Site of Conaway School
Historical marker location:In community opened in 1891 by settlers C.P. and Mattie Conaway. First 3-months session was held in 1896 for nine pupils from three families, in one-room building placed by Conaway south of his ranch house. After four terms he moved school a mile north to serve a larger area. Pupils sat on homemade benches, wrote on slates, dipped drinking water from a bucket. In 1906 many farmers settled nearby. Conaway gave this new site, helped raise $375; and with patrons' labor, a new schoolhouse was erected. As enrolment increased, three rooms were added. This building was destroyed by fire in 1929 and replaced by a 4-room brick structure with an auditorium. A water system using a well and windmill also replaced the bucket and dipper of earlier days. Throughout the years the school building was used for church services and other community activities. Many successful people, including teachers, doctors, lawyers, and religious leaders, began their courses of study at Conaway School. Peak enrolment of 115 was reached during the 10-months term of 1933-34. After 1936 upper grades were transferred by bus to Westbrook; consolidation was completed in 1939. The school building was sold and dismantled in 1947.
(1972)
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 also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
In the mid-1800s, settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the land's fertile soil and the promise of a new frontier. One of the earliest settlements was the town of Colorado City, which was founded in 1881. Originally established as a rail station, the town quickly grew and became the county seat of Mitchell County.
A significant event in the county's history occurred in 1928, when the discovery of oil in the region brought a wave of prosperity and economic growth. Oil companies flocked to the area, and Mitchell County experienced a boom as oil fields were developed and wells were drilled. The industry continued to play a significant role in the county's economy, attracting workers and spurring the growth of towns such as Loraine and Westbrook.
Over the years, Mitchell County has witnessed both progress and challenges. The construction of Lake Colorado City in the 1930s provided a recreational outlet for residents and helped with water conservation efforts. However, the county, like many in Texas, faced hardships during the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, which had a profound impact on the agricultural sector.
Today, Mitchell County is known for its friendly communities, natural beauty, and rich heritage. It remains an important area for agriculture, with cotton, wheat, and cattle being the main industries. The county also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, allowing residents and visitors to connect with the region's history and natural resources.
Mitchell County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Mitchell County, Texas.
- 1876 - Mitchell County is established
- 1880s - Ranching becomes the main industry in the county
- 1882 - Colorado City is founded as the county seat
- 1907 - Oil is discovered in Mitchell County, leading to an economic boom
- 1925 - Colorado City experiences a major oil boom
- 1942-1946 - During World War II, an internment camp for German prisoners of war is established in Mitchell County
- 1962 - Lake Colorado City State Park is established
- 1976 - The historic Llano Estacado Wind Ranch is built in Mitchell County
- 1994 - Mitchell County Historical Commission is formed
- 2004 - The Windy Point Park and Campground is opened
- 2011 - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department opens the newly renovated Mitchell County Courthouse Museum