The rich and diverse history of Harris County is reflected in historic cemeteries from the Baytown-Cedar Bayou area to Katy, from Humble to Bellaire, from the Cypress area to La Porte, and all that is within our county line. From the obscure family plot to the grandeur of Glenwood, these cemeteries tell stories of the forgotten pioneer and the world famous.
To paraphrase Ben Franklin, to know the character of a community, you need only to visit their cemeteries. Preservationists, genealogists and historians realize that cemeteries are a significant part of our heritage and should be preserved. The official state designation and historical marker will be just one phase in protecting them from urban encroachment and vandalism.
The Harris County Historical Commission (HCHC) offers help by presenting programs, making site visits and evaluations, and guiding individuals and organizations through the Texas Historical Commission’s Historic Texas Cemetery programs. This site is a 'work in progress.' Please visit again.
National Burial Database of Enslaved Americans. When the database is completed, it will be the first national repository of information on the grave sites of individuals who died while enslaved or after they were emancipated. Anyone who comes to the website will eventually be able to submit information about these places and conduct searches.
Applications
Applications for Historic Texas Cemetery designation will no longer be processed by local county historical commissions. Those interested in such a designation may contact the Texas Historical Commission at http://www.thc.state.tx.us. For specific information and forms, click on "Preserve" and then on "Cemetery Preservation," where you will find a descriptive link, "Historic Texas Cemetery Designation." However, it is recommended that you first contact the Harris County Historical Commission for assistance and guidance.
For additional information, comments, or questions regarding Cemeteries, Cemetery preservation, or other related items, please contact HistoricalCommissionCemeteries@hctx.net