Two historical markers were recently removed, repaired and relocated from U.S. Hwy. 183 to Lakeside Drive north of Cuero.
The two historical markers bearing the history of “Old Chisholm Trail” and the “Site of the Friar- Cardwell Stage Stand” stood across from Sunoco Service Station on the highway. There was little room for a car to pull off to view the markers, and one of them was bent from apparently being hit by a vehicle.
County historical commissions monitor markers to ensure they are in good repair and accessible to the public, and DeWitt County Historical Commission decided on the relocation.
A DeWitt County Historical Commission member, Jason Obelgoner, preserves and restores historical headstones and monuments using biological cleaning solutions and repainting them when necessary. He has voluntarily restored several markers, including the ones on Lakeside Drive.
DeWitt County Precinct 1 Commissioner Ryan Varela took the markers down, repaired the bent post and reinstalled them where cars could turn onto Lakeside Drive to view them out of the highway traffic.
There are 118 markers in DeWitt County commemorating historical events, people, and buildings.
The Texas Historical Commission website states “As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious organizations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to our state, community organizations, and businesses.”
Individuals, businesses, or organizations may sponsor marker applications to share our local history with the public. Before a marker application can be submitted to THC, the county historical commission reviews it for accuracy and checks to see that all requirements have been met.
