Historical Marker

Jasper Public Schools

Marker installed: 1968

Jasper Collegiate Institute, first local center for higher leaning, opened 1851; partially tax-supported, coeducational. First president was noted East Texas educator Marcus Montrose, graduate, Edinburgh University.

After losses caused by Civil War (1861-1865), it was succeeded 1878 by Southeast Texas Male and Female College, which attained enviable status, and enjoyed the financial support of citizens of Jasper before closing in 1910.

College properties, including a new building erected 1900, were deeded to the elementary and high schools of Jasper.

Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.