W. Goodrich Jones (1860-1950)
Temple, Bell County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Known as "Father of Forestry in Texas." Came to Temple, 1888, as a banker. Planted first tree (a pecan) in town; this led to establishing Arbor Day in Texas in 1889, through legislation introduced by Sen. Geo. W. Tyler. In 1914 Jones organized Texas Forestry Association, which saw creation of Texas Department of Forestry, signed into law in 1915 by Gov. James E. Ferguson. For 60 years, Jones advocated conservation. A state forest at Conroe and this park bear his name. A fellowship in Forestry Conservation and Research has been established by his family. (1970)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Known as the "Father of Forestry in Texas," W. Goodrich Jones arrived in Temple as a banker in 1888 and planted the town's first tree — a pecan — an act that led him to champion Arbor Day in Texas in 1889. In 1914 he founded the Texas Forestry Association, whose work brought about the state Department of Forestry the following year. Across six decades Jones tirelessly preached conservation, and a state forest and a park now carry his name.
Why it matters
Jones brought the Progressive Era's conservation movement to Texas, helping establish public forestry at a time when the nation was awakening to the need to husband its natural resources.
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Related people
- · W. Goodrich Jones
- · George W. Tyler
- · James E. Ferguson
Related events
- · Establishment of Arbor Day in Texas
Themes & tags
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