Ordway Hall

Historical marker location:

2201 S. Washington St., Amarillo, Texas

( 2201 S. Washington St.)

Marker installed: 2008

Architect Guy Carlander designed this administration building for Amarillo College. It was built in 1936-37 and later named for George Ordway, who with James Guleke obtained legislative authority to establish the school; Ordway later became the first president. The L-plan building consists of an auditorium and a two-story classroom and office wing with 19 bays terminating in a four-story tower. Geometric Art Deco style elements such as chevrons, flutes and parallel bands accent the buff brick and cast stone exterior. Sculpted terra cotta panels on the corners depict gnomes reading and writing. Interior materials include buff and red brick walls and terrazzo floors with diamond and mosaic patterns.Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-2008.

educational buildings

In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.