Historical Marker

Berea Community

Marker installed: 2013
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

In 1913, citizens of Jefferson, through the secretary of their Progressive Club, began to discuss the establishment of a Seventh - Day Adventist colony and school in this part of Marion County. Elder E.B. Hopkins (1854-1941), the minister of the Seventh-Day Adventist church, persuaded his friend, W.A. McCutchen, to help. McCutchen was, at the time, president of the north Texas conference of Seventh-Day Adventists and used his personal funds to purchase 1770 acres near the Black Cypress Bayou. The property was conveyed to the Texas Conference Association of Seventh-Day Adventists on June 21, 1915. McCutchen then attracted settlers with land and educational opportunities for their children.

The community was named “Berea” alluding to the city mentioned in the book of Acts in the Bible. Work started immediately on a school and church. The original Berea Seventh-Day Adventist School opened in 1914 and consisted of three rooms. In 1916, due to increased enrollment, the school building was expanded. Over the years, the school underwent numerous periods of growth and operated under various names, including Berea Junior Academy and Jefferson Junior Academy. The church also met in this building for a time until a sanctuary was built in 1954-56. After serving many years, the school was dismantled and new buildings were erected in 1985. The elementary school across the street has also been in continuous operation since 1914. Although the community was never recorded as a town site, the Berea community has continued to maintain a viable presence in Marion county

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.

cities and towns
The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Marion County, located in the eastern part of Texas, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1860. The county was named after Francis Marion, a Revolutionary War hero known as the "Swamp Fox."

The early settlement in Marion County was primarily driven by the sawmill industry, as many settlers arrived to exploit the vast pine forests in the area. Lumber became a major source of economic growth, leading to the establishment of several sawmills and the development of a thriving logging community. However, the decline of the timber industry in the early 20th century had a significant impact on the county's economy.

During the Civil War, Marion County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others supporting the Union. The county saw several skirmishes between Confederate and Union forces, with the town of Jefferson acting as an important Confederate supply depot. After the war, many of the county's plantations were abandoned, and former slaves faced economic and social challenges.

In the 20th century, Marion County experienced a revival in its economy through the tourism industry. The historic town of Jefferson, with its well-preserved architecture and rich history, became a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience the charm of the Old South. Today, Marion County boasts a thriving tourism sector, attracting visitors with its historic sites, museums, festivals, and recreational activities in its beautiful natural surroundings.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Marion County, Texas.

  • 1837: Marion County is established by the Republic of Texas.
  • 1841: Jefferson is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1845: Texas becomes a state.
  • 1861-1865: Marion County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1867: Marion County votes against secession from the United States.
  • 1873: Texas and Pacific Railway completes a railroad line through the county.
  • 1905: A new courthouse is built in Jefferson.
  • 1937: The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county.
  • 1969: The Texas Historical Commission designates Jefferson as a National Historic Landmark.
  • 1984: Jefferson is named the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas."