Historical Marker

Tyler Junior College

Historical marker location:
1400 E. 5th St., Tyler, Texas
( on campus at Jenkins Hall)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Tyler Junior College was established in 1926 during the formative years of the junior college movement in Texas. This institution began as an extension of the Tyler public school system with school superintendent G. O. Clough serving as its first president. World War II stimulated several new programs at the college, but the greatest growth came in the post-war years. In 1945, voters established a new independent junior college district governed by a locally elected ten-member board of trustees. After a successful bond election, noted Tyler architect Shirley Simons designed a campus plan, which included the reuse of several surplus buildings from nearby Camp Fannin and the first new college facility, later named Jenkins Hall. A curriculum expansion accompanied the growth in facilities to offer a broader range of coursework to the students. Seventy-five years after its establishment, Tyler Junior College encompasses a 78-acre campus with 30 buildings and eight residence halls. The district includes Tyler and surrounding communities, allowing the college's significant impact to extend beyond city boundaries into the east Texas region. The growth and success of Tyler Junior College can be attributed to visionary leadership from the presidents and the boards of trustees, a dedicated faculty and a generous citizenry. (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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Texas random facts
Smith County, Texas, holds a rich history that stretches back to its beginnings. The land that is now Smith County was once inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee nations. The region first caught the attention of European settlers in the early 19th century, when Stephen F. Austin's colonists began to venture into the area. The first permanent settlement, Tyler, was established in 1846.

During the turbulent times of the American Civil War, Smith County experienced significant unrest. Many residents in the county owned slaves, and tensions ran high between Union and Confederate sympathizers. The Battle of Blackjack Grove took place in August 1864, and although it was a minor skirmish, it reflected the deep divisions and struggles faced by the county during the war.

Following the war, Smith County experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy and population. During this period, the town of Tyler established itself as a principal commercial center, attracting businesses and settlers from surrounding areas.

In the 20th century, Smith County continued to thrive with the growth of agriculture, oil, and manufacturing industries. Tyler became known as the "Rose Capital of the World" due to its substantial rose-growing industry. The county has also been a center for education, with the establishment of schools and universities.

Today, Smith County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of Texas. Its rich history, from its Native American roots to its role in the Civil War and beyond, provides a fascinating backdrop to its current achievements and endeavors.

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

  • 1846 - Smith County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1847 - The county seat is designated at Tyler.
  • 1850 - The population of Smith County reaches 1,726.
  • 1861-1865 - The Civil War impacts the county, with many residents serving in the Confederate Army.
  • 1877 - The Texas and Pacific Railway reaches Tyler, boosting the local economy.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardships to Smith County.
  • 1932 - The East Texas Oil Field is discovered, leading to an oil boom in the area.
  • 1950s - The construction of highways and infrastructure brings further growth and development to the county.
  • 1995 - The Smith County Historical Society is formed to preserve the county's history.
  • Present - Smith County continues to thrive as a regional economic and cultural hub in East Texas.