Farmers Branch board advances cemetery cleanup and flag plans; explores Texas Historical Commission support for Marsh Bend Hill Cemetery

Thursday, June 26 — Board members reported progress on cemetery maintenance and restoration work at Kenan Cemetery and discussed outreach to conservation groups and the Texas Historical Commission about additional support for privately owned Marsh Bend Hill Cemetery.

A descendant of the Caldwell and Allsbrook family ordered and installed two new headstones for ancestors in Kenan Cemetery; board members inspected and confirmed those have been placed. Volunteers reported that many Memorial Day flags were damaged by rain; one board member said she will contact a local volunteer who can provide replacement flags at no charge.

The board is planning a headstone‑cleaning workshop in spring in partnership with the Plano Conservancy and volunteers, and the group discussed coordinating flag placements again for Veterans Day. Members also raised the privately owned Marsh Bend Hill Cemetery (referred to in discussion as “Marsh”); a surviving owner has expressed a desire to donate the property, but the board said the city has not accepted it because of the extensive work required.

Board members agreed it is worth asking the Texas Historical Commission about eligibility for historic cemetery restoration programs and possible funding; the transcript records a plan by a board member to contact THC to learn what programs or grants might be available. No formal commitments to accept private cemeteries were made during the meeting.