Bell County Genealogical Society Something for everyone, Everywhere
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Whether you’re a seasoned historian or a first-time genealogist, you’ll find the support, inspiration, and resources you need on your journey with us. Discover the rich history of Bell County, a place that has long been a crossroads for settlers from many regions, and continues to be a diverse community today. While our specialty is the history of Bell County, we also offer expertise in tracing YOUR roots beyond our county borders, helping you connect with YOUR family wherever they may have settled.
At our monthly meetings, we share stories, learn new research techniques, explore, and build friendships while diving into the fascinating world of genealogy. Join us as we uncover the stories of your ancestors, connect with your heritage, and preserve your family’s legacy for generations to come.
January 25, 2025 - Monthly General Meeting - DNA Brick Walls - Belton, TX
February 22, 2025 - Monthly General Meeting - Genealogy for Beginners - Killeen, TX
March 22, 2025 - Monthly General Meeting - How to Archive & Store Family Treasures - Salado, TX
April 26, 2025 - Monthly General Meeting - Robertson Plantation of Bell County - Belton, TX
Established 1869, The Cochran, Blair & Potts department store. 221 E Central Ave, Belton; is the oldest department store in Texas. In 1884 the store moved to Belton from Centerville with seven generations operating it.
We offer free genealogy guidance on a come-and-go basis.
4th Saturday's from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Every Tuesday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
2nd and 4th Wednesday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Temple Public Library, 100 W. Adams Ave. Temple, Texas 76501
Members of the Bell County Genealogical Society will be present to help you with your questions on researching your family tree.
Events, Resources, and Classes
Link coming soon
Link coming soon
Historical Markers of Bell County, Texas
Bell County Marker - Near Belton, in Bell County, Texas - The American South (West South Central) Location: 31° 0.241′ N, 97° 29.501′ W. Marker is near Belton, Texas, in Bell County. It can be reached from I-35 Frontage Rd. In road side park just north of Lampasas River bridge.
Photographed by Keith Peterson, February 2, 2008 
What We Do
About Bell County Genealogical Society
Our Purpose:
To locate, collect, acquire, record, conserve, index, reproduce, and publish materials pertaining primarily to the United States and Central Texas and Bell County.
To assist, as members, person interested in researching their family heritage, and to educate members in the preparations of publishing of genealogical family histories and local histories.
To maintain and elevate genealogical standards and stress the importance of accuracy through the careful documentation of research.
To affiliate with other local, regional, state and national organizations in the fields of genealogy, local history, and preservation.
To disseminate knowledge among the public by support of festivals and museum activities, the conduct of public meetings, and the sponsorship of lectures, classes and seminars.
About Bell County, Texas
Bell County is situated in Central Texas, nestled between Waco and Austin, and bisected by Interstate 35. The county features the Blackland Prairie to the east, primarily known for farming, and the Edwards Plateau to the west, which is largely used for ranching.
Established on January 22, 1850, Bell County was named after Peter Hansborough Bell, the newly elected governor at the time. The county seat, Belton, originally known as Nolanville, adopted its current name on April 22, 1852.
The settlement and development of Bell County were part of the Mexican land grant to the Moses Austin Colony. Early settlers traveled up the Brazos River from the coast, following the Little River and Leon River into the area. Bell County is home to several towns, including Temple, Belton, Killeen, Salado, Rogers, Troy, Little River-Academy, and Holland.
