When James McFarland arrived in Fannin County in 1837 with his wife Jane and their eleven children, he settled just north of the North Sulphur River and received 1280 acres from the Republic of Texas as a Class II grant. On that grant, the family buried their first dead as early as 1852.This family cemetery has been recognized by the state of Texas for its historical significance. The designation, reserved for cemeteries that are at least 50 years old and deemed worthy of preservation for their historic associations, means an Affidavit of Designation for Cemetery Purposes has been issued to the McFarland Cemetery and has been recorded in the Fannin County Clerk’s office.

In some rural areas, historic cemeteries are threatened by the absence of fencing, which allows cattle and other grazing animals to topple and disturb headstones. Urban expansion and vandalism often threaten historic cemeteries as well. The Historic Texas Cemetery designation was developed to address the destruction of historic cemeteries and the illegal removal of cemetery fixtures. Any individual or organization is eligible to submit an application for this designation. For more information, call 512-475-4167 or visit their website at http://www.thc.state.tx.us/ .

The formal dedication will take place on Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 2:00 p.m. There will be an indoor meeting at the Oak Ridge Church of Christ church before carpooling to the cemetery. Many McFarland descendants are journeying from as far away as Alaska to participate in the dedication, and the family welcomes any interested participants and relatives that have not already been contacted. If you wish to come, please contact Rhonda Shinpaugh at 903-367-7039, or Mary Helen Haines at 972-964-3363.