Burkeville, Texas facts for kids
Burkeville is an unincorporated community in northern Newton County, Texas, United States. It sits at the intersection of State Highways 63 and 87 10 miles west of the Sabine River. The Burkeville Independent School District serves the resident students.
Historical development
The town was named for John R. Burke, a well-educated and wealthy man from New York who took up residence there. The town also served as an arsenal of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Agriculture and trade would keep the economy prospering until the lumber industry would add to the local market. In 1906, a catastrophic fire consumed all of the town's businesses excluding one.
Recreation
The nearby Toledo Bend Reservoir is used for recreation by the locals as well as tourists and freshwater fishing enthusiasts.
Burkeville has a long-standing tradition of football excellence the state of Texas. The Burkeville Mustangs won state in football in 1986 and 2001 in class 1A.
Notable people
Ernie Holmes- Former NFL defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers (1971-1977) and New England Patriots (1978) and 2x Super Bowl champion. He was part of the legendary Steel Curtain Pittsburgh Steelers' defense along with fellow linemen Joe Greene, Dwight White, and L. C. Greenwood.
Robert Hunt- NFL Offensive Lineman for the Miami Dolphins
