Marker Inscription
Only home in Texas for negro orphans for thirty years, 1900-1929. Founded by W. L. Dickson, Negro Baptist minister, only superintendent home ever had. Orphans remained here until they reached 21, unless adopted or indentured by good families. A choir of children made good-will trips to raise funds. In Aug., 1929, home was deeded to the state, together with 700 acres of land and 27 buildings. Name was then changed to the Gilmer State Orphanage for Negroes, which ran until 1943, when the children (about 180) moved to state home in Austin.
About this site
Site of the Pioneer Dickson Orphanage is a historical marker in Gilmer, Upshur County. It is one of 48 historical markers documented in Upshur County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 108 historic sites cataloged across the county.
The site sits at 32.7165, -94.9429 near Gilmer. The nearest cataloged historic site is Dickson Colored Orphanage Cemetery (cemetery), about 0.1 miles away. Others within a short drive include Gilgal Baptist Church, Indian Village, and Croley Funeral Home.
This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5459011306. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.
