“History cannot give us a program for the future, but it can give us a fuller understanding of ourselves, and of our common humanity, so that we can better face the future,” wrote the American writer Robert Penn Warren.

The Wise County Historical Commission and Society Inc., works diligently to give residents a “fuller understanding” of themselves and their community. In fact, their efforts have won them back to back Distinguished Service Awards for Wise County in 2005 and 2006.

Their efforts continue through 2007 with several special events planned to raise funds for the continued restoration of the G.C. Rann Auditorium, a theater located on the second floor of the Wise County Heritage Museum. A new sound system was recently installed in the little theater and more upgrades are in the works.

In July, the Historical Society and Commission will hold a Potato Bake at the museum with bluegrass musicians performing on the lawn. They also held a variety show in the theater this spring and more are in the works. Add to that the annual Fall Out show in the fall.

The organization also continues to update and add to its museum exhibits. Chairperson Rosalie Gregg said they hope to display a new exhibit every three months.

One of the highlights of the museum is the exhibit dedicated to the Lost Battalion of World War II. Several of the soldiers captured by the Japanese and forced to build the infamous bridge over the River Kwai were Wise County natives.

One of the newest additions to the museum is the Sam Woody cabin situated on the front lawn. The cabin is purported to be the first dwelling built by a white settler in Wise County. Tennessee Pioneer Sam Woody constructed the cabin after arriving to the area in the 1840s. The cabin was moved to the museum grounds in October 2006.

The museum also houses a horde of historical documents related to the history of Wise County and its residents. It is a great place to track local genealogies.

Members of the Historical Commission and Society meet on the fourth Thursday of every month and the third Thursday in November. There is no meeting in August and December. They also take field trips to the many historic sites around the county. Eighty-six historical markers stand throughout the county.

Dues to join are $10 per year for one adult or $15 per year for husband and wife. Lifetime memberships are available for $150 per person.

For more information on the museum or the historical society and commission or to make a donation, write to P.O. Box 427, Decatur, Texas, 76234 or call (940) 627-3732 or visit the museum at 1602 S. Trinity in Decatur.