Deep within the heart of Texas, nestled on the serene grounds of Eberly Ranch, lies the Francis Cemetery, a historic resting place that echoes with the tales of the Lone Star State’s past. This hallowed ground, lovingly restored and maintained by the ranch, pays homage to the memory of those who played pivotal roles in the struggle for Texas independence, including Miller Francis, a 1st Lieutenant in the Republic of Texas Army.
The Francis Cemetery, also known as Murff Cemetery, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Texas and its rich history. Named after Miller Francis, who valiantly fought in the Battle of San Jacinto, this sacred burial site is more than just a collection of headstones; it is a living relic of the state’s transformation from a hard-fought republic to a cherished part of the United States.
Miller Francis, born in 1810 and departing this world in 1882, was not just a name etched on a tombstone. He was a 1st Lieutenant with the 1st Regiment of Texas Volunteers, a proud member of the Republic of Texas Army. It was men like him who made sacrifices, faced adversity, and ultimately secured Texas’ freedom from Mexican rule.
The Battle of San Jacinto, a defining moment in Texas history, saw brave individuals like Miller Francis taking up arms to defend their homeland. This battle, fought on April 21, 1836, marked the turning point in the Texas Revolution. Led by General Samuel Houston, the Texian Army faced off against the formidable forces of General Antonio López de Santa Anna. In a remarkable 18-minute skirmish near present-day La Porte and Deer Park, Texas, the Texians secured a resounding victory, effectively ending the revolution.
Following the Battle of San Jacinto, Texas emerged as an independent nation—the Republic of Texas. For nearly a decade, Texas stood as its own country before being annexed by the United States in 1845. It was a period of growth, challenges, and nation-building, during which heroes like Miller Francis played vital roles.
Santa Anna, the once-mighty Mexican general, had sought to subdue the Texian government and the army led by Sam Houston. However, on that fateful day in 1836, the Texians, including Miller Francis, fought valiantly and emerged victorious. Santa Anna himself was captured the day after the battle, marking the end of a tumultuous chapter in Texas history.
The Francis Cemetery stands as a tribute to these heroes of yesteryears, where their memories continue to resonate. Visitors to the ranch have the opportunity to step back in time, paying their respects to Miller Francis and the countless others who left their mark on Texas. The cemetery serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience shown during Texas’ quest for independence.
As guests and visitors arrive by appointment, they can reflect on the enduring legacy of Texas and its journey from an independent nation to a vital part of the United States. The Francis Cemetery, lovingly preserved on the Eberly Ranch, ensures that the stories of those who shaped Texas remain alive, offering a poignant connection to the state’s past and a profound appreciation for its future.
In Francis Cemetery, you’ll find the resting places of several individuals, including:
John Alford: No birth date available; Died on 11 Sep 1849 at 49 years old.
W. T. Armstrong: Born 15 Mar 1814; Died 7 Feb 1887.
Nancy Emma Armstrong: Born 12 Aug 1857; Died Dec 1870.
Curtis: Born 1 Oct 1836; No death date available (marker broken).
J. W. Francis: Born 10 Nov 1843; Died 24 Jan 1864.
Nancy Francis: Born 10 Oct 1816; Died 5 May 1893.
Miller Francis: Born 10 Aug 1810; Died 21 Mar 1882.
Margaret Hines: Born 3 Nov 1813; Died 10 Oct 1882.
Marion J. McClung: Born 19 Jan 1859; Died 29 Oct 1882.
Nancy Murff: No birth date available; Died 15 Jan 1875 at 100 years old.
Louise Murff: No birth date available; Died 15 Aug 1880 at 50 years old.
Andrew Simpson: No birth date available; Died 9 Aug 1844 at 25 years old.
Haywood Smith: Born 24 Apr 1829; Died 8 Feb 1888.
Susan A. Smith: Born 13 Mar 1835; Died 8-Apr-04.
Source: Austin County TXGenWeb (countygenweb.com)
One Response
Great post about Francis Cemetery, which is a special place in Texas history. I went to Eberly Ranch and the cemetery with my family, and we had a great time. This place is important because it honors people like Miller Francis, who fought for Texas a long time ago. I remember from my school class in ‘Texas History’ that we learned about the Battle of San Jacinto, which helped Texas gain its freedom. Visiting the cemetery felt like going back in history and connecting with my heritage. The blog post was a good mix of stories and history, and I feel a lot of state pride knowing that Texas was its own country before joining the United States. ‘God Bless Texas!’