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Elysian Fields, Texas facts for kids

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Elysian Fields is in Harrison County, Texas.

Elysian Fields is a small, quiet community in Harrison County, Texas. It's not a city with its own government, but rather an unincorporated community. This means it's a place where people live, but it's managed by the larger county government. Elysian Fields is located about 11 miles southeast of Marshall, which is the main town, or county seat, of Harrison County.

The Story of Elysian Fields

Elysian Fields has a long and interesting history. Long ago, it was home to a Caddo village called Big Springs. The Caddo were a group of Native American people who lived in this area for many centuries.

How Elysian Fields Got Its Name

The name "Elysian Fields" comes from a story from 1817. A man named Captain Edward Smith was having dinner in New Orleans. He thought the area was so beautiful that he compared it to the Elysian Fields from Greek Mythology. In Greek myths, the Elysian Fields were a beautiful paradise where heroes went after they died. Captain Smith and his family later moved to this lovely area in the 1830s.

Moving for the Railroad

For many years, the community stayed in its original spot. But in 1910, something important happened: the railroad came! Railroads were very important for travel and trade back then. To be closer to the new train tracks, the community of Elysian Fields moved about one mile to the west. This helped the town grow and connect with other places.

Elysian Fields Today

Today, Elysian Fields is known as the center of the Elysian Fields Independent School District. This school district serves the children and families living in and around the community. The school district is an important part of life here, bringing people together. About 3,917 people live within the area served by the school district.

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