Ibarra Elementary School
Historical marker location:IBARRA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
IN 1935, THE BRYAN SCHOOL BOARD ELECTED TO CONSTRUCT A TWO-ROOM, WOODEN SCHOOL BUILDING FOR SPANISH-SPEAKING CHILDREN FOR GRADES ONE THROUGH FOUR. THE SITE CHOSEN WAS ON THE JOE BATTS PROPERTY ALONG THE NEW ROUTE FOR HIGHWAY 21, WEST OF THE CITY. THE SITE IN WEST BRYAN WAS PURCHASED BY THE CITY ON JUNE 20, 1935.
THE SCHOOL WAS NAMED FOR REVEREND GUILLERMO IBARRA WHO SERVED AS THE FIRST PASTOR OF PRIMERA IGLESIA BAUTISTA OF BRYAN FROM 1922-1929. HE BELIEVED THAT EDUCATION WAS THE KEY TO SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, ACHIEVEMENT, AND SUCCESS. DURING THIS TIME SCHOOLS WERE SEGREGATED AND IT WAS OFTEN DIFFICULT FOR HISPANIC CHILDREN TO GET TO SCHOOL BECAUSE OF DISTANCE AND THE LACK OF TRANSPORTATION. THE PRINCIPAL OF THE IBARRA SCHOOL WAS C.M. BETHANY. ESTHER PRICE AND PHILIPPA STONEHAM WERE THE FIRST TEACHERS. THEY COULD SPEAK BOTH ENGLISH AND SPANISH. STUDENTS HAD MIXED EXPERIENCES FROM BEING SEGREGATED TO BEING PUNISHED FOR SPEAKING SPANISH. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH FOR STUDENTS WAS PROVIDED BY THE “RELIEF PROGRAM.” THE PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION WAS ACTIVE AND PUT ON A SPRING PROGRAM WHERE CHILDREN WOULD SING AND DANCE.
CITIZENSHIP CLASSES WERE OFFERED TO LATIN AMERICAN RESIDENTS WHO DESIRED TO BECOME CITIZENS. BOY SCOUT MEETINGS WERE HELD AT IBARRA SCHOOL UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF PETE L. RODRIGUEZ AND MANUEL HERRERA, SR. ON FRIDAY NIGHTS, MOVIES WERE SHOWN OUTSIDE ON THE PLAYGROUND FOR THE COMMUNITY. IBARRA ELEMENTARY SERVED CHILDREN FROM 1935-1949 WHEN IT WAS RENAMED SAN JACINTO ELEMENTARY AND SERVED AS A SCHOOL UNTIL 1960. IBARRA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WAS LOCATED ON THE CURRENT SITE OF IBARRA PARK
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.
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.
Brazos County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.