased work and Jesse found himself unemployed and in Fort Worth. With limited options, Jesse decided to stay in Fort Worth as he felt the “little town” was very inviting. Quickly, Jesse began to make connections with civic leaders in town and he reinvented himself by opening a real estate and insurance office. Since his early days with the railroad, Jesse had been corresponding with Emma Hoeflin, a love interest he met back in Germany. After 7 years of writing, and with his new found stability in Fort Worth, Emma agreed to come to Texas.¹ The two were married in 1874 in New Orleans, Louisiana.² The couple would have 7 children but only 4 would survive to adulthood. All of the children were taught to be bilingual in German and English. Also in 1874, Fort Worth was incorporated and officially became a city. Jesse was tasked as being the first City Engineer and created the city street layout. Jesse was instrumental in convincing the railroad to complete the tracks to Fort Worth in 1876. It is said that as the first train engine rolled into Fort Worth and blew its whistle, Jesse’s first child was born at that very moment. By the 1880’s, Zane-Cetti was a top real estate developer and was held to high esteem. When Anheuser-Busch built their first brewery in Texas, Jesse became very interested in bringing a brewery to Fort Worth.³ In 1890, Zane-Cetti along with 3 others, declared the water of Fort Worth to be of fine quality for brewing and they began building the Texas Brewing Company in what was known as “Hell’s Half Acre.” The brewery was located at the site of the present day Fort Worth Central Station. Jesse was the President of the brewery. By 1907, the brewery claimed to be the largest in Texas, creating 250,000 barrels of beer a year, Unfortunately in 1918, the brewery would shutter its doors as the temperance movement was taking hold and talks of prohibition were on the horizon.⁴ Although the brewery closed, the facility transitioned into the Texas Ice & Refrigeration Company and Jesse was yet again the President. Zane-Cetti was eager to bring music to Fort Worth. With his real estate connections, he provided a building that became the first music hall in the city. Later the Fort Worth Symphony would be born of this creation. Later in life, Jesse would help provide capital that would bring street cars to Downtown. He was also a member of the Freemasons where he was a Grand Master of his Masonic Lodge. On February 8, 1922, Jesse passed away at the age of 78. He was described as “immaculately-dressed, reliable, capable, and a modest man.”⁵ His funeral was held in the mansion he built in 1910 at 500 S. Adams.⁶ The home was razed in 1967.⁷ Jesse is buried in a large family plot at Pioneers Rest Cemetery next to his wife, mother, and 6 children. __________________________ [1] Pruitt, Betty. “Zane-Cetti, Civic Leader,” The Junior Historian, , Volume 16, Number 3, December 1955, Pg 16. Texas State Historical Association ; Austin, Texas. Accessed 26 Sept 2023 ; https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth391438/m1/18 . [2] “Thenton Zane Cette [SIC],” New Orleans, Louisiana, Marriage Records Index, 1831-1964, Vol 4, Pg 597. Ancestry.com. Accessed 26 Sept 2023 ; https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryuicontent/view/11853:6500?ssrc=pt&tid=32371210&pid=242036084208 . [3] Pruitt, 1955, Pgs 16-17. [4] “Texas Brewing Company Gave Cowtown Very Near Beer.” Hometown by Handlebar, 3 Sept 2019. Accessed 26 Sept 2023; https://hometownbyhandlebar.com/?p=4348 . [5] Pruitt, 1955, Pgs.17-18. [6] “Body of Zane-Cetti in Pioneers’ Rest.” Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Home Edition ed., vol. XLII, no. 8, 9 Feb. 1922, p. 6. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current , Accessed 26 Sept 2023. [7] "Jesse Shenton Zane-Cetti mansion to be torn down, 500 South Adams Street, Fort Worth, Texas." Fort Worth Star-Telegram Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery. 1967. Accessed 26 Sept 26, 2023 ; https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/20059989 . Block 3, Lot 3 [Explore the Map ]

The Sexton’s Cottage also known as a tool house, was constructed around 1922. The Greene family is cited as contributing to the construction of the structure. The wood-framed stucco-covered building was designed in the Classical Revival style and features a front gabled roof and unadorned pediment. A hood over the door also features a Greek key design and is supported by scrolled brackets. Curving cast stone balustrades extend from its north and south sides. For over 50 years, the Sexton’s cottage was the only tool house on the property, until the addition for a larger green structure near the southwest corner of the cemetery in the 1980’s. __________________________ [1] Kline, Susan. “National Register of Historic Places Registration Form,” United States Department of Interior, 6 Dec 2020, pgs 7, 11, 13. Accessed 2 Oct 2023 ; https://fortworthreport.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/National-Register-Application-for-Pioneers-Rest.pdf

