Historical Marker

Sutherland Springs School Site

Historical marker location:
Second Street, Sutherland Springs, Texas
( The school site is a short distance on the left hand side of second street. The site can be identified by a rather large concrete slab just over the fence on the left hand side of the street. The marker will be set outside the fence.)
Marker installed: 2014
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

SUTHERLAND SPRINGS SCHOOL SITE

The Sutherland Springs Community was founded by Dr. John Sutherland and Joseph H. Polley in the 1850s. Both men were concerned with the need for a school in Sutherland Springs where social institutions had not yet developed. Early schools were built by churches, citizens or organizations. Public education funds were not adequately distributed and educational efforts in Texas remained sporadic through the close of the nineteenth century.

In 1857, Dr. Sutherland built a rock building on the Cibolo used as a private academy. In 1871, J.B. Polley deeded to the school trustees of Cibolo Hall and female academy all his right, title and interest in lot #3 block #59. By 1877, the male and female academy opened in the rock schoolhouse. In 1910, a bond election was voted on and adopted to construct a new school. The next year, lot #4 was purchased. In 1934, citizens of district nine voted to incorporate for free school purposes under the name Sutherland Springs Independent School District. A new school was built in 1936 and a gymnasium was added in 1938.

On the eve of Christmas holidays, December 19, 1947, fire completely destroyed the school building. After the fire, students finished the school year at the Baptist Church. A two-room building was erected for grades one through six. The district consolidated with Floresville in 1948 and the property was sold in 1953. However, the spirit of small, rural schools lives on through the community and memory.

(2014)

MARKER IS PROPERTY OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

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.

Education
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Wilson County, Texas, located in the southern part of the state, has a rich history that reaches back to early Native American settlements. The Karankawa tribe was the first known inhabitants of the area, living off the abundant natural resources the region had to offer. The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 18th century brought about significant changes in the area.

In the early 1800s, the region that is now Wilson County was part of the DeWitt Colony, a settlement established by Green DeWitt. The area played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution, with the Battle of Refugio taking place nearby in 1836. As the conflict between Texas colonists and Mexican forces raged on, the region became a hotbed of activity and witnessed significant military actions.

Wilson County was officially established in 1860, named in honor of James Charles Wilson, a Texas state legislator who fought in the battle of San Jacinto. The county experienced rapid growth in the 19th century due to the establishment of ranching and farming communities. Cattle ranching became a prominent industry, and the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted economic development.

The county faced challenges in the 20th century, including the Great Depression, which resulted in a decline in agricultural productivity. However, the discovery of oil and gas reserves brought renewed economic prosperity to the area. Today, Wilson County is known for its diverse economy, which includes agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The region has preserved much of its historical heritage and continues to celebrate its unique cultural and historical significance.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Wilson County, Texas.

  • February 13, 1854 - Wilson County established by the Texas legislature
  • 1856 - County seat established in Floresville
  • Late 1800s - Growth in agriculture sector, primarily cotton farming
  • 1902 - Construction of the Wilson County Courthouse completed
  • 1930s - Economic decline due to the Great Depression
  • 1940s - World War II leads to increased military presence in the area
  • Mid-1960s - Oil and gas production becomes a significant industry
  • 1970s - Growth in population and expansion of Floresville
  • 1998 - The Floresville Peanut Festival established
  • 2010 - Rapid population growth and increased development