Market Square
Cleburne, Johnson County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Established 1898 when 11 men, not waiting for an expenditure of public money, donated this land to the county "forever". Carries on tradition of "First Monday" (day used for trading in 1890s). Still used for trade of cattle, produce, and gossip among Johnson countians.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
In 1898, unwilling to wait on public funds, eleven Johnson County men donated this land to the county 'forever' as a place to trade. It carried on the tradition of 'First Monday,' the monthly trading day that had drawn country folk to town since the 1890s. Cattle, produce, and neighborly gossip changed hands here for generations.
Why it matters
Market squares and First Monday trade days were the economic and social heartbeat of rural county seats, where commerce and community gathered on the same courthouse-town ground.
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Themes & tags
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