Clara Peak Walden January 4, 1854 - October 13, 1914 Clara Peak Walden , early pioneer of Fort Worth education, was the first born child of Dr. Carroll Peak and Mrs. Florence Peak on January 4, 1854, in Fort Worth. She came into the world in one of the abandoned military post buildings. Growing up, Clara had access to the impressive personal library of her father, and this helped fuel her early desire to become an educator. Promident resident, R.L. Paschal reflected on Clara’s unique childhood by stating “Colonel John Peter Smith, who lived eight years in the Peak home, was a constant help and inspiration in her study of Latin, Greek, and higher mathematics. At this time she began the study of Hebrew and later read the Old Testament in that language.” During her early years, schools in Fort Worth were all private institutions. Clara and her brother Howard attended the “Fort Worth High School,” which was located inside the Masonic Lodge at the corner of Jones and Belknap. Clara began her teaching career at this location and remained until its closure in 1869. She was only 15 years old at the time of the closure, and her youthful age shows her advanced educational aptitude. At the age of 16, in 1870, Clara married LeGrande Walden who was a farmer but became a school teacher. The couple taught for a couple of years in country and rural schools. In 1871, Clara gave birth to their first child named Florence. A second child was born in 1873 named Lucile. Sadly, just 16 days apart, both of her children would pass away in August of 1873. The couple would have no additional children. The decade would close with the death of her husband, leaving her a young widow. Around 1872, Clara joined the faculty at The Fort Worth School, which was established by brothers Addison and Randolph Clark. This school would later become the modern day Texas Christian University (TCU). She taught there until late 1873 when the school relocated outside of the Fort Worth area. Clara continued to work in local schools and The Fort Worth Standard (1876) called Mrs. Walden “a lady of superior intellectual endowments, first rate literary qualifications, and large experience as a teacher.” By age 21, Clara and Miss E. R. Arnold established the Arnold-Walden Institute, originally located in the First Christian Church building and later to its own building. The Arnold-Walden Institute later merged with the Fort Worth public school system and became a ward school; it stood until 1939.¹ By 1894, Clara retired from teaching. On October 13, 1914, after being released from the hospital that day, Clara was struck and killed by an automobile outside of the home where she lived with her mother. She was 60 years old.² Clara is buried in the Peak Family plot with her parents, siblings and children. __________________________ [1] Clara Peak Walden: A Life in Education,” Hometown by Handlebar, 4 Jan 2021; https://hometownbyhandlebar.com/?p=32953 : accessed 4 Oct 2024. [2] "Chauffeur Whose Auto Killed Women Released…" Fort Worth Star-Telegram, vol. XXXIV, no. 267, 14 Oct. 1914, p. Page 13. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current : accessed 4 Oct. 2024. Block 3, Lot 7 [Explore the Map ]

Dr. Carroll Marion Peak November 13, 1828 - February 27, 1885 Dr. Carroll Marion Peak was born in Warsaw, Kentucky on November 13, 1828 to parents Jefferson and Martha Malvina Peak. At the age of 19, he began an apprenticeship studying medicine. He would later attend the University of Louisville where he would earn his medical degree in 1851.¹ He married Florence Chalfant on April 26, 1853 in Madison, Indiana. In that same year, the young Doctor was persuaded to move to Fort Worth, Texas to establish his practice. Their first home was a log cabin made from cottonwood trees. He is noted as being the first physician of Fort Worth, which was much needed as the city was growing quickly. With youth on his side, he committed himself to providing medical care to anyone within a 30 mile radius of Fort Worth. “The weather was never too bad nor way too perilous for him to go to those who needed him, may they be rich or poor, black, white or red.”