Community rallies to preserve historic Collins Cemetery

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the historical significance and current challenges facing Collins Cemetery, the oldest cemetery in Alice, Texas. Established in the late 19th century, the cemetery is the final resting place for notable figures, including Jasper Adams, a pioneer of the area, and Archilis Dotson, a veteran of the Texas Revolution. The cemetery also honors Alonso Perales, a civil rights advocate and founder of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), whose burial there is marked by a historical marker recognizing his contributions.

The meeting highlighted the cemetery's deteriorating condition, with overgrown grass and a lack of maintenance attributed to the absence of descendants for many of those interred. Officials expressed concern over the upkeep of the site, which is located at the intersection of Flournoy and Sain Drive, adjacent to active railroad tracks.

Collins Cemetery's ownership status is also in question, as records from the Jim Wells County appraisal district indicate that no individual or entity currently claims ownership of the property. This lack of ownership complicates efforts to maintain the cemetery and preserve its historical significance.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for community involvement and potential solutions to address the cemetery's maintenance issues, ensuring that the legacy of those buried there is honored and preserved for future generations.