“During Reconstruction, emancipated African-Americans established rural settlements where they would be free to live, work, and worship. Edmond Bell and his wife, Vina, and the families of their children, Simon, Henry, John, William M., Harriet, and Edmond Jr., moved here starting in 1867, followed by other families along Yegua Creek and its tributaries. Most families were farmers, and the community shared a sorghum molasses mill on the land of William E. Bell, a son of Simon and Ellen. Community institutions included Sulphur Springs School (1888-1960s), churches (St. Paul A.M.E., Providence Baptist, and Church of Christ), a grocery store, and cemeteries. Community celebrations, gatherings, and other activities have become the cherished heritage of descendants of the early settlers.”