² In 1855, Carroll and his wife founded the First Christian Church inside their home. The church is still operational today and is the oldest continuously operating church established in Fort Worth.³ By 1856, Dr. Peak built a larger home in Downtown Fort Worth near the present day historic Courthouse. Connected to their home was a drug store, where Dr. Peak sold anything from ointments and medications to pocket knives and sides of beef. His establishment was just the second mercantile established in Fort Worth. When the civil war started, Dr. Peak volunteered and helped recruit others to join the Volunteer Texas Cavalry for the Confederate Army. He would spend his service time in Louisiana as a surgeon. After the war, Dr. Peak returned home but found much of the landscape of the city had changed. Along with other prominent men in town, the decision was made that they would encourage the railroad to come through Fort Worth to help stimulate the economic growth of the city. Dr. Peak personally provided $2,250 for the cause and the railroad came to town as they had wished. Dr. Peak remained active in civic matters his entire life. Dr. Peak was a lifelong member of the Democratic Party and in 1880 he accomplished one of his long standing goals: to be a delegate for the Democratic National Convention held in Cincinnati. He also served on the City Council and did so much for the area schools he was known as “the father of the Fort Worth Public School System.” Dr. Peak was a dedicated advocate for the education of African Americans. In 1882, as the first president of the Fort Worth school board, he established the city’s first free public secondary school for African American students, originally named the East Ninth Street Colored School.⁴ In 1921, the school was renamed I.M. Terrell High School in honor of its former principal. Today, Carroll Peak Elementary, located at 1201 E. Jefferson St., stands as a tribute to Dr. Peak's contributions to education and his commitment to advancing opportunities for all students.⁵ Carroll and his wife Florence had four children together and also adopted two orphaned children.⁶ After a battle with a short illness, Dr. Peak died of a kidney disease on February 27, 1885 at the age of 56. His funeral took place in his home⁷ and he is laid to rest next to his wife and five of his children. __________________________ [1] “Dr. C.M. Peak Dead,” Fort Worth Daily Gazette. Fort Worth, TX, Vol. 9, No. 228, Ed. 1, Saturday, February 28, 1885, Pg. 5. Portal to Texas History, https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth86422/m1/5 ; Accessed 24 Aug 2023. [2] Pattie, Illene. Carroll Marion Peak: A Story of a Frontier Doctor. Texas State Historical Association. The Junior Historian, Volume 5, Number 5, March 1945, periodical, March 1945; Austin, Texas, Pgs. 17-19. https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth391509/ ; Accessed 24 Aug 2023. [3] “First Christian Church - Throckmorton.” Historic Fort Worth, 2022. https://historicfortworth.org/property/first-christian-church-throckmorton/ ; Accessed 25 Aug 2023. [4] Pattie, Illene. Carroll Marion Peak: A Story of a Frontier Doctor. 1945 [5] “Carroll Peak Elementary School.” Fort Worth ISD, 2023. https://www.fwisd.org/CarrollPeak ; Accessed 25 Aug 2023. [6] Pattie, Illene. Carroll Marion Peak: A Story of a Frontier Doctor. 1945 [7] “Dr. C.M. Peak Dead.” 1885. d, Katie. 2007, Pgs. 89-90. Block 3, Lot 20 [Explore the Map ]

Pioneers Rest Cemetery Welcome to Pioneers Rest Cemetery A Historic Landmark in Fort Worth - Established in 1850, just a year after Fort Worth was founded by Major Ripley Arnold, Pioneers Rest Cemetery holds a significant place in the city's history. Overlooking the confluence of the Clear and West Forks of the Trinity River, it originally served as the primary burial ground for the military outpost and later for the burgeoning city. Even after other cemeteries were established in 1879, Pioneers Rest remained a vital resting place for Fort Worth's early residents and their descendants. The cemetery is the final resting place for numerous notable figures, including two of Major Arnold’s young children, eleven soldiers from the fort, and some of Fort Worth’s earliest pioneers, such as General Tarrant, the namesake of Tarrant County. