Wise County Historical Society, Inc.

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WISE COUNTY HISTORICAL SITES

Wise County Poor Farm and Cemetery

Old Reunion Road, South of Decatur, Texas 76234
From Decatur, take FM 730 south about 2 miles to CR 4181; head west on CR 4181 about .5 mile to Old Reunion Road; head north about 1.3 miles north on Old Reunion Road to marker.

Operated 1885-1962 to support and employ dependent or needy citizens and as place for county convicts to work out fines. First superintendent of the 320-acre farm, R. Suffert, managed all land and activities and his wife cooked, washed, and sewed for both inmates and guards. Of inmates buried in the now-leveled cemetery at bend of Center Creek, only names known are Steve Abbey, Sarah McCain, Jim Wilson, Jim M. Goodner, Bill Hodge; Rankin, Owens (surnames); Della, Edna, Ike, and Mariah. In 1969 county sold buildings and 12 acres of farm at auction.

Help us preserve local history. DONATE Members are the core of the Wise County Historical Society. For only $20 a year you can become a member and help us keep local history alive. You'll also receive our monthly newsletter, early notice of events, and other benefits! JOIN As a nonprofit organization, we primarily rely on donations from individuals and businesses. Any donation, large or small, is appreciated and will be used to help us preserve history and educate the community about our shared past. VOLUNTEER Our volunteers are what keep us going. We are always looking for people willing to help with a variety of tasks, including lawn care, office filing, staffing events, and many other things. If you would like to help out please reach out by clicking below. DONATE MEMBERSHIP VOLUNTEER We can't do it alone. With the tragic loss of the Wise County Heritage Museum building in 2023, we need your help more than ever. We continue to move forward and are working to restore the site to house important local artifacts and historical documents. Fortunately, there are many ways you can support us in this effort.