in a Pecan ShellThe
town’s namesake was South Carolinian Washington Steward, owner of the area’s first
gristmill. Settlement was 1849. Dr. James I. Bonner opened a general in 1867 and
a post office was granted in 1872. The post office closed in 1914 and mail was
routed through Kirvin.
The population was
just 55 in the late 1930s and by the late 60s it had declined to a mere 22. That
number continues to be used on the state map in 2008. Today only a few houses
remain along with a church and cemetery. The store became a Texas historic landmark
in 1964, and the church in 1965.
sanctuary is one of the oldest church buildings in Freestone County. People of
the Stewards Mill community held church services in private homes or in the schoolhouse
prior to its construction. On Oct. 7, 1876, the Awalts, Bonners, Robinsons, Stewards,
Watsons and others met to form an organization to erect a church building to be
used by different denominations on different days. On Dec. 9, 1876, Rev. Thomas
Joel Bonner preached the first sermon in the newly built church, and afterwards
the Texas Presbytery of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church organized here.
The front-gabled rectangular plan church features board and batten siding and
paired entry doors with transom lights.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-1965
Mill Store, 1869In
settlement begun 1849 at Washington Steward's grist mill-- only one in area. Later
had post office, brick plant, sawmill and county's first phone exchange. Still
owned by heirs of early partner. Doorstep is original millstone. 1964 fixtures
include first counters, bins, cabinets.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-1964
Escapes, in its purpose to preserve historic, endangered and vanishing
Texas, asks that anyone wishing to share their local history and vintage/historic/contemporary
photos of their town, please contact
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