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  • Carroll M. Peak | PioneersRestCemetery

    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

    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.

  • Ferguson Brothers | PioneersRestCemetery

    The Ferguson Brothers The Ferguson Brothers , Charles David “Chas” Ferguson and Jesse Robert “Jess” Ferguson were born to Charles and Melvina (née Beville) Ferguson. Both parents are buried in the family plot near their sons at Pioneers Rest Cemetery. Patriarch Charles S. Ferguson’s large upright headstone anchors the family plot. Melvina has a replacement headstone. Two other sons of Charles S. Ferguson (half brothers to Jess and Chas) were also early Fort Worth firefighters, Standifer Ferguson and Louis Ferguson. They are buried elsewhere in Fort Worth. Charles “Chas” David Ferguson July 5, 1877 - February 10, 1942 Charles David “Chas” Ferguson was born on July 5, 1877, in Texas (likely Fort Worth). He was an Army veteran of the Spanish American War. He enlisted in Fort Worth on November 9, 1898, in the 2nd Texas Infantry, Company D as a private.¹ Once his military career was complete, Chas returned to Fort Worth and became a fireman. Chas died on February 10, 1942 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Fort Worth of heart failure and influenza. He was 64 years old. Mystery does surround Chas in regard to his marital status. Although his death certificate states he was married at the time of his death², no marriage records or spouses have been located. The 1930 U.S. Census states he was divorced.³ He has no known descendants. Jesse “Jess” Robert Ferguson March 10, 1880 - November 29, 1952 Jesse Robert “Jess” Ferguson was born on March 10, 1880 in Fort Worth.⁴ Although the date is unknown, Jess married Minnie “Mamie” Staker sometime before 1930 and they remained married until her death in 1950. He joined the Fort Worth Fire Department in 1917. At the time he retired in 1944, Jess was the captain of Station 20 located on Meadowbrook Dr. During his long association with the fire department, he also served as district fire chief of Station 12 at 24th St. and Prospect. However, most of the time, Ferguson was stationed at 2nd and Commerce — Station 1, the oldest in Fort Worth. Before that he served at the old Central Fire Station on Throckmorton.⁵ Jesse died at his home at 2826 Hemphill St. (home no longer standing.) He was 73 years old. He did not have children, and there are no known direct descendants.⁶ His wife, “Mamie” is buried next to him. __________________________ [1] “Ferguson Charles” Spanish American War Volunteers Index to Compiled Military Service Records, 1898, Fas-Fir, [pg. 1000], Ancestry.com ; accessed 24 Oct 2024. [2] “Certificate of Death, Charles D. Ferguson.” Texas Department of State Health Services; Austin Texas, USA; Texas Death Certificates, 1903–1982, 10 Feb 1942, Ancestry.com ; accessed 24 Oct 2024. [3] “Chas D Ferguson” 1930 United States Federal Census, District 0080, Tarrant, Texas, Pg. 135, Ancestry.com : accessed 1 Dec, 2024. [4] “Certificate of Death, Jess R. Ferguson.” Texas Department of State Health Services; Austin Texas, USA; Texas Death Certificates, 1903–1982, 29 Nov 1952, Ancestry.com ; accessed 24 Oct 2024. [5] “J.R. Ferguson, Ex-Fireman, Dies at Home” Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Three Star ed., 1 Dec 1952, p. 15. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current , Accessed 13 Aug. 2023. [6] Certificate, 1952. Block 1, Lot 18 [Explore the Map ]

