Historical Marker

Jourdanton I.S.D

Historical marker location:
200 Zanderson Ave., Jourdanton, Texas
( On the west side of SH 16, between Peach Street and Tamarac Street (FM 1332))
Marker installed: 2011
Marker size: 27" x 42"

JOURDANTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

FROM A TINY SCHOOL TO AN OFFICIAL, RECOGNIZED SINGLE-CAMPUS CONCEPT, THE JOURDANTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT HAS REMAINED DEDICATED TO EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY. IN THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY, COUNTY SCHOOLS SUCH AS THE HILBURN SCHOOL NORTHWEST OF JOURDANTON SERVED THE AREA. SOON THE GROWING ENROLLMENT AND NEED FOR TEACHERS PROMPTED THE COMMUNITY TO APPEAL TO THE LEGISLATURE. IN 1911, THE STATE LEGISLATURE AUTHORIZED THE CREATION OF THE JOURDANTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, THE FIRST IN ATASCOSA COUNTY. RESIDENTS QUICKLY PASSED A BOND ELECTION TO BUILD A SCHOOL AND PARK SYSTEM. A THREE-STORY BRICK BUILDING WAS ERECTED IN THE CENTER OF JOURDANTON. A FOOTBALL FIELD AND HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING WERE ADDED ON ADJOINING LOTS. IN 1938, A GYMNASIUM WAS COMPLETED WITH ASSISTANCE FROM THE WORKS PROGRESS ADMINISTRATION. TO ACCOMMODATE A GROWING DISTRICT, A NEW CAMPUS WAS CONSTRUCTED ON THE SOUTHERN EDGE OF TOWN IN 1953 WHERE IT REMAINS TODAY.

OVER THE DECADES, JOURDANTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT OVERCAME MANY OBSTACLES. WITH THE OUTBREAK OF WORLD WAR I AND II, THE SCHOOL LOST EDUCATORS AND ADMINISTRATORS TO MILITARY SERVICE AND ASSISTED THE WAR EFFORT BY HOLDING WAR BOND DRIVES ON CAMPUS. MANY STUDENTS FROM THE DISTRICT ATTENDED COLLEGES AND THEN RETURNED TO TEACH THE NEXT GENERATION OF STUDENTS. OTHER GRADUATES HAVE GONE ON TO BECOME CHEFS, LAWYERS, RESEARCHERS, WRITERS, AND ATHLETES. THROUGH COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION AND ACHIEVEMENT, JOURDANTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT HAS CEMENTED ITS REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE FOR A VIBRANT AND GROWING COMMUNITY.

175 YEARS OF TEXAS INDEPENDENCE * 1836-2011

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 Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Atascosa County, located in south-central Texas, has a rich and diverse history spanning hundreds of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache. Spanish explorers arrived in the 18th century, with the area eventually becoming part of the San Antonio de Béxar (San Antonio) Spanish colonial outpost.

In the early 19th century, the region experienced a migration of American settlers. Atascosa County, named after the Atascosa River that flows through it, was officially established in 1856. The county played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with several battles fought in the area. The region's fertile land attracted farmers and ranchers, leading to the growth of the agricultural industry. Cattle ranching soon became a dominant economic activity, and the county became known for its large cattle drives and sprawling ranches.

During the Civil War, Atascosa County sided with the Confederacy, and the conflict brought some challenges to the area. However, after the war, the county experienced a period of growth and development. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to larger markets, and the establishment of towns and communities brought further prosperity.

In the 20th century, Atascosa County continued to thrive economically, primarily due to agriculture, particularly cotton and corn farming. Oil and gas exploration also became significant industries in the region. The growth of cities such as Pleasanton and Jourdanton brought increased infrastructure and amenities to the area. Today, Atascosa County is an important part of the South Texas economy, contributing to agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism. Its history and heritage are celebrated through various cultural events and historical landmarks.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Atascosa County, Texas.

  • 1856 - Atascosa County is officially established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1872 - The county's first courthouse is built in Pleasanton.
  • 1881 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway is completed, bringing a significant boost to the county's economy.
  • 1890 - Tornadoes cause extensive damage in the county, leading to rebuilding efforts.
  • 1898 - The county's second courthouse is constructed, replacing the original one.
  • 1908 - The discovery of oil in the county leads to an oil boom, bringing economic prosperity.
  • 1920s - Atascosa County experiences a decline in agriculture due to the boll weevil infestation.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in the county.
  • 1940s - World War II brings changes to the county, including the establishment of a military training base.
  • 1960s - Construction of Interstate 37 brings improved transportation infrastructure to the county.
  • 1970s - Atascosa County's population starts to grow significantly, leading to increased development.
  • 1990s - The county experiences further population growth and urbanization.
  • 2005 - Hurricane Emily causes widespread damage in the county.
  • Present - Atascosa County continues to be a mix of rural and urban communities, with a diverse economy.