In a powerful display of heritage and community collaboration, members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV), the Descendants of Confederate Veterans (DCV), and the Concord Cemetery Association came together on Saturday, April 12, to honor 13 Confederate veterans laid to rest in the historic Concord Cemetery in Jonesville, Texas.

This joint project was the result of coordination between the Concord Cemetery Association, the East Texas Chapter of the DCV, and the W. W. Heartsill Camp #314 of Marshall. The DCV acquired a new veteran’s marker from the Southwell Company, with placement authorized by the Concord Cemetery Association.

The W. W. Heartsill Camp committed three full workdays to cleaning, restoring, and documenting the 13 graves, some of which belong to veterans from prominent plantation families in the region. Jonesville, situated in eastern Harrison County, was a significant center of cotton production in the antebellum South. The area’s fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for cotton cultivation, leading to the establishment of numerous plantations. These plantations not only contributed to the local economy but also played a part in the broader economic framework of the Confederacy. The Southern Pacific Railroad, connecting Marshall to Swanson’s Landing on Caddo Lake, facilitated the transport of cotton, making Jonesville a vital link in the supply chain that supported the region’s plantation economy.

During the Civil War, the Confederate government relied heavily on cotton exports to finance its military operations, and regions like Jonesville were central to this strategy. The community’s commitment to the Confederate cause was evident in its contributions to the war effort. Many local men enlisted in Confederate regiments, and the town’s infrastructure supported various military activities. The Southern Pacific Railroad, for instance, was repurposed during the war to meet logistical needs, underscoring Jonesville’s strategic importance.

Today, Jonesville’s rich history is preserved through landmarks like the Concord Cemetery, where 13 Confederate veterans are interred. Recent restoration efforts by the SCV, DCV, and the Concord Cemetery Association serve as a testament to the community’s enduring respect for its heritage and the sacrifices of those who served.

The W. W. Heartsill Camp #314, named after Sergeant William Williston Heartsill of Company F, 2nd Texas Cavalry, has been instrumental in preserving Confederate history in East Texas. Chartered in 2003, the camp has undertaken numerous projects, including reflagging cemeteries in Marshall, Greenwood, Scottsville, Fairview, and the Hebrew cemeteries, accounting for nearly 260 Confederate flags. Their dedication has earned them several accolades, such as the Distinguished Camp Award, Four Star Camp Award, Community Service Award, 100% Retention Award, and Best Camp Newsletter Award.

In addition to these efforts, the camp has produced educational videos about Confederate monuments, participated in national SCV reunions, and collaborated with other camps to honor Confederate veterans. Their commitment to preserving history and educating the public continues to make a significant impact in the community.

During the ceremony, the 5th Brigade Color Corps of the SCV presented the Colors and fired a single volley in tribute to the fallen soldiers.

Attendance included:

12 members of the SCV, including 8 from W. W. Heartsill Camp #314 (Marshall), 3 from the Upshur County Patriots Camp #2109 (Gilmer), and 1 from Gen. John Gregg Camp #958 (Longview).

8 members of the East Texas Chapter of the Descendants of Confederate Veterans.

12 representatives and descendants from the Concord Cemetery Association.

The event served as a testament to the continued commitment to preserving Confederate history and honoring the legacy of those who served. The restoration and ceremony offered a meaningful way to educate the public and reconnect with the rich, though complex, heritage of East Texas.