  • Hats Off | PioneersRestCemetery

    Join us November 20, 2025, at Ridglea Country Club to celebrate the 175th Anniversary of Pioneers Rest Cemetery! Dinner, entertainment, and historic charm await. Join us for the 175th Anniversary Celebration Join us for an unforgettable evening honoring the 175-year legacy of Pioneers Rest Cemetery — Fort Worth’s oldest public burial ground and a cornerstone of local history. Hats Off to Pioneers Rest Cemetery! Evening Highlights: Cocktail Reception: 6:00 PM —Cash Bar Dinner: 6:45 PM — A delicious meal with non-alcoholic beverages included. Master of Ceremonies and performer: Quentin McGown Dinner Theater Entertainment directed by Sharon Benge: 7:30 PM —Period music and theatrical performances celebrating Pioneer Rest Cemetery’s rich past. 💛 Sponsorship Opportunities Support the preservation and legacy of Fort Worth’s oldest cemetery by becoming a sponsor of our 175th Anniversary Celebration. Ticket and Sponsorship Information Individual Ticket (Dinner and Entertainment): $75 Friend of Pioneers Rest Cemetery (Donation only): $175 Bronze Sponsorship (Includes 2 Guest Tickets): $500+ Copper Sponsorship (Includes 4 Guest Tickets): $1,000+ Silver Sponsorship (Includes 1 Table of 8 Guests): $2,500+ Gold Sponsorship (Includes 2 Tables of 8 Guests – 16 Total): $5,000+ Diamond Sponsorship (Includes 3 Tables of 8 Guests – 24 Total): $10,000+ Seating is limited. All sponsorship levels include event admission. [Purchase Tickets Now] To remit, please use one of 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 (use any credit card): Donate with PayPal Thank You for Supporting Our Legacy Your support ensures the stories of our city's past continue to inspire future generations. Together, we can preserve Pioneers Rest Cemetery for years to come. JOIN US NOW!

  • Contact Us | PioneersRestCemetery

    Contact Us Physical Address 620 Samuels Ave Fort Worth 76102 817-332-8515 infopioneersrest@gmail.com Mailing Address P. O. Box 100294 Fort Worth, TX 76185 Leave your message here First name* Last name* Email* Message By checking this box and submitting your information, you are granting us permission to email you. Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. I may unsubscribe at any time. SEND

