On a chilly, January weekend in 1877, Bessie Moore and her companion, Abraham Rothschild, landed in Jefferson during their travels to East Texas.
While the intentions of their visit are somewhat unknown, the events that would take place would shake the community and leave a lasting impact.
That Sunday, Bessie would be murdered just outside of downtown.
Many accounts share that Abraham was strolling Jefferson alone during that portion of the weekend, claiming Bessie had gone on to visit folks in the nearby countryside.
The following events would turn wild including Abraham on the run to the North, a extremely messy court trial of Bessie’s murder, all leading up to a big question mark on who did it.
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‘Til this day, the case is still unsolved.
While there is still mystery over all of this 1800’s chaos, what is clear is that Bessie Moore is beloved by Jefferson, TX.
Today, you can visit her memorial within the Oakwood Cemetery. Here you can view her headstone, that’s topped with a twinkling tiara.
Visitors and locals alike occasionally will leave sparkling trinkets at her resting place to honor Bessie. This appreciation is a nod to her nickname, Diamond Bessie. She was given the title as all her jewelry was missing off her body when she was found.
This weekend, visit this Jefferson legend as you explore and experience all of the fascinating heritage that this East Texas city has to offer.
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Bessie Moore’s gravesite can be found towards the center of the Oakwood Cemetery: 507-501 N Line St, Jefferson, TX 75657
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