Hurst, Pharis
Ozona, Crockett County, Texas
Marker Inscription
U.S. Army veteran of Civil War, discharged after loss of arm, siege of Vicksburg. Born in Pennsylvania. Came to Texas after war. Was a farmer-teacher-postmaster. Wives: (1) Melinde Beal; (2) Zilla Parker. Had 4 children. Lived in Ozona 1917-1927. Recorded-1970
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Pharis Hurst, born in Pennsylvania, served in the U.S. Army during the Civil War and was discharged after losing an arm in the siege of Vicksburg—one of the war's decisive campaigns. Like many veterans, he came to Texas afterward, making a living as farmer, teacher, and postmaster. He lived in Ozona from 1917 to 1927, his marker recording a life of service and quiet perseverance after a grievous wartime wound.
Why it matters
Hurst's story carries the Civil War's human cost westward, a reminder of how maimed Union veterans rebuilt ordinary lives on the Texas frontier.
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Related people
- · Pharis Hurst
Related events
- · Siege of Vicksburg
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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