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of grave markers that showcase funerary motifs and designs from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries, including Gothic, Egyptian, Classical Revival, and Rustic styles. Spanning approximately seven acres, Pioneers Rest Cemetery was proudly listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2021, cementing its status as a cherished historical site in Fort Worth. WHAT'S HAPPENING? Join us at Pioneers Rest Cemetery for our monthly volunteer cleanup days! It's a great way to give back to the community, preserve our historic grounds, and connect with fellow history enthusiasts. Read More Our Valued Benefactors Honoring Those Who Support Pioneers Rest We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our benefactors, whose generous contributions help us preserve the rich history and heritage of Pioneers Rest Cemetery in Fort Worth, TX. Their support enables us to continue our mission of maintaining this historic site and hosting community events such as Fall Fest. Below are the esteemed benenfactors who have made a significant impact through their generosity. Diamond - $1,000 + Marcia Fuller French Cecelia Van Donselaar Matt Dixon Michael Darter Platinum - $500-$999 Paul and Wendy Blanton Virginia Brown Melissa and Paul Hunter Karen Stetler Janey & James Korth Nan & Mark Matson Gold - $300-$499 Sam A. ‘Alex’ Denny Madeline and Jim McLain David Hart, Painting Silver - $100-$299 Loretta Black Mary Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Buckley Sam B. Cantey Family Jo Carpenter William ‘Bill’ Collins, Jr. Lane Crabtree Matt Dixon JoAnn Mouser Allen & Charmaine Williams Malinda and Dennis Crumly Megan Salas Silver - $100-$299 Diana Lussier Jerry Wallace Donna and Tim Weddle Julia Jackson Chapter - (United Daughters of the Confederacy) Roots Garden Center Christy Cruz Susie and Douglas Pritchett Fred Cheek Monuments Merrell Daggett Michele Elekes Loretta Shumway National Credit Finance Corporation With deep appreciation, we honor our benefactors for their vital support in safeguarding the legacy of Pioneers Rest Cemetery. Their generosity preserves our past and nurtures our community’s future. Preserve Our Heritage: Donate to Pioneers Rest Cemetery Your generous donations help preserve the historic Pioneers Rest Cemetery, ensuring it remains a cherished landmark for future generations. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact in honoring and maintaining Fort Worth’s rich history. Please join us in our mission by donating today and help us continue this vital work. Ground Maintenance We need your support to hire maintenance workers for mowing and upkeep of the grounds, $20,000 of tree trimming across the seven acres, and ensuring proper watering and care. Your donations directly contribute to preserving the beauty and history of Pioneers Rest Cemetery. Join us in keeping this cherished landmark well-maintained for future generations. Support Restoration and Preservation Efforts Your donations are vital for repairing hundreds of headstones and antique wrought iron fencing, replacing markers for missing or deteriorated headstones, and undertaking essential tree removal and trimming. We urgently need support for new projects at Pioneers Rest Cemetery: restoring the Zane-Cetti monument and storm-damaged fencing, upgrading our water, electricity, and security systems, and launching a Native Plantings Initiative to beautify open spaces. Your contributions preserve the history and beauty of our cemetery for future generations. Please donate today to help make these projects possible. Completed Projects Thanks to your generous support, we are proud to announce the completion of several key projects at Pioneers Rest Cemetery. We have beautified the maintenance shed, restored and enhanced the sexton's cottage, expanded our QR Code Program, installed two new benches, replaced 33 headstones for individuals who previously lacked markers, and revitalized the main entrance by restoring the gates. Your continued support makes these achievements possible and helps preserve the historic charm of our cemetery. How to Donate To donate, please use the following methods: Zelle: 817-332-8515 Venmo: @PioneersRestCemetery Mail a check to: Pioneers Rest Cemetery Association PO Box 100294 Fort Worth, TX 76185 PayPal: Donate with PayPal Your support is greatly appreciated and makes a significant impact on preserving the history and beauty of Pioneers Rest Cemetery. QR Codes - Gone but not Forgotten Lamont at Large, a prominent YouTuber known for his "Forgotten in Death" series, recently caught wind of our QR Codes through a news broadcast. Taking advantage of his proximity, he chose Pioneers Rest Cemetery as the centerpiece of one of his latest video features. Through our QR Codes, countless stories that might otherwise have been consigned to obscurity in death are now vividly recalled and celebrated. This project still needs expanding to incorporate as many stories as possible.

