Magnolia Cemetery: 1847 to the Present – Where the History of Beaumont Lives

The lecture panel consisting of Kelli Maness, Paul Prosperie, and Judy Linsley will share the history, current state, and interesting stories of the Magnolia Cemetery, created in the 1840s by William McFaddin. Veterans, community leaders, and local characters are interred in the cemetery among an array of interesting stone monuments and markers. A guided cemetery tour, by reservation, is  offered Friday, November 11, 2022.

Kelli Maness, President of the Magnolia Cemetery Board of Directors, has been involved with and supported Beaumont organizations for over 50 years. Through her relationships and experiences in our community, Kelli’s passion for preserving and promoting the history of our area drives her work and advocacy for the Magnolia Cemetery. Kelli believes that “remembering and honoring those before us is not only about our history, but a reflection of who we are and what we value.”

Paul Prosperie is the Cemetery-chair of the Jefferson County Historical Commission. Paul volunteers his time with numerous local preservation organizations. Paul has helped plan and conduct a historical tour of Magnolia Cemetery in Beaumont each October. The tour is free to the public and provides a history lesson of our area through the lives of past residents.

Judith W. Linsley, is a well known local and community historian who serves as the McFaddin-Ward House Research Assistant. She is the former Director of Education and Interpretation. She also served in the role of Director for the Center for History and Culture at Lamar University. Judy has authored and co-authored numerous historical works, including the award-winning Giant Under the Hill: A History of the Spindletop Oil Discovery.