Alva Everett Taylor
Corsicana, Navarro County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(July 19, 1891-Dec. 8, 1965) Grassroots researcher-writer and historical preservationist whose work led to development of this pioneer village. Born near Dawson (10 mi. SW), Taylor attended Baylor University (1911-13), married Maud Stockard (1914), and was father of 3 children. Farming, unsuccessful oil drilling in the 1920s boom, and other ventures formed his business career. From his youth, historical interest led him to do original research. He published several books and pamphlets, 1951-59. With Joe Daniel and others, he founded the Navarro County Historical Society in 1956, and this village in 1958.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Alva Everett Taylor (1891–1965) was a farmer and sometime oil driller near Dawson whose real passion was digging up the past. A lifelong grassroots researcher, he published books and pamphlets in the 1950s, helped found the Navarro County Historical Society in 1956, and in 1958 launched the pioneer village his work here made possible. His preservation drive turned scattered county history into a place people could walk through.
Why it matters
Taylor represents the amateur local historians whose stubborn fieldwork saved countless community stories that professional institutions overlooked.
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Related people
- · Alva Everett Taylor
- · Maud Stockard
- · Joe Daniel
Related events
- · Founding of Navarro County Historical Society
Themes & tags
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