News
Great Hanging Memorial Dedication Planned in Gainesville
The Great Hanging is a Texas Civil War era event of major historical significance. Now, the Great Hanging Memorial Foundation has planned a series of event on October 18, 2014 to commemorate the historic event that happened in October of 1862.
Although this event happened 152 years ago, scholars and lay persons still have difficulty in agreeing on the appropriate interpretation of the incident. Some contend the action of the civilian and military authorities that led to the hanging of forty men and the shooting deaths of two men attempting to escape was justified. Others argue the tragic incident was nothing more than vigilante mob violence.
Now, the public is invited to the formal dedication of two etched granite monuments, solar powered lighting and the memorial walkway that was made possible through private donations.
The day will begin with a luncheon on Saturday October 18, 2014 (11:30am - 1:00 pm) at the North Central Texas College Lions Field House in Gainesville. The lunch will be followed by a program "October Mourning" at the First State Bank Center for the Performing Arts, also located on the college campus. The monument dedication ceremony will begin at 3:00pm at the Georgia Davis Bass Memorial Park at 729 East Main Street near Downtown Gainesville.
Anyone having knowledge of descendants of the Great Hanging is encouraged to contact the foundation at 817-999-9551 or go to
Those planning to attend the luncheon need to RSVP by calling 817-946-4491