Mabel Gilbert

 
     Near Homesite of 
Mable Gilbert (1797 - 1870)


     First permanent settler in 
this area. Born in Tennessee, he 
was a steamboat captain. Came 
to Texas in 1837. Built mills and 
was first navigator of Trinity 
River headwaters. After filing 
for land in this vicinity in 1856, 
he built cabin near this spring 
and dug trench around homestead 
to keep out buffalo herds. His 
daughter Hettie was first white 
child known to have been born 
in the county (1860). Indian raids 
drove family away repeatedly.
     Twice married, Gilbert had 19 
children. Peach trees he planted 
here were for years a landmark 
used by incoming pioneers. 
                                               (1970)
     Located in the Perkins Boy Scout Camp, SH240 and FM1177, outside of Burkburnett, Texas. From the gate, drive on the hard surface road for 1/4-mile, which curves down and toward the left; then, turn left on a dirt road at the bottom of the hill. The marker is located 1/10th-mile. The marker stands in front of McFarland Springs. 
     GPS: 34-degrees 03' 26.4"  98-degrees 28' 29.5".
      For information about Mabel Gilbert published by the Handbook of Texas Online, click the button below.