Joseph Herrington in Huntington, Texas
historical marker
Joseph Herrington, an Alabama native, lived from 1823 to 1889. In 1845, Angelina County was organized. Herrington was one of six men appointed by the legislature to set boundary lines and select Marion as the first seat of government. That same year, at age 22, he was elected the county's first chief justice, serving five terms. His work improved trade routes and established county school districts, which were vital for the area's growth. An active Mason, Joseph Herrington is buried in the Herrington Family Cemetery. This historical marker, erected in 1982, notes his foundational role in Angelina County.