Arts and Entertainment

The Williams House Museum

The Williams House Museum, built in 1885, was originally a railroad section house.  That meant that a section foreman lived in the house and was responsible for the maintenance of several miles of railroad track.  Jim Williams was the section foreman and his family owned the house for many years.

Since becoming a museum in 1992, the building has been home to a wealth of local artifacts and memorabilia.  The displays honor De Kalb men and women, as well as, several celebrities, such as Dan Blocker (Hoss Cartwright of Bonaza), who was born and is also buried in De Kalb.  Another tribute is for Ricky Nelson, a rock and roll singer, who was killed in a plane crash in the community in 1985.  The tail section of his plane is on display.  Other notables are major league baseball players, Luke Walker and Rac Slider, as well as, umpire Durwood Merrill.

The museum has one area dedicated to the military and another to local physicians, nurses and dentist.  Many old homes and businesses are represented throughout the house and the kitchen is sure to bring back fond memories of times past.  A separate building houses memorabilia from De Kalb and other area schools.

The museum is kept open by volunteers on Friday and Saturday afternoons or by appointment at any time.  there is no admission charge, but donations are appreciated.  Call Carolyn at 903-667-3344 or 903-748-1698 for more information or an appointment.

 

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