Historical Marker

Spring Creek School

Historical marker location:
Borger vicinity, Texas
( 2 miles east of Borger on SH 152, then 3 miles north on FM 2171)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Established in 1900, a year before Hutchinson County was formally organized, the Spring Creek School is an early and significant part of the county's educational heritage. In that year, W. B. Haile and other area ranchers collected funds to buy materials to build the first schoolhouse. Located on the Harvey Ranch near Spring Creek, the schoolhouse served 13 students, taught by Mrs. L. S. Ford that first, 60-day school year. In 1901, the Hutchinson County commissioners court divided the county into four school districts, Spring Creek being named district #4. At that time, schools were under the supervision of a superintendent of county education, who by 1903 was W. B. Haile. When the area's population shifted, the first schoolhouse was moved to Haile Ranch and later to the Terry Ranch before becoming too small for the number of students enrolled. It was replaced sometime before 1930; this second building burned in 1932 but was rebuilt. The next building, a red brick structure, was completed in 1938 and offered the students and teachers six classrooms, a gymnasium-auditorium and a library. In 1949, the White Deer Creek School District consolidated with Spring Creek. At the turn of the 21st century, the Spring Creek School retained its status as an independent school district, serving this rural part of Hutchinson County. Administrators have directed strong educational and extra-curricular programs throughout the school's history. (2001)

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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Hutchinson County, located in the Panhandle region of Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa, who relied on the region's resources for their livelihoods. The first European explorers arrived in the area in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers exploring the region in search of riches and new lands.

In the 19th century, settlers began to make their way to Hutchinson County. The first permanent settlement was established in the early 1880s, with the establishment of the town of Plemons. The town served as a trading post and provided essential services to the surrounding ranching community. It wasn't until 1901 that the first oil well was drilled in the county, marking the beginning of the oil boom that would shape the future of Hutchinson County.

The discovery of oil led to a rapid influx of people and businesses to the region. Oil companies set up drilling operations, and towns such as Borger and Stinnett were founded to support the growing industry. This period of growth and prosperity continued throughout the early to mid-20th century, with oil production reaching its peak in the 1930s. The county became known as one of the leading oil-producing regions in Texas.

However, like many areas dependent on a single industry, Hutchinson County experienced ups and downs in its economic fortunes. The oil industry faced declining production and prices in the latter half of the 20th century, leading to a decline in population and economic activity. But in recent years, efforts have been made to diversify the county's economy, with a focus on industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.

Today, Hutchinson County continues to be home to a vibrant community, with a mix of traditional industries and newer, emerging sectors. The county's rich history, from its Native American roots to its oil boom days, is celebrated and preserved, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the legacy and progress of this dynamic region.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hutchinson County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Hutchinson County is officially established. It is named after Andrew Hutchinson, a jurist and politician.
  • 1880s - The first ranches are established in the area as settlers move in and begin cattle ranching.
  • 1920s - Oil is discovered in Hutchinson County, leading to a boom in population and economic growth.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression hits the county hard, causing a decline in population and economic struggles.
  • 1950s - The oil industry experiences another boom, leading to increased drilling and production in Hutchinson County.
  • 1970s - The county experiences a decline in oil production, leading to economic challenges for the region.
  • 1990s - Efforts are made to diversify the economy, including the development of wind power projects in the area.
  • 2000s - Hutchinson County witnesses a resurgence in the oil and gas industry, leading to increased economic activity.