PHASE ONE

The Camp Ford Historical Association, Inc. is embarked on a three phase effort for the construction of the Camp Ford Historical Center. The first phase entailed the purchase of a two and one-half acre tract that was once part of the Camp Ford encampment. This property contains buildings that will be remodeled to become part of the Center. The site, when fully developed, will include an interpretive center, a picnic area and adequate parking for the estimated 25,00 to 30,000 annual tourist visits and an additional 25,00 local visitors. This purchase has been made by the CFHA board. The proximity of the land and buildings to the Camp Ford site afforded the Camp Ford Historical Association a unique, once in a lifetime opportunity to move forward toward the long-range preservation and interpretation of this national historic treasure through the Camp Ford Historical Center. With the purchase of this land, Phase Two began.

PHASE TWO

The existing buildings will be renovated to include: CAMP FORD VISITORS CENTER A fully equipped tourist center with restrooms, vending machines, gift shop, displays of other area tourist attractions and a picnic area. CAMP FORD MUSEUM A museum to house quality exhibits on Camp Ford and allied exhibits on Civil War History. Space will be allocated for appropriate travelling exhibits and special exhibits of area historical interest. CAMP FORD AUDITORIUM/MEETING ROOM A fully furnished combination Auditorium and Meeting Room, with state of the art audio/visual equipment for special presentations to tourists, school children and local organizations. Auditorium seating for up to 400 visitors is anticipated and when utilized as a fully functional meeting room it is planned to accommodate up to 200 people for luncheons or special events. A catering kitchen for food service will enhance utilization by civic groups, convention groups and community organiza- tions.

PHASE THREE

Archeological Laboratory This one of a kind facility will provide the site with a research center to restore civil war artifacts. It is anticipated that a working arrangement with a state university will allow for on-site student interns to assist in the collection, reclamation and preservation of artifacts found at Camp Ford and other Texas and Regional sites of historical importance. The facilities will be made available to all museums and not restricted to Civil War artifacts. OPERATIONS AND ENDOWMENT The board has set as a future goal the creation of a major endowment to provide annual operating fund income. Earnings will be used for the on-going maintenance and operation of the Camp Ford Historical Center.

Camp Ford Historical Association, Inc.
P.O. Box 1865
Tyler, Texas 75710