Local Family Farm Recognized With Historical Marker
Descendants of Taylor and Lucy Dirden gather around the historical marker about the couple and the family farm. Photo by Michelle Dillon/Jacksonville Progress.
News coverage from the Jacksonville Progress by Michelle Dillon.
A historical marker for the Taylor and Lucy Dirden Farm was revealed Saturday. Prior to the reveal, Steph Dirden hosted a presentation, “From Slavery to Farm Legacy,” featuring family history and information on how the marker was obtained.
A portion of the program provided stated, “On May 7, 1880, Taylor and Lucy Dirden established the family homestead – defying the odds faced by African Americans seeking land ownership in one of Jacksonvillle’s most desirable areas. Their perseverance laid the foundation for a legacy that continues today, with each generation honoring their pride and resolve.”
Stacy Dirden Thirkill (from left), Steph Dirden and his wife Corrine read information about Taylor and Lucy Dirden and their five children. Photo by Michelle Dillon/Jacksonville Progress.
Steph Dirden, along with his wife and sister, read details about Taylor and Lucy Dirden, who originally purchased the farm, and their children. Dirden also introduced the day’s VIPs, people who provided assistance in his journey to learn more about his family property and eventually obtain the historical marker. After introducing each individual, Dirden explained the role each one had played.
The program also featured special music, a dance and a proclamation from Jacksonville Mayor Randy Gorham naming May 7, 2025, “Taylor and Lucy Dirden Day.”
Dedication Celebration
Contact us to request an invitation to The Dirden Farm Historical Marker Dedication Celebration on Saturday, April 19, 2025, in Jacksonville, Texas.
Farm History
Read more about the Dirden story in our visual record of farm milestones, from 1848 to today.
Experience the Past; Embrace the Future
Old Well Discovery
An old brick well found on the property gives a glimpse into life on The Dirden Farm in the early days. Find out more about the Dirden family and the farm's history in the timeline.
Clearing the Property
After decades of inactivity, work to clear the farm began in late 2023. The farm has been declared a Texas historical property as one of the oldest former slave-owned properties in the state.
Steph and Corrine Dirden
Steph and Corrine were featured in the October 2023 issue of Neighbors of Lakeway & Bee Cave magazine. Steph traced his family tree, discovering ancestors he never knew existed.
Lift Every Voice
Enjoy this highlight reel taken during the Dirden Farm Historical Marker Dedication Celebration, held on April 19, 2025. We are blessed and uplifted by all who supported this monumental effort!
The events of the day are memorialized in the beautifully-designed program.