Kahn Memorial Hospital
Historical marker location:In April 1909, doctors James F. Rosborough, Rogers Cocke and Frank Littlejohn joined forces to meet the increasing need for a medical facility in Marshall. Established in the home and former sanitarium of Dr. John H. Pope, the new facility was to be called Memorial Hospital. The estate of Rosborough's former patient, E. Kahn, gave the bulk of the monies and the 12-bed facility was renamed for him. Nursing training began in 1911; Kahn Memorial Hospital became a public institution in 1912, though stockholders expected never to receive a financial return on their investments. By 1926 the hospital was ready for expansion. Through major community and county support, a new structure was erected on the same site and Valleloma, John Pope's former home and sanitarium and the hospital's first building, became a nursing school and residence. The hospital incorporated in 1931 and was granted a state charter as a nonprofit private enterprise in 1936. Another expansion was necessary by the 1940s, making Kahn Memorial Hospital a 66-bed facility. Valleloma was razed and a nursing school was erected in its place.
In 1954 the board hired a business manager for the first time and he reorganized Kahn Memorial's failing financial situation. Given the option of becoming a city- or county-owned facility, the board declined and reached out to its citizens once again. The community rallied and the hospital began to succeed once more. Kahn Memorial Hospital hired its first female physician in 1957 and made two African American doctors full members of the staff in 1964. Renamed Marshall Memorial Hospital and later Marshall Regional Medical Center, the facility continues to serve the area's medical needs at the dawn of the 21st century.
(2000)
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 Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.
Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.
Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.
With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.
Harris County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Harris County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.
1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.
1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.
1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.
19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.
20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.
1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.
Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.