In the late 1830's the Governor of Texas dispatched Texas Militia “Rangers” to North East Texas to deal with Native American attacks on Settlers. In December of 1838 General John Dyer, out of Clarksville, sent Capt. William Stout and 42 Rangers to establish a Fort at the crossing of Big Cypress along the “Indian Trail” known as the Cherokee Trace. The Post was established just north of the Cherokee Trace near Bell’s Branch, which places the location on or near the Lake Bob Sandlin State Park. Fort Sherman Cemetery is also located in the Park and believed to be one of the oldest in the area, dating back to the Fort Sherman days.
On June the 8th there will be a recognition ceremony in the day use area of the Park that will include period piece dressed re-enactors, crafts and activities that represent some of the inhabitants of the area from prior to and after the establishment of the Fort.
]]>