by Frederica Wyatt
Kimble County Historical Museum, located at 101 North Fourth Street in downtown Junction, is housed in a picturesque building constructed and owned by Burt M. Fleming Post #237 of the American Legion.
Hands-on construction of the building was initiated by members of the Post on October 18, 1938, and by November 3 of that year, the Legionnaires voted to sponsor a museum in their new home. The museum endeavor was discontinued, but remnants of the collection are still a part of the historical displays.
Among interesting features of the building are cement blocks imbedded in the interior walls. The blocks contain wartime memorabilia brought home from France following Armistice Day in 1918. Other military items from later wars are an important part of the current museum collection.
The idea for a historical museum was a part of the plans for Kimble County Historical Survey Committee, and in 1963 and 1964, exhibits of nearly 800 historic items were displayed. By 1965, the American Legion Post granted permission to use their “hut” for a museum. A local news item reflected, “Members of the Post are assisting with getting the building ready for occupancy as a museum and are whole-heartedly supporting this project.”
The museum officially opened March 13, 1966, and has been staffed by volunteers since that date. For the ensuing twenty-eight years, the museum was opened for special tours but regular hours were on Sunday afternoons during summer months.
Special events, including “branding days,” took place at the museum. Panels containing many local stock brands remain an interesting part of the museum display.
Among current items on display are historic documents and photographs, newspapers, pioneer tools, household items, paintings, Indian relics, military artifacts, fossils, and primitive art.
The museum, sponsored by Kimble Historical Commission, is the repository for local historical and genealogical data. One of the free services offered by the museum is assistance with family research. Throughout the years, many groups including conventioneers, Elderhostel attendees, scout troops, clubs, and school classes, as well as countless individual visitors, have toured the museum.
In 1994, the museum opened its doors for five days a week, Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to noon and from 2 to 5 p.m. Weekend visits to the museum can be arranged by appointment, and there is no admission charge.
101 North 4th St.
Junction, Texas 76849
Phone: (915) 446-4219