Attractions
Traces of the Wild and Rough Frontier — The Southward-Magee Cemetery
By Jessica Crabtree
Prior to the Civil War, the late 1850s were filled with pioneers leaving their home states, headed west on the trail to settle in the land of opportunity. Settlers from Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, Missouri and elsewhere forged the trail with their families and others in tow. What was ahead was rough trail, bad weather and the frontier, a line not defined, but specifically to Texas, known for its hostility.
North Texas was home to Native Americans such as the Kiowa, Apache, Wichita and Comanche. While history will teach you the frontier was violent, the pioneers were a different kind: survivors. Although, many didn’t survive, falling to the hand of burglars, disease, adversity along the trail, or raids. All that is left of the time are the cemeteries and tales passed through the generations. Recovered remnants are a rarity and considered remarkable.
While some cemeteries are marked and documented, others are abandoned or unknown. Out of the good nature of those who love history and want to preserve it for further generations, some choose to maintain even the smallest of areas where these pioneers came to rest.
With 115 identified cemeteries in Montague County, The Montague County Historical Commission has overseen such efforts in the cemetery known as the Southward-Magee near present day Alvord off Lanier Road. Presently the cemetery has 18 marked and identified graves.
After restoration of the burial grounds started, through the method of witching, more than 200 graves were found. MCHC secretary Margie Hess explained the lost and or unmarked graves were found through witching due to the fact that minerals from the remains were emitted into the soil, and the soil disturbance can be detected through witching, a method where two copper roads are held by hand and typically used to identify water once the rods cross.
To read more pick up a copy of the July 2018 NTFR issue. To subscribe call 940-872-5922.
The Ben Steadham family, son of John Edward Steadham. (Courtesy photo)
The infamous Kiowa Chief Satanta, responsible for countless deaths across the plains is who Larry McMurtry modeled his character “Blue Duck” after in the highly acclaimed book and film “Lonesome Dove.” (Courtesy photo)
It’s already March and the smell of springtime parties and special events is in the air.
Everybody knows in order to have a great party, you’ve got to have the right music.
Well, that’s where my friend Katie Dieter comes to the rescue.
Katie, aka DJ KD “The Spinner,” has been spinning the right mix for parties and special events throughout North Texas for years now. Her passion for music helps to make your special event one your friends will never forget. Whether you’re planning a wedding, banquet, school event or just a backyard get-together with friends, DJ KD “The Spinner” is the right call for you.
To read more, pick up a copy of the March issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
Seems lately these days Texas is becoming the envy of musicians from around the world.
With the overwhelming response to “Yellowstone,” the television series, Texas once again finds itself under the microscope of the world, much like the late 1980’s TV series know to all around the globe as “Dallas.”
With that said, the musician population in Texas is beginning to grow as many aspiring performers turn their sights on Texas instead of Nashville. Meet my newly-found friend and fellow musician Grace Partridge. This youthful 19 year old has recently made Texas her new home. She began fiddling at age four in Rigby, Idaho. Grace worked her way through the National Fiddle championships in Weiser, Idaho, becoming a five-time national champion. She’s even played on the Grand Ole Opry. Still yet, her desire to become a true Texas Fiddler has brought her to the Lone Star State. I’m pretty sure we can thank Bob Wills for that.
To read more, pick up a copy of the January 2024 issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
On Nov. 4, 2023, the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra will present an evening of Texas Cowboy, Country and Western Swing with yours truly, Dave Alexander and the fabulous Quebe Sisters.
Enjoy the music of Bob Wills, Willie Nelson, Gene Autry and many more of your Texas Music favorites performed with a full symphony orchestra. We also will feature music from my latest CD, “From The Saddle To Symphony Hall,” along with some of my own compositions. It is guaranteed to be a night to remember.
To read more, pick up a copy of the October issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
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