Historical Marker

William Madison McDonald

Historical marker location:
200 E Main, Forney, Texas
( Forney Sub-courthouse, 200 E. Main)
Marker installed: 2002
Marker size: 27" x 42"

William Madison McDonald

William Madison "Gooseneck Bill" McDonald was born in 1866 near Johnson Point, a small community southeast of Terrell. His parents, former slaves, were George McDonald, born in Tennessee, and Flora Scott McDonald, born in Alabama. His mother died when he was young, and his father remarried to Belle Crouch.

McDonald started school at age seven and graduated from high school in 1884. He had the reputation of being the smartest boy in all the area schools. During his youth, he worked for attorney and rancher Capt. Z.T. Adams, who took an interest in McDonald, lecturing him on business and law while he worked.

After graduating, McDonald was principal of the African American high school in Forney. His first wife, Alice Gibson McDonald, was a teacher there. He remained principal for several years.

McDonald was an early leader in Texas' Republican party as part of the "Black and Tan" faction, a group of whites and blacks who shared leadership roles. His political partnership with powerful businessman E.H.R. Green provided him a strong voice in state politics. In 1899, he became the right worshipful grand secretary of Texas' African American Masons, a position he held for almost 50 years.

McDonald moved in 1906 to Fort Worth, where he was a civic leader and businessman. He died in 1950 and is buried in Old Trinity Cemetery, part of Fort Worth's Oakwood Cemetery. Throughout his life, McDonald was a leader in the struggle for social justice, advocating persistence and civic and moral responsibility as the steps to equality.

(2002)

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

African American
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
Texas random facts
Kaufman County is situated in the northeastern part of Texas and has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Cherokee, and Comanche. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, and the county was officially established on March 24, 1848, named after David S. Kaufman, one of the earliest Texans to serve in the U.S. Congress.

During its early years, Kaufman County experienced growth and development, with agriculture playing a prominent role in the local economy. Farming and ranching became essential industries for the county, with cotton and livestock production leading the way. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further fueled the county's growth, connecting it to major cities and facilitating trade.

In the early 20th century, Kaufman County began to modernize rapidly. The advent of the automobile allowed for better transportation and communication networks, linking the county's rural communities. The development of infrastructure, including roads and highways, further enhanced connectivity between towns. Schools, hospitals, and businesses also experienced significant advancements during this time, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents.

Today, Kaufman County continues to thrive as a suburban county with a growing population. It boasts a mix of agricultural, industrial, and residential areas, offering a blend of rural charm and urban amenities. The county's rich history is celebrated through local museums, historical sites, and community events, reminding residents and visitors alike of the importance of preserving and cherishing its past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kaufman County, Texas.

  • 1848 - Kaufman County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1852 - The first courthouse is built in the county seat of Kaufman.
  • 1857 - The first newspaper, the Kaufman Herald, is established.
  • 1861-1865 - Kaufman County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1873 - Terrell is founded and becomes a major railroad hub.
  • 1886 - The Texas State Railroad extends its line into Kaufman County.
  • 1895 - The Kaufman County Courthouse is destroyed by fire and later rebuilt.
  • 1936 - Lake Ray Hubbard is created by the construction of the Rockwall-Forney Dam.
  • 1965 - Kaufman County celebrates its centennial.
  • 2013 - Tragically, Kaufman County District Attorney Mike McLelland and his wife Cynthia are assassinated.