A Guide to Historic African American Communities in Burleson County
The Somerville Lake is operated by the Brazos River Authority for industrial, recreational, irrigation, and conservation role. Construction of the lake began in 1962. During this time, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and Texas Department of Transportation worked alongside the cemetery stewards and community at the time to erect and reintern burials to its current location. The lake extends across Burleson, Washington, and Lee Counties. However, locals note the existence of a Native American burial ground at the site of the lake today. Today, Somerville Lake is a popular tourist destination spot with award-winning bass fishing, camping facilities, park trials, and floating marinas. According to the TSHA, the lake name is from Austin Somerville- the first president of the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railway where a large crosstie existed in the town.
