In the Texas Historical Commission’s May 2026 newsletter, they announced a list of 15 cemeteries that recently received the Historic Texas Cemetery (HTC) designation. I was proud to see that Arlington Cemetery made the list! It’s unknown if there will be a ceremony or further recognition, but if so, I plan to attend.

From the Texas Historical Commission’s newsletter
Grave Concerns in Texas (May 2026)

“The HTC designation is the first step toward preservation of a historic cemetery.”
—Texas Historical Commission

While Arlington Cemetery already has a Texas Historical Marker, the HTC designation is different, and in some ways, of even greater importance.

The HTC designation is an official recognition that helps protect historic cemeteries by aiding in preservation efforts. The cemetery’s status becomes more “official,” with the designation acting as a defense to ward off encroaching development. The cemetery also becomes documented more deeply in deed records, maps, and photographs, further aiding in long-term preservation.

A cemetery may be eligible if it is at least 50 years old and is deemed worthy by its historical associations. The associated medallion is highly coveted and well-respected by historians, preservationists, and taphophiles.

Arlington Cemetery includes several smaller cemeteries and additions within its boundaries; it is also adjacent to Parkdale Cemetery. The oldest documented burial in Arlington Cemetery is that of Mattie Luna Cooper (1874–1875), daughter of the pioneer Cooper family. Mattie’s burial predates the town itself, as Arlington was founded in 1876. The cemetery has many early settlers and pioneers buried there, in addition to veterans, postmasters, mayors, and other notable figures in our town’s history. The cemetery is over 10 acres in size, with more than 2,000 documented burials.

Arlington Cemetery joins others in our city with the designation of a Historic Texas Cemetery, including Hawkins Cemetery, Johnson Station Cemetery, and Middleton Tate-Johnson Family Cemetery—also known as the Arlington Heritage Memorial Grounds.

More information about the Historic Texas Cemetery Designation program can be found here.

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Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 05-23-26