“When this you see, think of me. Come oh come to me.” This short message and the dates 1854 and January 20, 1885 are all that identify one tombstone located near the back of the Mt. Zion Cemetery outside of Burton, Texas. Who was this person and what was their earthly story that ended at the young age of 31? The grave is nestled near the Morriss family plot and is one of many graves in the cemetery that hold more questions than answers for visitors. And yet many of us are drawn to the quiet beauty of such tombstones and all of the mysteries held within this hallowed ground.
And on the opposite end of the spectrum, the cemetery also offers a wealth of information for the historian and the family genealogist. From the grand monument erected to honor Captain Leander McNelly, Texas Ranger to the simple tombstone that marks the grave of young Lee Morriss who was shot in the Steiner-Dallmeyer store… the cemetery is truly a valuable historical resource.
In a few short weeks, you can visit the cemetery in person and discover for yourself its’ history and beauty at the Mt. Zion Tombstone Tales on Sunday, October 30 from 6:30-8:30pm hosted by the Burton Heritage Society. This family-friendly event will introduce visitors to both cemetery history and a few stories of those buried there. All proceeds from the event will fund the restoration of the Mt. Zion Historical Chapel which is also located at the cemetery. The building is now the community’s oldest existing church structure and likewise a critical historical resource worthy of preservation.
So come join us and learn more about just a few of the many mysteries held within this wonderful site. Who knows? Maybe you can help us solve one!