The story of the road and creek

                   

Yesterday, I drove down a road that never rushes me.  I enjoy this drive every time I travel on it.  This road never fails to whisper calmness.  

As the road stretched out in front of me, I so enjoyed seeing the bare branches that reached way overhead, creating a tunnel effect.  This isn't just any back road. This is a road where something historic once happened. There isn't a sign of any kind flashing details, but the weight of time certainly lingers here. 

I drove slowly.  Not because I had to, but because when Winter is here and the leaves are all gone, you can see through the woods so clearly.  I stopped and took a picture of a weathered gate that has clearly stood season after season. It was bent just enough to show its age, but yet it was still standing strong. Its things like this that excite me....I have a love for the old and a bit of rust makes me love it even more. 

    

And then.....there was a sheep!!

It was just resting like it had nowhere else to be and had all the time in the world.  It was completely unbothered.  Not one concern of a schedule or notification.  Just a sheep doing what sheep do. I couldn't help but smile. 

Nearby, is where the  quiet creek slips through the woods and its water was moving gently, catching sunlight in patches.  The trees along the banks of the creek stood like witnesses....silent, steady, rooted in stories older than all of us.  

The Story of the road and and the creek!!  ↓↓↓↓↓

Battle creek runs underneath this road.  This creek is where BATTLE OF THE NECHES took place.  This was a turning point in East Texas history. In 1839, forces of the Republic of Texas clashed with the Cherokee people led by Chief Bowles. 

The Cherokee were resisting removal from the land they had long called home. The battle ended with devastating consequences....the Cherokee were defeated, Chief Bowles was killed, and the tribe was forced to leave East Texas.  

It's hard for me to imagine that kind of turmoil that took place in this area.  Many local residents have found arrow heads as well as all kinds of clay pots and such, as they explored the creek.  

My husband (Sam) used to play in this creek as a young boy, not even realizing the history or the battle that took place on these grounds.  

Sure makes me sad to know that these people were once living their lives in peace and that this battle took it all away from them.  

Hope you enjoyed learning this bit of history that happened right here in my home town.  As for this old road....it is only about a mile from our home and every time I get a chance, I take this drive. 

Shug...