Harry Palmer Jr. May 13, 1911 - July 24, 1952 Harry Palmer Jr. was born in Fort Worth on May 13, 1911 to parents Harry and Florence Palmer.¹ He was the last of 8 children born to the family. Harry was a member of the graduating class of 1929 of Central High School at 1003 W. Cannon St., now occupied by Trimble Technical High School. While in high school, Harry embraced his love for music and was a member of the R.O.T.C. Band.² His musical talents would continue into young adulthood, allowing him to be a professional trumpet player in several orchestras throughout Fort Worth.³ By 1940, Harry had married Glena Ruby Varnell. They had one child together, Teresa Ann. On July 24, 1952, Harry underwent a surgical procedure at St. Joseph's Hospital. He died during the surgery due to complications with anesthesia. At the time of his death, he was a cement contractor.⁴ Harry is buried in the large Palmer Family plot next to his spouse, both of his parents, his paternal grandmother and several siblings. __________________________ [1] “Certificate of Death, Mr, Harry Palmer Jr..” Texas Department of State Health Services; Austin Texas, USA; Texas Death Certificates, 1903–1982, 29 Jul 1952. Retrieved 13 Aug 2023 ; https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/2272/images/40394_b062407-02871?pId=22646005 . [2] "U.S., School Yearbooks, 1880-2012"; School Name: Central High School; Year: 1929. Retrieved 13 Aug 2023 ; https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryui-content/view/230377535:1265?tid=&pid=&queryId=dcd2efc913a6d36096208d621214daf7&_phsrc=lPS7665&_phstart=successSource . [3] “Harry Palmer.” Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth, Texas , Fri, Jul 25, 1952, Page 26. [4] “Certificate of Death, Mr, Harry Palmer Jr.,” 1952. Block 3, Lot 52 [Explore the Map ]

Miss Belle S. Andrews January 18, 1853 - June 28, 1882 Miss Belle S Andrews was the daughter of A.T. and Catherine Andrews. The Andrews family moved to Fort Worth in 1858 when much of the city was still “wilderness,” making the family one of the early pioneers of Tarrant County. Their family was quite large, with several sons and daughters.¹ Hard times would find the family in 1867, when Belle’s father passed away. Belle was only 15 years old at the time of his death. As she grew to be a young woman, Belle was known to be a local socialite and even mentioned she was “one of Fort Worth’s favorite daughters.”² She would attend a variety of social parties and events throughout Fort Worth and her name would regularly be mentioned in local newspapers. Her personality was described as being “bright and winsome” along with being “vivacious and joyous.” On June 28, 1882, after a short illness, Belle would die of “consumption” at the age of 29.³ Today, we would call this tuberculosis. __________________________ [1] “An Old Resident Dead.” Fort Worth Daily Gazette. Fort Worth, TX, Vol. 13, No. 118, Ed. 1, Monday, October 29, 1888 Page: 8 of 8. Retrieved 12 Aug 2023; https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth89688/m1/8/ . [2] “Weatherford.” Fort Worth Daily Democrat and Advance. Fort Worth, TX, Vol. 5, No. 310, Ed. 1 Wednesday, December 14, 1881 Page: 1 of 4. Retrieved 18 Aug 2023. https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth1047780/m1/1 . [3] “Miss Belle Andrews Dead.” Fort Worth Daily Democrat-Advance. Fort Worth, TX, Vol. 6, No. 166, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 29, 1882 Page: 4 of 4. Retrieved 12 Aug 2023; https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth1047717/m1/4 . Block 4, Lot 17 [Explore the Map ]

Christopher Columbus Fitzgerald abt. 1848 - August 26, 1877 Christopher Columbus Fitzgerald was born in Georgia about 1848 to parents Rev. Asa and Mary Fitzgerald. He commonly went by his middle name of Columbus, but early records show a combination of the use of both names. Sometime around 1864, the Fitzgerald family moved to Fort Worth. Columbus’ father, Asa Fitzgerald, was a preacher, a prospector, and a frequent litigant in lawsuits.¹ In 1868, Asa was the co-founding preacher of what would become the First Baptist Church of Fort Worth.² By early 1874, at the age of 26, Columbus was already active in his law enforcement career and was appointed to the role of a Deputy City Marshal. Later that same year, he was elected City Marshal on December 16, 1874. He replaced the sitting T. M. Ewing who had resigned. By 1876, Columbus ran for reelection to the City Marshal position, however Jim Courtright won the position by just 3 votes. Columbus was appointed to the Deputy City Marshal position after his loss to Courtright and he remained in this position for the rest of his short career. In addition to his police work, he was also a volunteer fireman and worked with Hook and Ladder Company #1,³ which was established in 1873.