Site of Reservation School
As settlement in Kerr County began to spread to outlying areas at the end of the 19th century, neighbors gradually formed schools in which to educate their children. The Reservation School began in 1907 as a one-room school and also housed a Baptist church congregation. It was relocated to this site in 1919 after Anton and Emma Esquell deeded a portion of their land for a school. A larger two-room building and outbuildings including horse stalls and a teacherage were erected to accommodate an increasing student population. In 1935 the Baptist congregation changed its name and moved to new facilities. The school continued in operation until 1939, when students were bussed to other area schools. Voters officially approved consolidation with Harper schools in neighboring Gillespie County in 1941. (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.
Texas is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
In 1845, Texas became the 28th state of the United States, and Kerr County was officially formed in 1856. It was named after James Kerr, a major in the Texas Revolution and a member of the Republic of Texas Congress. The county's early economy was centered around agriculture, with ranching, farming, and timber production being the main industries.
During the Civil War, Kerr County, like many other parts of Texas, was divided in allegiance between the Union and the Confederacy. The area experienced occasional raids and skirmishes, but overall remained relatively peaceful during the conflict. After the war, the county began to recover and flourish economically, with the arrival of the railroad in 1887, which improved transportation and access to markets.
The 20th century brought further growth and development to Kerr County. The discovery of oil in the nearby counties stimulated the economy, and Kerrville, the county seat, became a regional hub for commerce and services. The establishment of Schreiner Institute, now Schreiner University, in 1923, brought higher education opportunities to the area. Today, Kerr County continues to attract residents and visitors with its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant community life.
Kerr County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Kerr County, Texas.
- 1856 - Kerr County is officially established on January 26.
- 1857 - The first county government is organized in October.
- 1870 - The city of Kerrville is founded as a trade center for the surrounding area.
- 1876 - Kerrville becomes the county seat of Kerr County.
- 1888 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway reaches Kerrville, stimulating growth in the area.
- 1890 - Kerrville is incorporated as a city.
- 1930 - The Camp Meeting Association of the Methodist Episcopal Church South establishes a permanent site for summer encampments in Kerrville, which later becomes the Mo-Ranch conference center.
- 1962 - The Kerrville Folk Festival is first held, becoming one of the longest continuously running music festivals in the United States.
- 1998 - The Kerrville-Schreiner State Park is opened to the public.