Texas Oakwood Cemetery is a very old and large graveyard in Tarrant County. Many important as well as historical Cowtown folk are buried there. From my work desk, I have a wonderful view of the Trinity River and Tarantula Railroad trestle, and beyond, I can see the small white headstones of Oakwood. Because I am such a geneology nut, I enjoy walking through these final resting places. History abounds if you know where to look.
Yesterday's post reminded me of an oddity at Oakwood. In a certain area of the cemetery, there is a sort of "Bartenders Row". In a straight line, there are about 12 to 15 bartenders from that bygone era of the cattle drives buried here. And, I am told, there is a similar area for "soiled doves". I have not been able to find the graves of the ladies, and I need to find a time to tour the cemetery when a docent is available to give me more history.
Another interesting fact, the last known gunfight in Fort Worth took place between Luke Short and Long Hair Jim Courtright. Both gentlemen are buried in Oakwood, less than 20 or 30 feet apart, although Short survived the shootout (see link) and was buried much later. For more in-depth discussion on Luke Short, visit this great site.
Guess it is just a geneologist's quirk, but I would rather roam an old bone yard than shop. Heck, I would choose it over a trip to Vegas. Ah, well, maybe not. Whatcha wanna BET there are some great old cemeteries in Nevada!
Who Is Cowtown Pattie?
- Cowtown Pattie
- I was Lillie Langtry in another life, and might have a crush on Calamity Jane.
