FREESTONE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

FAIRFIELD, TX

Bethel Cemetery Originally part of a Mexican land grant awarded to Jose de Jesus Grande in 1828, land at this site was later granted to early area settler Henry Rampy. Rampy, who had come to this part of Texas in 1848, deeded 5 acres of his land in 1859 for a community cemetery and church.

The earliest significant settlement of pioneers in the Bethel area came in 1846. By 1852, the community was thriving and a post office was established. The Bethel Cemetery was used largely by residents of the town and by settlers in other parts of Anderson and Henderson Counties. The earliest marked grave, that of M.B. Hodge, is dated 1862. Her husband, the Rev. Robert Hodge, who also is buried here, was a pioneer Cumberland Presbyterian minister. He was instrumental in the founding of the Science Hill academy, an important early educational institution in this part of the state. Other early settlers and their descendants are buried here, as are a number of Confederate veterans.

The Bethel community began to decline after the end of the Civil War and was largely gone by the time the post office was discontinued in 1914. This cemetery is the only significant remnant of the once-thriving Anderson County community. 

(1985)
Bethel Cemetery Credit: QuesterMark

Freestone County Historical Museum is located in Fairfield, Texas and is dedicated to preserving the history of the county and its people. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that showcase the history of the region.

The museum features exhibits that cover a range of topics, including the history of the county's early settlers, local agriculture, and the impact of the railroad on the region. Visitors can also learn about the Civil War and the role that Freestone County played in the conflict.

One of the museum's most notable exhibits is the Veterans Memorial Room, which honors the men and women from the area who have served in the armed forces. The room features displays of military uniforms, medals, and photographs, as well as a Wall of Honor that recognizes local veterans.

The museum also offers educational programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours. Visitors can also explore the museum's gift shop, which sells books, souvenirs, and other items related to the history of Freestone County.

Overall, Freestone County Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Texas and the role that this region played in shaping the state's rich cultural heritage.

FREESTONE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM is a History Museum in FAIRFIELD TX. US MID #8404801786

The museum is classed as HST (History Museums). It comes under American Alliance of Museums (AAM) region: Mount Plains (Colorado, Kansas, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wyoming). Total revenue from most recent IRS 990 Form: $ 68,275 from tax period 201309 (YYYYMM).

Contact FREESTONE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

FREESTONE COUNTY HISTORICAL AND MUSEUM BOARD
PO BOX 524
FAIRFIELD
TX
75840-0009

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FREESTONE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Information

MID # 8404801786
Name FREESTONE COUNTY HISTORICAL AND MUSEUM BOARD
Alternate Name FREESTONE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Classification History Museums, , Mount Plains
Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) 752882186
NTEECC A54
Tax period of the latest return filed (YYYYMM) 201309
INCOME 68,275
REVENUE 68,275
LAT/LONG 31.725168, -96.158019
CODES FIPS State Code: 48
FIPS County Code: 161
US Census Tract: 000200
US Census Block: 1043