  • Ripley Allen Arnold | PioneersRestCemetery

    Major Ripley Allen Arnold 1818 - September 6, 1853 Major Ripley Allen Arnold was born in early 1817 or 1818 in Hancock County, Mississippi. His father was Willis Arnold, but his mother is unfortunately unknown. Little is actually known about his youth as his diary and other documents were destroyed by fire after his death while in his granddaughter’s possession. Arnold entered the Military Academy at West Point when he was barely 17 years old on July 1, 1834. He graduated in 1838 and was commissioned in the U.S. Army at the rank of Second Lieutenant. Shortly after graduation, Arnold also renewed a relationship back in Mississippi with his childhood sweetheart, Catherine Bryant. She was 15 years old while Arnold was 21. Catherine’s parents felt she was far too young for such a serious relationship.¹ Despite how her family felt, Arnold and Catherine eloped and were married on August 29, 1839 in New York City.² Arnold’s military career started with being assigned to the First Dragoons, a cavalry unit on duty in Florida during the Indian War. His work with the unit was recognized and he was promoted to First Lieutenant in 1841. Physically, Arnold was described as being about 6 feet tall, with piercing gray eyes and auburn hair and his physical presence helped to make him a commanding officer. He was also noted as being quick-witted and ingenious. On April 19, 1842, Arnold was promoted to the rank of Captain after his “gallant conduct on the field of battle.” His new rank also came with a new assignment, which put him on frontier duty in Baton Rouge and Fort Jessup in Louisiana. When the U.S. declared war on Mexico in 1846, Arnold came to Texas with General Zachary Taylor (the future 12th President). Once in Texas, he was reassigned to the Second Dragoons and was under the leadership of Col. William J. Worth. It was under his leadership where Arnold was promoted to the rank of Major for his “gallant and meritorious conduct.” After the end of the Mexican American war in 1848, Arnold was sent to the Hill County of Texas where he established Fort Graham in April 1849. Later that same year, Arnold was ordered to set up another military post on the Trinity River in North Texas in order to protect the land from Indians. He left Fort Graham and headed northeast through rugged and wild country. Once Arnold arrived in the area, he was met by Col. M.T. Johnson, who also had been under Col. Worth’s command during the Mexican American war. Johnson had been asked to aid Arnold in setting up the new Fort as he knew the terrain. In 1849, once the site for the new Fort was established, Col. Johnson and Maj. Arnold decided to name the site Camp Worth after their hero and commander, who was recently deceased. The name would later be upgraded to Fort Worth. In the Fall of 1852, Arnold was transferred back to Fort Graham. On Sept. 6, 1853, a dispute rang out between Arnold and Assistant Surgeon Josephus Steiner. Arnold had ordered the surgeon to be arrested, but Steiner put up a fight.³ Both drew their weapons, but Arnold was shot dead in the doorway of his living quarters by Steiner. Arnold’s wife was a witness to the incident. He was dead within 15 minutes.⁴ Steiner was later acquitted of any wrongdoing in a civil trial. The surgeon was said to be “insane.”⁵ Sadly, just 11 days after the death of Arnold, Fort Worth was abandoned by the U.S. Army. Ripley and Catherine had 5 children, 2 of which would die in childhood. With Ripley’s military career, Catherine and the children spent the winters in Washington, DC where the children attended school. They would then meet up with Ripley in the summers. Arnold was buried initially at Fort Graham but was reinterred in Pioneers Rest Cemetery in Fort Worth at his request.⁶ In the early 1900’s, many grew concerned about the condition of his grave as it was overgrown and not marked clearly. In 1903, threats were made by the War Department that if the cemetery did not make better efforts to clean-up the grave site, they would remove Ripley Arnold and take him back to the National Cemetery at Fort Sam Houston.⁷ By 1909, May Swayne, President of Pioneers Rest Cemetery began a wide scale campaign to raise funds for a more suitable monument.⁸ The monument that stands today is the result of the efforts of many individuals and organizations that gave to the cemetery cause. In 2014, a statue of Maj. Ripley Arnold was placed at the Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth.⁹ __________________________ [1] Thompson, Tommy. “Ripley A. Arnold - Frontier Major.” The Junior Historian, Austin, TX, Volume 9, Number 6, May 1949, Pgs. 1-4. Accessed 28 Sept 2023 ; https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth391369/m1/3/zoom/?q=junior%20historian&resolution=3&lat=3196.9125570472934&lon=1254.1747259313508 [2] “Lt. R.A. Arnold.” New York City, Compiled Marriage Index, 1600s-1800s, 29 Aug 1839. Ancestry.com, Accessed 28 Sept 2023 ; https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryui-content/view/66795:7854?ssrc=pt&tid=16731112&pid=282346326618 . [3] Thompson, Tommy, 1949, pgs. 3-4. [4] “Arnold’s Slaying Raised Storm Over State Rights.” Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Two Star ed., 30 Oct. 1949, p. 124. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current . Accessed 28 Sept 2023. [5] "War Department is Inquiring. Wants to Know About the Remains of Late Maj. Arnold." Fort Worth StarTelegram, no. 233, 29 Jan. 1903, p. 5. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current , Accessed 27 Sept. 2023. [6] Pgs. 3-4, Accessed 28 Sept 2023 ; https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth391369/m1/3/zoom/?q=junior%20historian&resolution=2&lat=3416.8314142479776&lon=1058.8401602839508 [7] "War Department…”, 1903, p.5. [8] "Plan Monument for Major Arnold in Old Cemetery! Meeting to Discuss Fixing up of Burying Ground." Fort Worth Star-Telegram, vol. XXVII, no. 301, 13 Nov. 1909, p. [1]. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current, Accessed 27 Sept. 2023. [9] “Major Ripley Arnold Statue & John V. McMillan Plaza.“ Panther Island Pavilion, Tarrant Regional Water District, N.D. Accessed 28 Sept 2023 ; https://pantherislandpavilion.com/things-to-do/major-ripley-arnold-statue-john-v-mcmillan-plaza/ Block 4, Lot 51 [Explore the Map ]

