Established in 1889, this reunion ground arose in an era when Texas looked to Civil War veterans for state leadership. It was one of numerous parks on river banks and other favored sites that drew large annual encampments where statesmen gave speeches and old soldiers delivered orations amid memorial programs, reviews, and concerts. In 1892, the camp purchased this 70-acre tract, sold lots to shareholders, and named streets for Lee, Jackson, and other heroes. During the week of the full moon each August, members came to encampments, set up housekeeping in tents, shacks, or brush arbors, and entertained while feasting on fried chicken, barbecue, brunswick stew, sweet potato pie, and watermelons. Special trains ran for years from Fort Worth, Dallas, and Houston, and in peak years 5,000 people assembled here. Until 1940, the dawn and dusk salutes fired by Old Val Verde, a Civil War cannon, were heard far into neighboring counties. Besides honoring Confederate veterans, the encampments were also occasions for family reunions. After the Mexia oil boom began in 1920, Col. A.E. Humphreys, a leader in petroleum development, built club facilities and promoted use of the park. The reunion grounds remained dedicated to the memory of the late Confederate veterans.