General-
Originally settled in 1852 when the railroad reached the area northeast of Cleburne in
central Johnson County. Jeremiah Easterwood was among the early settlers and he
built a Methodist church, which also served as a school. The community later became
known as Elm Grove.
In 1894, the General Conference of Seventh Day Adventists opened a school to train
ministers. The assembly hall was built on the campus of Southwestern Union College
that year and a post office opened called Keene. The training school is now a Level
III university,
Southwestern Adventist University, offering degrees in business communication, education,
nursing, and other academic areas. MBA and M.Ed. degrees are also offered.
The Museum of Student Life -
The museum features an historical work ethic with industrial exhibits from the town's
early decades - broom making, chenille, stick horse, woodworking, printing, as well as an
extensive Biblical sanctuary exhibit and many items reflecting local history.
Open Monday - Thursday, 8a.m. - 5 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. - noon. Also open the
first Saturday of each month. Located at 300 N. College Drive on the university
campus. Donations accepted.
For information, call 817/ 556-4731.