Branch Davidian Compound in Axtell, Texas

Near Axtell, Texas, 20 miles north-east of Waco was a large group of buildings known as the Mount Carmel Center once used by the Branch Davidian religious group. Named after the Biblical mountain Mount Carmel in Israel, the Davidians (later Branch Davidians) lived in relatively peaceful isolation from the Waco community. As a city with deep religious roots itself, Waco generally accepted the Branch Davidians and allowed them to practice their religious beliefs without interference. That ended in 1987 when the group gained local media attention due to a shootout at the New Mount Carmel Center. Vernon Howell, who later changed his name to David Koresh in 1990, had assumed leadership of the Branch Davidians after a power struggle which led to the shootout with rival leader George Roden. Shortly after, Koresh began incorporating radical ideas into his messages. Claiming God had instructed him to build an army to prepare for the end of days, he encouraged the group to begin stockpiling ammunition and weapons. He also claimed he was instructed by God to procreate with the women to establish a "House of David" and, while his only legal marriage was to Rachel Jones when she was 14 years old, he took on many "spiritual wives", both single and married to others. Evidence indicates he had relationships with underage girls and fathered more than 12 children with several "wives". While never claiming to be Jesus himself, Koresh had proclaimed that he was the final prophet. On February 28, 1993, the Branch Davidians were brought to national attention when federal agents attempted to execute a warrant and arrest Koresh, sparking a firefight that left four ATF agents and six Davidians dead. A 51-day siege ensued, until April 19, 1993, when a fire erupted, leaving another 76 Davidians, including many children, deceased. Nothing remains of the original compound today, as the entire site was bulldozed two weeks after the end of the siege. A new Branch Davidian community now exists on the property called The Branch, The Lord Our Righteousness, which includes a small chapel, memorial site, and wellness center. A gate restricts access to certain hours and a $10 entrance donation is requested.

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