“Who was William Furneaux?” I ask. You see this plaque? It marks the spot where the Furneaux Cemetery began. This humble marker holds a story of pioneers and resilience.
William Furneaux a native of England arrived in Texas in 1857. He married Fanny Jackson whose family had settled in Texas in 1848 as part of the Peters Colony. Furneaux’s life ended in 1884. He was buried on his own farm. He’d designated that land for a public graveyard.
Seven-year-old Peter Husky died soon after. He was laid to rest near Furneaux. Interestingly three older graves were moved to this location from other cemeteries. This means the land’s history extends beyond 1884.
Peter Husky’s father William generously donated land for a church. The community quickly gathered to plan the cemetery layout and church construction. A cemetery association officially formed in 1888. The graveyard became officially known as Furneaux Cemetery.
The church and cemetery became known as Cemetery Hill. This reflects its prominent position within the surrounding farmland. A devastating tornado in 1924 destroyed the original frame church. The cemetery association then acquired the land.
Today Furneaux Cemetery stands as a testament to early settlers. It’s a resting place for many pioneers and their descendants. It’s more than just a cemetery. It’s a living history book. Each headstone tells a story. Each grave represents a life lived. Each life contributed to the fabric of this community.
Think about the lives buried here. Think about their struggles. Think about their triumphs. This plaque isn’t just metal and words. It’s a portal to the past. A powerful reminder of those who came before us. Their legacy lives on in the very soil beneath our feet. Take a moment to reflect on the lives lived and lost. Remember those who built this place. Remember Furneaux Cemetery.