Just who is the Forney Historic Preservation League and what do we do?

Purpose - Accomplishments - Challenges - Participation

2003-2004 Accomplishments

PURPOSE

Initially organized to fight a proposed zoning change in one of the town's historic residential neighborhoods, the FHPL early on expanded its focus.

1. To identify and document historic sites, structures, objects and districts in and about the City of Forney, Kaufman County, Texas; and to engage in activities which will preserve those sites, structures, objects and districts.
   

2. To develop detailed plans for the preservation of historic structures, sites and objects and for future development within the designated historic districts.
   

3. To research and publish educational materials on the history and architecture of said structures, sites, objects and districts.

4. To increase the community's awareness and appreciation of its heritage as reflected in its historic structures, sites, objects and districts.

5. To maintain and operate historic places for the public benefit.

6. To acquire, restore and sell endangered historic structures, sites, etc. to prevent their demolition.

7. To promote through the establishment and operation of a museum program that will bring about a better understanding and appreciation in the community of the history, culture and natural environment of the Forney area.

8. To conduct any and all other business necessary for the implementation of the foregoing purposes.

• A professionally prepared Survey of Historic Resources to assist city planners in decisions regarding zoning and thoroughfare construction.
  
  
• Publication of Forney Country: A History of Northwestern Kaufman County, Texas, by Jerry M. Flook.
  
  
• Establishment of the Spellman Museum of Forney History.

OUR CHALLENGES

• The threat to the town's historic landmarks from pressures for thoroughfare construction and for commercial development in old residential neighborhoods.
  
  
• The loss of retail activity in the historic business district and the accompanying deterioration of the old commercial buildings.
  

If you are interested in the efforts of the Forney Historic Preservation League in conserving the town's heritage and wish to lend your support, we invite you to join us.

Currently, we are looking for people who are interested, not only in preservation, but in the development of our new museum. We need people who could spare a few minutes to a few hours to help promote awareness of the museum and its needs, including advertising, professional services, and donations. Both monetary and artifact donations will be accepted.

Dues are $15 yearly per membership, made payable and remitted to this address:

Forney Historic Preservation League
P.O. Box 317
Forney, TX 75126

See what the League has done:

• A computer and software program were purchased for the Spellman Museum record keeping.
• Published calendars of historic homes and other buildings.
• Presented a plaque to SBC in appreciation for the tasteful design of its expanded facility on W. Trinity St.
• Adopted a position of opposition to the rezoning of the First Baptist Church property and the proposed widening of S. Bois d'Arc St. The League sponsored a public meeting with the count TxDOT engineer on the issue of the street widening.
• The Museum and League have been more involved than ever before in the local history curriculum in the elementary schools, conducting tours of the museum and prsenting special programs on historical topics to second- and third-graders.
• Prepresentatives of the League are meeting with the P&Z Commission in discussions of the feasibility of the City taking the initiative in establishment of one or more historic districts and the revitalization of old downtown.
• The FHPL recedntly voted to donate $250 toward defraying the considerable expense of the new computerized Jackrabbit Community Announcement Sign. The sign performs an important service for the League in announcing its special events.
• This website was established in 2003. It has already been used as a Webquest by local school children.
• Jerry Flook's Forney Country continues to sell well.
• Purchased the old hardware store at 200 S. Bois d'Arc St. to use as a future museum.

What's up and coming?
We are currently working on another Tour of Historic Homes. If you live in Forney and wish to have your Historic Home considered for the tour, please contact us at historicforney@gmail.com.

"When we lose an historic place, we lose a part of who we are."
-National Trust for Historic Preservation