Historical Marker

Black Education in Bryan

Historical marker location:
Bryan, Texas
( Between Houston St. and Preston St. on 20th; Bryan (in park).)
Marker installed: 1975
Marker size: 27" x 42"

On March 30, 1885, the City of Bryan purchased seven lots in this area as a site for a public school to provide separate but equal and impartial instruction for black children of the community, as prescribed by the Texas State Constitution of 1876. The "Bryan Public School for Colored" was the first educational institution established for blacks in Brazos County.

When school opened in the fall of 1885, its principal was A.H. Colwell, who later became a prominent leader of black Republicans, and was named as a presidential elector from Texas in 1896. The original faculty included Mrs. Anne Alberson, Misses Mamie Burrows and Beatrice Calhoun, Mrs. Ada Scott Hall, and Mrs. Lenora Green, a classmate of Dr. William E.B. Dubois.

The first school building of this site was a two-story frame structure, furnished with planks supported by kegs for seating. After the school burned in 1914, a brick edifice was constructed. In 1930, when the Kemp Junior-Senior High School was built across town, this facility became Washington Elementary School. After its destruction by fire in Sept. 1971, Washington Elementary was not rebuilt and the black students were integrated into the Bryan Public School System. Washington Park occupies most of the original site

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.

African American
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Brazos County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its establishment in 1841. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Tonkawa peoples. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1820s, attracted by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources of the region.

The county was officially created in 1841 and named after the Brazos River that flows through the area. During the mid-19th century, Brazos County experienced significant economic growth due to the expansion of cotton farming. The construction of railroads in the late 1800s further spurred development, leading to the establishment of new towns such as Bryan, which later became the county seat.

Brazos County played an important role in the Civil War, with many of its residents supporting the Confederacy. Throughout the war, Union troops occasionally invaded the county, leading to skirmishes between soldiers and local militias. The end of the war brought an era of reconstruction and the county, like many others in the South, faced significant economic challenges as it struggled to rebuild.

In the 20th century, Brazos County experienced steady growth and development. The presence of Texas A&M University, which was established in 1876, has had a major impact on the county's economy and cultural landscape. Today, Brazos County is a vibrant community known for its educational institutions, agriculture, and rich history.

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

  • 1821 - Mexico gains independence from Spain, including the area that would become Brazos County.
  • 1837 - Brazos County is officially founded and named after the Brazos River.
  • 1854 - Texas A&M University is established in Brazos County.
  • 1861 - The Civil War begins, affecting Brazos County and leading to economic challenges.
  • 1882 - The first railroad reaches Bryan, the county seat of Brazos County, enhancing transportation and trade.
  • 1900 - The town of Marystown, later renamed College Station, is established near Texas A&M University.
  • 1930 - The area experiences significant population growth due to the expansion of Texas A&M University.
  • 1943 - During World War II, the Bryan Air Base is established in Brazos County, contributing to the local economy.
  • 1970 - George Bush, future President of the United States, moves to College Station and becomes involved in local politics.
  • 1999 - The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is opened at Texas A&M University.