Hereford High School
In 1898, a relocated frame schoolhouse served students of Hereford. New buildings came as attendance increased, and in 1916 the school board converted the former Hereford Christian College building into a high school. Rural school consolidation led to more students and a successful $125,000 bond issue for a new high school in 1925. E. F. Rittenberry was architect and George Parr was contractor for this three-story brick and cast stone building featuring prominent Collegiate Gothic style entrances and finials. The building has served as Hereford High School (1926-1954), Stanton Junior High (1954-1988) - named for the first junior high principal H. V. Stanton - and as Stanton Learning Center. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2009
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
In 1876, the Texas Legislature established Deaf Smith County, named after Erastus "Deaf" Smith, a deaf mute scout and hero of the Texas Revolution. The county was officially organized in 1890 with the town of Hereford serving as the county seat. Agriculture quickly became the dominant industry, with cattle ranching and farming driving the local economy.
The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further spurred growth in Deaf Smith County. It opened up new markets and opportunities for farmers and ranchers to transport their goods. The population grew steadily, and new towns and communities were established throughout the area.
In the 20th century, Deaf Smith County faced a series of challenges, including the Dust Bowl of the 1930s and the Great Depression. However, the county survived and rebounded with the help of federal programs and initiatives. Today, the economy of Deaf Smith County is diversified, with agriculture, manufacturing, and retail sectors contributing to its prosperity. The county's rich history and resilient spirit continue to shape its identity and pave the way for a promising future.
Deaf Smith County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Deaf Smith County, Texas.
- 1838 - Josiah Hughes Bell settles in the area, becoming the first English-speaking settler in what is now Deaf Smith County
- 1874 - The Texas Legislature officially establishes Deaf Smith County
- 1881 - The town of Hereford is founded as the county seat
- 1913 - The county experiences a major oil and gas boom, leading to rapid growth and economic prosperity
- 1929 - The Great Depression hits, causing significant economic hardship in the county
- 1935 - The Works Progress Administration (WPA) builds Palo Duro High School, the first high school in Deaf Smith County
- 1955 - Pantex, a nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, is established in the county, becoming a major employer and economic driver
- 1969 - The Deaf Smith County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history
- 1995 - The Hereford Independent School District constructs a new high school building
- 2017 - Deaf Smith County celebrates its 143rd anniversary