Weeping Mary Community

Freed African Americans organized the Weeping Mary Community following the Civil War. Two sisters who were born into slavery, Nancy (Ross) Lockhart and Emily (Ross) Skinner, purchased the land on which the settlement developed. The community and church at Weeping Mary were likely named for Mary Magdalenes weeping at the tomb of Jesus, though local folklore suggests other possible origins for the name. This historic area is located on a section of El Camino Real, roads developed by Native Americans and used by Spanish soldiers, pioneers and others throughout Texas history. As with most communities founded by freedpersons, in Weeping Mary most residents engaged in farming. Many were employed on farms in neighboring Wallace Town. Others would later work at the Indian Mounds Nursery, operated by the Texas Forest Service, and in other labor-intensive jobs. Children attended a school in the settlement by the late 1800s. The school had an enrollment of 40 in 1896. When it closed during World War II, students began attending school in Alto. Religious and social life centered on Weeping Mary Baptist Church. The congregations earliest structure was in Wallace Town. In 1957, a flood damaged the church building and members rebuilt it at this location. Weeping Mary Baptist Church continues to be a focal point for area residents, and remains active today, serving a community rich in heritage and tradition. (2008)