⁴ On August 25, 1877, Columbus was killed in the line of duty after responding to a dispute over the possession of a horse in a stable behind the Trans-Continental Hotel in Downtown Fort Worth. In this altercation, Mr. Fitzgerald received a gunshot wound to the face. He also was shot a second time during the dispute, which would ultimately prove fatal.⁵ Columbus died the next day on August 26, 1877 and his funeral was well attended.⁶ Although his headstone reads simply the year “1859,” there are no records that indicate this was a birth or death year. It also has nothing to do with his career as a marshal. In addition to this inaccuracy, it also appears Columbus was not the first City Marshal of Fort Worth, but rather one of the early marshals of the city. He is the first known officer to die in the line of duty in Fort Worth.⁷ __________________________ [1] “Churches, Mines, Courtrooms–and a Place in Panther City Lore” Hometown by Handlebar, 24 Oct 2022.; https://hometownbyhandlebar.com/?p=34823 : accessed 29 Sept 2024. [2] Bullock, Karen, “First Baptist Church, Fort Worth,” Texas State Historical Association, 26 Sept 2019; https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/first-baptist-church-fort-worth : accessed 29 Sept 2024. [3] “A Solemn Funeral,” The Daily Fort Worth Democrat, Fort Worth, TX, Vol. 2, No. 49, Ed. 1 Tuesday, August 28, 1877, [Pg. 4], Portal to Texas History : accessed 29 Sept 2024. [4] Wolf, Emily, “Fort Worth’s firefighters have a rich history, but not a museum. It’s a matter of money,” 8 Mar 2023, Fort Worth Report : accessed 29 Sept 2024. [5] Churches, 2022. [6] Solemn, 1877. [7] “Fort Worth Marshal's Office,” Officer Down Memorial Page, 2024; https://www.odmp.org/agency/4468-fort-worth-marshals-office-texas : accessed 24 Oct 2024. Block 2, Lot 76 [Explore the Map ]

Dr. Isaac Michael Darter January 19, 1851 - October 11,1893 Dr. Isaac MIchael Darter was born on January 19,1851 to parents Francis and Mary Darter in Alabama. By 1859, the family moved to Stephenville, Texas¹ where his father was a farmer.² In Darter’s late teenage years, the family moved to Fort Worth.³ Isaac married Annie Gordon on April 8, 1877, and their wedding was officiated by Rev. W.Y. Taylor of the First Christian Church in Fort Worth.⁴ Early in their marriage, Isaac worked as a carpenter and they had their first son, Joseph, in 1879.⁵ Around this time Isaac makes a major career change. He enrolled in college in late 1880 in St. Louis, Missouri and later the University of Louisville Medical School. He graduated from medical school in Louisville, Kentucky on February 27, 1883.⁶ While in college, Isaac and Mary mourned the loss of their son, Joseph, on July 18, 1881. He died of cholera⁷ and is the only family member buried in St. Louis, Missouri. Annie was pregnant at the time with their second child, Francis, born on November 27, 1881.⁸ After graduation, Isaac and family returned back to Fort Worth where he practiced medicine for 10 years. He became the City Physician for Fort Worth in 1888 and also developed a special Laryngeal Catheter that was patented in 1892. In addition to his success in medicine, Isaac and Annie had two more sons, William and Issac. Writings provided by his grandson indicate Isaac was a talented musician and played violin for his family and friends.⁹ On October 11, 1893, Dr. Darter passed away in his home at the corner of Lipscomb and Jarvis St. (home no longer standing.) He was only 42 years old.¹⁰ In addition to Isaac, his parents and and three siblings are also buried at Pioneers Rest Cemetery. __________________________ [1] “Dr. I.M. Darter Dead,” Fort Worth Daily Gazette, Fort Worth, TX, Vol. 17, No. 322, Ed. 1, Wednesday, October 11, 1893, newspaper, October 11, 1893; Fort Worth, Texas. Portal to Texas History : accessed September 27, 2024) [2] “Michael Darter,” 1860 United States Federal Census, Stephenville, Erath, Texas, Pg. 9, Ancestry.com ;: accessed September 27, 2024. [3] “Isaac M Darter,” 1870 United States Federal Census, Precinct 4, Tarrant, Texas, Pg. 23, Ancestry.com : accessed September 27, 2024. [4] “I.M.Darter,” Texas, U.S., Select County Marriage Records, 1837-1965, Tarrant, 1876-1879, Pg. 121, Ancestry.com : accessed September 27, 2024. [5] “Mike Darter” 1880 United States Federal Census, Dist. 88, Tarrant, Texas, Pg. 15A, Ancestry.com : accessed September 27, 2024. [6] Darter, Dr. Michael, A Brief History of Isaac Michael Darter, MD & Annie Mary Gorden Darter of Fort Worth, Texas, 1 Aug 2007, RootsWeb.com ; accessed September 27, 2024. [7] “Joseph F Darter,” Missouri, U.S., Death Records, 1850-1931, St. Louis, 1880-1881, Pg. 245, Ancestry.com : accessed September 27, 2024. [8] “Francis Micheal Darter,” U.S., World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942, Utah, All, Bridge, Harry - Fox Ward, [Pg. 900], Ancestry.com : accessed September 27, 2024. [9] Darter, Dr. Michael, “Life & Medical Practice In Fort Worth, Texas,” N.D. , The TXGe Web Project : accessed September 27, 2024. [10] “Dr. I.M. Darter Dead.” 1893. Block 2, Lot 17 [Explore the Map ]