Cove Springs Cemetery
Melrose, Nacogdoches County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Named for three coves and their springs nearby, this cemetery was originally associated with a local Methodist church. In 1858, Daniel H. Vail deeded 30 acres of land to the congregation for school and church purposes, and a cemetery was also established there. The oldest documented grave is that of five-year-old Moses J. Davis in 1866, though some graves are marked with native rocks and could predate it. The cemetery covers 7.46 acres with 66 marked graves inside a 1.4-acre fenced area. The cemetery continues to serve as a burial site for the surrounding community. (1996)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Named for three spring-fed coves nearby, this East Texas cemetery grew out of a local Methodist congregation after Daniel H. Vail deeded 30 acres for church and school in 1858. The oldest marked grave belongs to five-year-old Moses J. Davis, buried in 1866, though rough native-rock markers may hide older burials. Today the grounds hold 66 marked graves and still serve the surrounding community as a place of rest.
Why it matters
Rural cemeteries like Cove Springs are the enduring records of pioneer families, preserving names and losses that no other document keeps.
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Related people
- · Daniel H. Vail
- · Moses J. Davis
Themes & tags
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