Booker T. Washington School
Historical marker location:
565 FM 451, Elysian Fields, Texas
( About 20 feet into the ROW in front of the current Elysian Fields Elementary School)
Marker installed: 2017
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post
About Texas State Historical Markers
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 was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
About Harrison County
Harrison County Timeline
Harrison County, located in northeastern Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. In 1839, the Republic of Texas incorporated Harrison County, naming it after Jonas Harrison, a lawyer and Texas revolutionary. The county quickly became an important center for commerce and government.
During the mid-19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the development of Texas. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in 1930 brought prosperity and growth to the county. This led to the establishment of several oil companies, driving economic development and creating job opportunities for local residents.
Harrison County was also deeply impacted by slavery and the Civil War. Prior to the war, the county was home to numerous large plantations that relied on enslaved labor for agricultural production. The war left a lasting impact on the county, which continued to struggle with racial tensions and inequality in the years following the war.
Today, Harrison County remains an important part of Texas history and boasts a diverse and vibrant community. The county is home to a number of historic sites, including the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot and the W.C. Dewberry Home and Museum, which showcase the area's rich cultural heritage. With its blend of history and modern progress, Harrison County continues to be a significant contributor to the growth and development of Texas.
During the mid-19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the development of Texas. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in 1930 brought prosperity and growth to the county. This led to the establishment of several oil companies, driving economic development and creating job opportunities for local residents.
Harrison County was also deeply impacted by slavery and the Civil War. Prior to the war, the county was home to numerous large plantations that relied on enslaved labor for agricultural production. The war left a lasting impact on the county, which continued to struggle with racial tensions and inequality in the years following the war.
Today, Harrison County remains an important part of Texas history and boasts a diverse and vibrant community. The county is home to a number of historic sites, including the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot and the W.C. Dewberry Home and Museum, which showcase the area's rich cultural heritage. With its blend of history and modern progress, Harrison County continues to be a significant contributor to the growth and development of Texas.
Harrison County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Harrison County, Texas.
- 1839 - Harrison County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- 1840 - Marshall becomes the county seat of Harrison County
- 1861-1865 - Harrison County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War
- 1873 - Great Fire of Marshall destroys much of the city
- 1881 - First telephone exchange established in Marshall
- 1902 - Texas and Pacific Railway brings economic growth to the county
- 1930s - Oil discovery leads to an economic boom in Harrison County
- 1979 - East Texas Oil Museum opens in Kilgore, showcasing the region's oil industry
- 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county
- 2020 - Present day