  • Mary May Morgan McGuire | PioneersRestCemetery

    Mary May Morgan McGuire August 15, 1881 - April 4, 1946 Mary May Morgan was born at 820 Samuels Ave in Fort Worth on August 15, 1881 (home no longer standing). The home stood just two blocks from the Pioneers Rest Cemetery. Her parents were Conrad B. and Hannah Morgan, and they came to Fort worth in a covered wagon after the close of the civil war.¹ Her father served in the Union Army for the 49th Ohio Infantry.² Their home on Samuels Ave was the first two story home built on the prominent thoroughfare and was constructed with timber brought by ox cart from East Texas. On April 5, 1901, May married Milton Francis McGuire at the home of Rev. James Meyers.³ Milton worked as an Engineer for the Frisco Railroad. After their marriage, they continued to live in her childhood home along with many of her siblings. On August 15, 1911, Milton passed away at the age of 40 in the home on Samuels Ave.⁴ May and Milton had no children, and she found herself a young widow at the age of 30. Following the death of her husband, May decided (in 1912) to enter All Saints Hospital School of Nursing in Fort Worth. After graduation, she became a nurse for the American Red Cross. By 1917, the United States entered World War I and May decided to answer the call for women to enlist in the U.S. Army as nurses. She was the first WWI nurse to enlist from Fort Worth. She was assigned to Selfridge Field, Michigan where she was a specialist in the laboratories preparing serum used to treat the influenza outbreak known as the Spanish Flu. After her discharge, she returned to Fort Worth and later became the Commander of the Worth Post of the American Legion. She was also a member of the Trinity Episcopal Church. In the later years of her life, May became an invalid and lived at the Veterans Hospital in Bay Pines, Florida. In 1945, doctors gave her the prognosis that she did not have long to live, and her wish was to come home to Texas. On April 4, 1946, May died in her childhood home among family, in the very bedroom where she was born. Above her deathbed, U.S. and Texas flags hung, of which she spoke fondly of even at the hour of her death.⁵ __________________________ [1] “City’s First WWI Nurse Dies,” Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fri, Apr 05, 1946 ·Page 2, Col 1. [2] "C. B. Morgan G. A. R. Leader Dies at 76." Fort Worth Star-Telegram, City Edition ed., vol. XXXV, no. 16, 7 Feb. 1915, p. Page Seven. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current ,: accessed 29 Sept 2024. [3] "Weddings McGuire-Morgan," Fort Worth Morning Register, vol. V, no. 147, 5 Apr. 1901, p. 2. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current ,: accessed 29 Sept 2024. [4] "McGuire," Fort Worth Star-Telegram, City Edition ed., vol. XXIX, no. 211, 17 Aug. 1911, p. Page Eleven. NewsBank: Access World News – Historical and Current , accessed 29 Sept 2024. [5] City’s, 1946. Block 2, Lot 23 [Explore the Map ]

  • AddRan Clark | PioneersRestCemetery

    AddRan Clark November 3, 1869 - November 6, 1872 AddRan Clark was born on November 3, 1869 in Fort Worth to Joseph Addison Jr. and Sarah Clark. He would be the first of eight children and also a second generation Texan. The Clark family were early pioneers to Fort Worth and his father, who went by Addison, had served as a 1st Lieutenant in the Texas Cavalry of the Confederate Army.¹ In addition to his military career, Addison was a lifelong teacher and preacher.² AddRan’s unique name is a combination of his father and grandfather’s middle name and his paternal uncle's name Randolph. The same year AddRan was born, the two brothers (Addison & Randolph) opened a children’s preparatory school where both boys and girls could be classically educated. This school opened under the name “The Male & Female Seminary of Fort Worth.”³ Their father Joseph supported their vision by purchasing a tract of land in present-day Downtown, near what was referred to as “Hell’s Half Acre.”⁴ Sadly, little AddRan died in late 1872 and by 1873 the streets of Fort Worth were changing. In time parents became reluctant to send children to Fort Worth for schooling. According to Randolph Clark, "in 1873, the little village became suddenly disturbed, really hysterically excited over the railroad and prospect of a city right at once. This made it not a desirable place to assemble young people for training.” Fort Worth at this time was also seen to be a raw land for trail drivers and headquarters for "the tough vagabond and the professional gambler." In the same year of 1873, the Clarks bought a two-story stone schoolhouse erected forty miles west of Fort Worth in Hood County in the community of Thorp Spring. With just 13 students, they opened the doors of AddRan Male and Female College, one of the first co-ed institutions west of the Mississippi.⁵ The school’s name was inspired by Addison’s deceased son. The school would change its name in 1889 to AddRan Christian University when the property was taken over by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ.) Both brothers remained active in the daily operations of the university. Around Christmas of 1895, with the expansion in enrollment, the university moved to Waco, Texas. In 1902, the university would go through their final name change and would forever be known as Texas Christian University (TCU).⁶ In 1910, a fire destroyed the TCU campus in Waco and the decision was made to move the university to Fort Worth. The city leaders of Fort Worth felt a college might help soften their reputation as a rowdy “cow town.”⁷ The AddRan College of Arts and Sciences (presently the AddRan College of Liberal Arts) would be created within the university, recognizing the early efforts of the Clark Brothers. A statue of the two brothers, both Addison and Randolph, stands today on the campus outside the building that bears the unique name of Addison’s son.⁸ Addison Clark is recognized as the first president of TCU, who served from 1873-1899.⁹ Although AddRan only lived to the age of 3, his influence cannot be ignored. He is the only member of his family to be buried at Pioneers Rest Cemetery. __________________________ [1] Hardeman, Lyman. The History of Texas Christian University. Texas Proud. 12 Dec 2020. https://texasproud.com/texas-christian-university-history/ ; Accessed 21 Aug 2023. [2] Hall, Colby. History of Texas Christian University. TCU Press, Fort Worth, TX. 2014, pg. 8. [3] Hardeman. 2020. [4] Hall. 2014, pg. 13. [5] “Our History Starts with a Family.” Texas Christian University. 2023. https://www.tcu.edu/about/mission-history.php ; Accessed 16 Aug 2023. [6] Hall. 2014, pgs. [xxvii], 14, 30-37. [7] “Our History Starts with a Family.” 2023. [8] “History & Vision.” AddRan College of Liberal Arts. Texas Christian University. 2023. https://addran.tcu.edu/about/history-vision.php ; Accessed 16 Aug 2023. [9] “Past Chancellors.” Texas Christian University. 2023. https://chancellor.tcu.edu/the-office/past-chancellors/ ; Accessed 16 Aug 2023. Block 3, Lot 43 [Explore the Map ]

