Last night I had the privilege of attending the rededication of the Old Buckner Cemetery in McKinney, and I left with a deeper appreciation for what stewardship means.

This ground goes back to 1846 when Buckner was Collin County’s original county seat. On July 4th that year, citizens gathered here and elected the county’s first officials (how patriotic is that?!). Founded by John McGarrah, later home to the O’Brien family, and by 1848 absorbed into history — this cemetery is the only physical mark of our county’s origins.

Candace Fountoulakis and the Old Buckner Cemetery Association refused to let it fade away. Thanks to their persistence and developer Eric Seitz’s generosity, the pioneers buried here — including victims of the 1870s smallpox epidemic, and purportedly a Kiowa named Spotted Tail, are honored as they deserve.

The restoration project includes a new fence, new gates, historical markers on stone pillars, a Historic Texas Cemetery Medallion, and inspiringly, a bench featuring post-heads from the previous iron gate incorporated by the Scouts (see pictures).

180 years of Collin County history, preserved.

That’s exactly why I’m running for County Commissioner. The same instinct that drives good governance drives good stewardship; you protect and strengthen what matters before it’s gone.

I’m grateful for everyone who made this possible. — in Buckner, Texas.