Historical Marker

Site of Scranton Academy

Historical marker location:
Cisco vicinity, Texas
( 12 miles southwest of Cisco on FM 1864)
Marker installed: 1971
Marker size: 27" x 42"

A private, coeducational school organized in 1903 to augment Scranton Public School (opened 1887). Scranton, a small farming-ranching community, was only 13 years old when citizens founded the academy, by public subscription. The school expanded rapidly, reaching an enrollment of 325 by 1910. At its peak all grade levels (then numbering 11) were taught. First president, O.C. Britton, presided 1903-1908. He was followed by W.W. Griffin (1909), S.P. Collins (1910-1911), and J.E. Temple Peters (1911-1915). Under Peters, courses were standardized, a science program begun, and a modern laboratory and library added. Later presidents were J.W. Hawkins (1916), and L.E. Ratten (1917). Among early trustees were G.W. Bailey, F.G. Boyd, A.P. Brown, W.D. Clinton, W.T. Gattis, E.B. Lane, J.J. Ray, W.T. Rutherford, A.M. Sprawls, J.R. Sprawls, and John L. Woods. In addition to basic subjects, school offered a teacher training program. Physical plant consisted of a large classroom building, a 500-seat auditorium, two dormitories, scientific laboratory, and library. During its lifetime, the academy contributed much to the town's culture and its graduates entered many different walks of life. It closed with the advent of World War I in 1917. (1971)

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.

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Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
Texas random facts
Eastland County, located in central Texas, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Apache. The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century brought about changes in the region, with conflicts arising between the Native Americans and European settlers.

The county's official establishment came in 1858, when Texas Legislature recognized it as a separate entity. The county was named after William M. Eastland, who fought in the Texan Revolution and served as a Texas Ranger. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Eastland County experienced significant growth and development thanks to the arrival of railroads, making it a crucial transportation hub for the surrounding regions.

The discovery of oil in the early 20th century also brought prosperity to Eastland County. The oil boom led to a population increase, as well as the growth of industrial and commercial sectors. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s had a devastating impact on the county, leading to a decline in population and economic activity.

In recent decades, Eastland County has worked to revive its economy and preserve its rich heritage. Today, the county is known for its thriving agricultural sector, including cattle farming and crop cultivation. The county also attracts tourists with its natural beauty, offering outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, and camping. Eastland County continues to embrace its history while looking towards a promising future.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Eastland County, Texas.

  • 1850 - Eastland County is established as a county in Texas.
  • 1854 - The town of Palo Pinto is designated as the county seat.
  • 1858 - Palo Pinto is abandoned, and the county seat is moved to Merriman.
  • 1875 - Merriman loses the county seat status to Eastland.
  • 1890 - The Texas Central Railroad arrives in Eastland, fueling growth and economic development.
  • 1907 - The first oil well in Eastland County is drilled, leading to the rise of the oil industry in the area.
  • 1920 - The Eastland City Dam is built, creating Lake Leon and providing a water source for the region.
  • 1930 - The population of Eastland County reaches its peak, with over 30,000 residents.
  • 1938 - Eastland County is severely affected by the devastating tornado outbreak known as the "Wichita Falls–East Texas Tornado Outbreak."
  • 1950s - The decline of the oil industry and changes in agriculture lead to a population decrease in Eastland County.
  • Today, Eastland County is a rural area with a diverse economy, including agriculture, oil and gas production, and tourism.