  • Robert E. Maddox | PioneersRestCemetery

    Robert Egan Maddox January 19, 1849 - April 12, 1906 Robert E. Maddox was born on January 18, 1848 or 1849 in Bienville Parish, Louisiana to parents William and Mary Maddox. He was the third child born to the couple. By 1870, the family moved to Denton County, Texas where Robert was a farmer and rancher. By 1873, he was living in Denison, Texas and during the “Panic of 1873”, Robert lost all his money. He was able to borrow money and then moved to Fort Worth. When he arrived in Fort Worth, he worked as a grocery clerk for J.W. Armstrong. Few could foresee Robert would become one of the most successful real estate developers of early Fort Worth history. In 1876, he was elected the City Tax Assessor and Collector.¹ By 1881, Robert began his successful career buying and selling real estate in Tarrant County. At the age of 32, Robert married Anna Higbee on November 1, 1881.² The couple would only have a short time together as Anna passed away in 1882 during the birth of their only child, Charleton. The infant would also die the same day. By the 1890’s, Robert owned a large amount of property in Downtown Fort Worth including the Richelieu Hotel.³ His growing success in real estate helped fund his real passion: buying and selling livestock. By the mid 1890’s, Robert had built himself a residence and stables called Maddoxia Park stock farm, also known as “Grand Palace Stables.” The property was located 3 miles east of the historic Tarrant County Courthouse. His love for livestock, especially horses, led him to be an early investor in what would become the modern day Stockyards of Fort Worth. He worked alongside other notable Fort Worth leaders such as John Peter Smith, E.M. “Bud” Daggett, and Robert McCart to help grow and expand the Stockyards during his lifetime.⁴ Although his headstone states he died on April 20, 1907, he actually passed away on April 11, 1906.⁵ His funeral was well attended and many prominent leaders of the city attended. At his funeral, Rev. C.W. Daniel stated “There is no death, the stars go down to rise upon some fairer shore. And bright in heaven’s jeweled crown, they will shine forevermore.”⁶ Maddox is buried in Pioneers Rest Cemetery next to his wife and infant son. His parents are also buried in the cemetery. __________________________ [1] Hudson, Weldon and Barbara Knox. Pioneers Rest Cemetery, Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas. Fort Worth Genealogical Society. 2001, pg 141. [2] “Robert E Maddox and Anna Higbee.” Record of Marriage Licenses of Tarrant County. Texas, U.S., Select County Marriage Records 1837-1965, Ancestry.com, Image 339. Accessed 15 Sept 2023 ; https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/9168/images/45605_b220550-00338?pId=25959001 . [3] Hudson, 2001, pg 141. [4] “Who The Heck was…R.E. Maddox?,” Hometown by Handlebar, 6 Oct 2022. Accessed 15 Sept 2023; https://hometownbyhandlebar.com/?p=32895 . [5] “Colonel R.E. Maddox Dead.” The Daily Express, San Antonio, TX, Vol. 41, No. 102, Ed. 1 Thursday, April 12, 1906, newspaper, April 12, 1906; Accessed 15 Sept 2023; https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth441270/m1/3/?q=Robert+Maddox+Fort+Worth . [6] “Funeral Services Largely Attended.” The Fort Worth Record and Register, Fort Worth, TX, Vol. 10, No. 180, Ed. 1 Friday, April 13, 1906, newspaper, April 13, 1906; Fort Worth, Texas. Accessed 15 Sept 2023; https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth1441710/m1/8/?q=Robert+Maddox+Fort+Worth . Block 3, Lot 22 [Explore the Map ]

