Tucked inside Harry Myers Park, the Rockwall County Historical Foundation Museum offers visitors something increasingly rare: a chance to slow down and connect with the stories that shaped the place they call home. Operated by the Rockwall County Historical Foundation, the museum is a living reminder that local history is not just something to remember, but something to experience.
The foundation was organized on January 16, 1978, with a clear purpose: to collect, preserve, and share the history of Rockwall County. Guided by the belief that the past should be preserved for the future, the foundation works to restore significant places, educate the public, and recognize the people who helped shape the community. At its heart, the organization exists to connect the past to the present, ensuring these stories continue to inform and inspire future generations.
Today, the foundation owns and operates multiple historic buildings on the museum grounds, including the Bailey House, the Manson-LaMoreaux-Hartman House, and the Tenant Cabin. Each structure tells a distinct chapter of Rockwall County’s story and invites visitors to step inside history rather than simply read about it.
The Bailey House, built around 1909, began its life as a private home before later serving as a dental office. In 2017, it was moved to the museum grounds and carefully restored, including the return of two original fireplaces that had once been removed. Named for Titus “Tite” Bailey and his wife Lucy Estelle Curry Bailey, the home tells a powerful story of resilience. After being widowed with four young daughters, Lucy went on to become the first female elected County Clerk in Rockwall, a legacy that still resonates today.
The Manson-LaMoreaux-Hartman House carries an equally remarkable history. Originally a modest dogtrot-style home, it became a center for medicine and civic leadership. Dr. Henry “Hal” Walker Manson practiced medicine there while serving in the Texas House of Representatives and publishing Rockwall’s first newspaper. Later, the home was occupied by Dr. Jessie Castle LaMoreaux, one of the first female dentists in Texas, whose groundbreaking career is recorded at the museum.
No visit would be complete without learning about the mysterious rock wall that gave Rockwall its name. While the original formation lies deep underground, reconstructed sections allow visitors to experience the intrigue firsthand. With multiple natural outcroppings of the wall throughout the county, it is theorized that up to 20 miles of wall exists underground. The mystery surrounding its origins has fascinated geologists, historians, and residents since its discovery in 1852.
Beyond exhibits, the museum hosts guided and self-guided tours, family programs, and monthly lectures through the Sheri Stodghill Lecture Series, honoring a devoted advocate for local history. Together, these offerings make the Rockwall County Historical Foundation Museum a place of connection, curiosity, and community pride.
Visiting the museum is more than a history lesson. It is a celebration of the people, perseverance, and stories that continue to shape Rockwall County today.
To enjoy local history, visit the museum Thursday through Saturday every week from 10am - 3pm, and Sundays from 1-4pm. Please note that the last tour is 30 minutes before closing. The museum is located at 901 E Washington St., Rockwall, TX 75087. Find more details at www.rockwallcountymuseum.com