Thomas Edison Dixon, M.D.
Historical marker location:(1890-1958) Thomas Edison Dixon, M.D., was an African-American physician committed to serving God and his community in a time dominated by white men. Dixon, or "Tommy" to friends and family, was born in August 1890 in Hearne, Texas. He first attended Bishop College in Marshall and then Meharry Medical College in Nashville in 1912. After graduating in 1916, he was granted a medical license in the State of Texas and began practicing medicine in Mart, Texas. Around 1927, Dixon relocated his practice to downtown Temple during a time when there were minimal health care services for African-Americans. It was here that he gave special attention to pediatrics and obstetrics. In addition to his professional work, Dixon played a prominent role in the community's churches and organizations. He was chairman of the board of trustees and deacon of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, a regular contributor to many of Temple's black churches, and was also involved with the Boy Scouts, the Negro Civic League and the Progressive Voters League. Specific instances of his influence on the community include his sizable contribution with other physicians to the NAACP's "Fighting Fund for Freedom" in 1954, which aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in the U.S., and his sale of building sites to the city at reasonable costs for the purpose of constructing schools. At the time of his death, Dixon was the only African-American physician practicing in Bell County. Dr. Dixon dedicated his life to the people of Temple for almost 30 years and is remembered for being driven by love and a profound sense of duty. 175 Years of Texas Independence * 1836-2011
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.
The city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
The county was officially established in 1850 and named after Governor Peter H. Bell. It quickly grew as more settlers arrived to take advantage of the fertile land and abundant natural resources. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became the primary industry in the region, with the first cotton gin built in 1853. The county also became an important shipping point due to its proximity to the Chisholm Trail, which was used to drive cattle to markets in the north.
During the Civil War, Bell County played a significant role in supporting the Confederate cause. Several Confederate camps were established in the area, and the county experienced some military action, including the Battle of Stampede Valley in 1863. After the war, the county began to recover and diversify its economy. The railroad arrived in the late 19th century, bringing further growth and development.
In the 20th century, Bell County continued to experience growth and modernization. Fort Hood, one of the largest military installations in the country, was established in 1942. The presence of the military base provided a significant economic boost to the county and continues to be a major employer and contributor to the local economy. Today, Bell County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and military-related industries.
Bell County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bell County, Texas.
- 1834 - Bell County is established by the Republic of Texas
- 1850 - The first permanent settlement, known as Nolanville, is established
- 1851 - A post office is established in the town of Belton
- 1852 - The county seat is moved from Nolanville to Belton
- 1858 - The Belton Female College is founded
- 1861-1865 - Bell County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War
- 1870 - The Houston and Texas Central Railway arrives in Bell County, boosting economic growth
- 1881 - The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor is founded in Belton
- 1892 - The town of Temple is established as a railroad town
- 1913 - The Santa Fe Railroad builds a major railroad station in Temple
- 1920s - Bell County experiences an oil boom
- 1957 - Construction begins on the Fort Hood military base
- 1980s - Bell County's economy diversifies with the growth of healthcare and technology industries
- 2005 - The Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery is established in Killeen