Keene Population- 4,483 Altitude 693

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.

 

 

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