Burial Site Of John Chisum
The East Texas Weekend Preview — In 1837, this teenage Tennessean would move into East Texas, with major success on the horizon.
After years spent as the county clerk of Lamar County, John Chisum’s claim to fame as a nationally celebrated cattle baron would begin as he took on the trade in 1854.
Developing his very own herd in Denton County, near present day Bolivar, he learned all of the skills necessary to win big in the industry.
Following the tail end of the Civil War, Chisum would become of the the first barons to move their herd West into New Mexico.
There, his success would grow tremendously, surpassing 100,000 head of cattle, as he partnered with other famed herdsmen like Charles Goodnight and Oliver Loving.
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Drama did not escape Chisum during his time out West. Especially with involvement in the Lincoln County War, a bloody affair of rival businesses. The local fighting even brought in the likes of Billy the Kid, famed outlaw. Although Billy sided with Chisum’s allies, things would turn sour after a strong disagreement between Billy and John over a $500 debt.
Years later, John Chisum would pass away from surgery/cancer complications in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, on December 22nd, 1884.
Chisum’s life and legacy was later portrayed throughout pop culture. The 1970 movie, Chisum, provides a window into his life, while being played by John Wayne! James Colburn also takes on the John Chisum role in the 1990 film, Young Guns II.
Today, you can visit his gravesite in Paris, TX.
Designated on it’s own plot of land, John’s towering memorial highlights his monumental influence on the cattle industry during his lifetime and beyond.
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Add some massive history into your weekend of fun in this East Texas city!
The resting place of John Chisum can be found at: 1109 W Washington St, Paris, TX 75460
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