  • Etta Price Newby | PioneersRestCemetery

    Etta O. (Price) Newby May 28, 1862 - June 23, 1936 Etta O. (Price) Newby was born during the Civil War on May 28, 1862 to William and Macklin Price in Enterprise, Mississippi. She was the youngest of 3 children, all of which were girls. The family moved to Fort Worth in 1874.¹ Just a few years after coming to the city, Etta’s father died leaving her fatherless at the age of 15.² The family remained an active part of Fort Worth society and on December 14, 1882 she married William G. Newby. Her new husband was a banker and would evidently become the president of American National Bank in Fort Worth. William was very philanthropic toward the community and was a member of the Masonic lodge and the Knights of Pythias. Toward the end of his life, William became chronically ill and was in poor health for a lengthy period of time. On April 29, 1916, William committed suicide in their home at 1801 W. Magnolia (present day site of All Saints Hospital.) Etta now found herself a widow and longed to continue the philanthropic efforts of her late husband. She actively searched for a way to memorialize the life of her husband and did so through The Woman’s Club of Fort Worth. In 1923, she bought the former home of Heinrich Frerichs located at 1613 Pennsylvania Ave. The home had sat empty since 1914 when the Frerichs family fled back to Germany after Heinrich was found to be the head of German intelligence in the Southwest. In 1917, the U.S. Government confiscated the residence to help house army personnel during World War I. Mrs. Newby was able to purchase the home from the government and deeded the property to The Woman’s Club.³ The residence for the club was named the “William G. Newby Memorial Building” and still stands today. It became a Texas Historic Landmark in 1967.⁴ In addition to her generous donation to The Woman’s Club, Etta also established the Etta Newby Student Loan Fund at Texas Christian University and furnished the chimes at the Fort Worth First Methodist Church. She also provided a large endowment to the Pioneers Rest Cemetery. Mrs. Newby died on June 23, 1936 and is buried in the Price family plot at Pioneers Rest Cemetery next to her husband, parents, and two siblings. She has no known children. On the day of her memorial service, the chimes she provided to the Methodist Church rang in memory of her. Each year on the anniversary of her birthday, members of The Woman’s Club of Fort Worth travel to the cemetery to place flowers on her grave and also fly their flag at half-staff at the club headquarters in her honor.⁵ __________________________ [1] “Died.” Fort Worth Daily Gazette. (Fort Worth, Tex.), Vol. 7, No. 253, Ed. 1, Thursday, September 13, 1883, newspaper, September 13, 1883; Fort Worth, Texas. (https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth114537/m1/4/?q=%20date%3A1877-1883 : accessed August 29, 2023), University of North Texas Libraries, The Portal to Texas History, https://texashistory.unt.edu ; . [2] Hudson, Weldon and Barbara Knox. Pioneers Rest Cemetery, Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas. Fort Worth Genealogical Society. 2001. Pg 114. [3] Sherrod, Katie. Grace & Gumption : Stories of Fort Worth Women. TCU Press. 2007, Pgs. 89-90. [4] “William G. Newby Memorial Building.” Historical marker Database. 2023. https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=224810 ; Accessed 29 Aug 2023. [5] Sherrod, Katie. 2007, Pgs. 89-90. Block 2, Lot 30 [Explore the Map ]

  • Donate | PioneersRestCemetery

    Support the Preservation of Pioneers Rest Cemetery Preserving history is a community effort, and your contributions help us maintain the legacy of Fort Worth's oldest public cemetery. Together, we can honor the pioneers who shaped our city and ensure their stories live on. Preserve History Today! 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 Why Donate? Your generous donation helps us: Maintain and restore historical gravesites and monuments. Offer educational programs and guided tours to share the rich history of Fort Worth. Host events like Fall Fest and Wreaths Across America to bring the community together. Provide necessary tools and supplies for monthly volunteer clean-ups. How You Can Help We offer several ways to contribute: One-Time Donations – Every dollar makes a difference. Monthly Giving – Become a Cemetery Sustainer and support us year-round. Memorial Gifts – Honor a loved one by preserving history in their name. Where Your Money Goes We are committed to transparency. Your donation will directly support: Grounds maintenance and landscaping. Gravestone restoration and preservation efforts. Public history events and educational programs. Thank You for Supporting Our Legacy Your support ensures the stories of our city's past continue to inspire future generations. Together, we can preserve Pioneers Rest Cemetery for years to come. DONATE NOW!

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