Multiple Unknowns, Abston Cemetery / Old Bellew Cemetery -- Collin Co, TX
Posted by: 
techiegrl64
N 33° 02.870 W 096° 25.540
14S E 740386 N 3659535
Cemetery located near Lake Lavon, Texas, on the west side of SH 78. There are 37 marked graves and numerous unknowns, marked only with a small white cross inscribed with the words "Only God Knows".
Waymark Code: WM580J
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 11/25/2008
Views: 14
Accounts of the first burial here are conflicted, with some sources stating that John Abston was the first burial and others stating that Marcus C. Dupuy was actually the first burial in 1852. Various accounts about the original name for the cemetery and the land ownership are also contradictory. The historical marker states that this land was originally set aside as a family burial ground for the Abston family, with Elias Bellew, a former slave, being given land nearby with the agreement that he would take care of the cemetery grounds. Land records for the property around this area raise questions about the original ownership of the ground allocated to the cemetery, with some indicating that it was probably started as a Dupuy family cemetery. Whatever the case, this cemetery contains some unique and very old graves in a lovely, peaceful setting.
The grave site of John Abston represents the only veteran of the Revolutionary War buried in North Texas. Born in Virginia in the late 1700s, Abston served under Capt. John Ellis and was part of the Battle of King's Mountain. This battle is considered to be one of the most decisive battles of the Revolution. John Abston's grave is located at coords N33 02.852 W096 25.538.
There is a historical marker placed by the state of Texas at the entrance to the cemetery, located at coords N33 02.854 W096 25.530.
There is also a survey marker at the foot of the historical marker which can be logged. It is worthwhile to read the marker and then spend a few minutes to walk through the cemetery grounds and see this unique place. It would be wonderful if you can also post your photos and impressions of the location.
The cemetery is set back from the road on the west side of SH 78, behind a picnic area, and access to the cemetery is obtained by parking at the picnic area.
Burial Location: Abston Cemetery / Old Bellew Cemetery -- Lavon, Texas
Available Times for Viewing: 24/7
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Visit Instructions:
Take a picture of the headstone. A waymarker and/or GPSr is not required to be in the image.