Williams Cemetery

Photos and submitted by Gloria B. Mayfield, Cemeteries of TX(2003)

Location:- North of US Highway 79, one mile west of Fairplay.- Situated on a hillside near the original home of Pivines and John Williams Families, where Panola County's first Methodist Church was organized by Littleton Fowler at the Williams Home.- A small weather worn replica of the log church building which once stood there is at the back of the cemetery; and an official marble stone marks the place where Bethel Church stood.- That church was later moved to Fairplay and it is active as Allison's Chapel.- -

IIn 1952, descendants and interested citizens erected a memorial gate and large marble monument, with this tribute; "In memory of our Pioneer Forefather, 1837 1922.- Remains of John Allison rest here;- He was Panola County's First County Judge.

In 1952 other graves were numbered and a small marker was placed by each grave, bearing the assigned- number.- At that time a large memorial stone was erected with identification for as many graves as descendants could secure.- There are seven graves either child or grandchild of John & Betty Williams, 4 slaves of the Allison's and at least 40 known unmarked grave.

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