Rootseekers press release
Our speaker at the last meeting of the Rootseekers Genealogical Society was Phyllis Vermillion of the Henderson County Historical Commission in Athens. The Commission is located in the Old Jail at 201 East Larkin Street in Athens one block North from the courthouse. It is open on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 to 5. They have the genealogical papers of Bill Randolph. Phillis told us of 7,200 old marriage records that they would like to see given to family members. These records cover Van Zandt, Smith, Anderson, Henderson, Navarro and Kaufman Counties. All you have to do is fill out an application and tell how you are related to receive the marriage record. These records were never picked up after they were recorded, they begin in 1893. They even have Civil War pension records. They have a treasure trove of Historical Records. They approve the over 16,000 historical markers in the State of Texas. These are the markers you will see on the side of roads, parks, cemeteries and old homes and courthouses. To get one of these markers you must do your research and the Commission will even help you. Check out their webs site at Hendersoncountyhistoricalcommission.com
Their mission in accordance with the State Historical Commission is to protect and preserve Henderson County’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use , education, enjoyment and economic benefit of present and future generations. Members are appointed by the Henderson County Commissioners Court to serve two year terms.
Phillis says her mother was from Mabank and graduated High School here. Phillis was a teacher then school librarian. After she retired in 2008 she decided she did not like it and that was when she went to work for the Commission and she has been with them ever since and loves the work.
The Rootseekers meetings are always held at the Tri-County Library on the third Monday of each month at 7pm. Anyone who has even wondered who and where they came from is welcome to join us. Tuesday mornings from 9:30 to noon someone will be in the genealogy room to help if they can with your research.