Dennis Cemetery
Rosevine, Sabine County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This cemetery was established prior to 1836 when Texas was part of Mexico. Located on property later donated by pioneer settler Isaiah Hamilton, it was used as a burial site for slaves of the area around the pioneer Sulphur Spring community. The significance of the historic Dennis Cemetery is reflected in the lives of individuals buried here. Gravesites include those of Easter Scurlock, later Mrs. Randall Sneedy, and Henry Smith, who came to Texas in 1834 with their owner Captain William Scurlock, a celebrated veteran of the Texas Revolution two years later. Following Emancipation in 1865, both former slaves figured prominently in the development of the area's black community. Two of Easter's sons, Dave and Dick, who acquired the family name of Jim Dennis when they were sold to him, also became active leaders here. Descendants of slaves buried at this site still live in the area. No longer in use, the Dennis Cemetery contains more than 100 graves. The burial ground now serves as a reminder of Texas' early history and of the area's rich heritage. It is a symbol of pride for the local black community, which was founded on the efforts of pioneer slaves and freedmen interred here. (1982)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Established before 1836, when Texas was still part of Mexico, this ground began as a burial place for enslaved people of the Sulphur Spring community. Among those interred are men and women who arrived enslaved in the 1830s and, after Emancipation in 1865, became prominent builders of the area's Black community — including sons who took the name Dennis. With more than 100 graves, it remains a place of pride tended by descendants who still live nearby.
Why it matters
The cemetery preserves the continuous story of a Black community from slavery through freedom, a lineage of endurance and leadership too often erased from the landscape.
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Related people
- · Easter Scurlock
- · Captain William Scurlock
Related events
- · Emancipation
Themes & tags
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