Boy Scout Troop 1 (Troop 44)

Historical marker location:
300 5th Ave, Van Alstyne, Texas
( 300 5th Avenue)
Marker installed: 2002
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Boy Scout Troop 1 (Troop 44)

The U.S. Congress chartered the Boy Scouts of America organization in 1910. Just two years later, three Van Alstyne boys, Rowland Barnett, Otis White and Rae Nunnallee, received a Boy Scout storybook. Barnett made a Christmas wish and, in March 1913, the Van Alstyne troop received its charter--one of the first in the state. W.F. Barnett, Rowland's father and Van Alstyne school superintendent, became the troop's first scoutmaster. Within a few years, Troop 1, as it was known then, helped establish other boy scout troops in the area, beginning with the communities of Anna and Elmont.

The Van Alstyne troop worked from its founding date to serve its community. Through the 1920s, the troop helped in a citywide cleanup to control disease and insect population. In the 1940s, the troop's number changed to 44, and in 1948, the city donated land for a scout hut, which has since been used for meetings. In 1959, the troop took part in the relay of the Pan American Games torch as it traveled from Mexico City to Chicago. The Van Alstyne troop also became the first integrated troop in the Texoma Valley Council.

Beginning in 1917, Van Alstyne's First United Methodist Church became an official sponsor of the troop, which has since been sponsored by other local organizations and churches, as well as being continuously supported by the Methodist church. Scout leaders have included many men and women from the community, including one whose interest was piqued in 1912 by the storybook. Rae Nunnallee was an active troop member for 70 years, joining as a boy and later serving in a number of key roles, both locally and nationally. For his dedication and service, the chapel at nearby Camp Grayson was named in his honor. Setting an example others in the community have followed, Nunnallee generously gave his time, labor and care for the boy scouts in Van Alstyne.

(2003)

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.

Loading...
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
Grayson County, Texas has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area that is now Grayson County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Tonkawa, and Shawnee. However, European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1800s, leading to conflicts and the eventual displacement of the Native American populations.

The county itself was established in 1846 and named after Peter Wagener Grayson, a lawyer who served in the Texas legislature. Grayson County quickly grew as settlers moved into the region, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The county's economy flourished with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, which facilitated transportation of goods and boosted trade in the area.

During the Civil War, Grayson County largely supported the Confederacy, and many residents volunteered to serve in the Southern army. After the war, the county faced challenges as it struggled to rebuild and recover from the economic and social impacts of the conflict. However, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of prosperity to Grayson County. Oil fields were developed, attracting workers and boosting the local economy.

Today, Grayson County continues to thrive as a vibrant and growing community. It is home to several cities, including Sherman, the county seat, and Denison. The county is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Texoma, which is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Grayson County also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, museums, and festivals that celebrate its unique history and traditions.

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

  • 1836 - The Republic of Texas is established, including the area now known as Grayson County.
  • 1846 - Grayson County is officially organized and named after Peter W. Grayson, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
  • 1850 - The first courthouse is built in Sherman, becoming the county seat.
  • 1871 - The arrival of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad sparks growth in the county.
  • 1872 - Sherman is incorporated as a city.
  • 1896 - The Red River Bridge, connecting Grayson County to the Oklahoma Territory, is completed.
  • 1900 - The population of Grayson County reaches over 40,000 residents.
  • 1930s - Grayson County is affected by the Great Depression, but starts recovering through federal programs.
  • 1960s - Lake Texoma is created by the Army Corps of Engineers, providing recreational opportunities.
  • 1990s - Grayson County experiences rapid growth due to its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
  • 2006 - The Grayson County Courthouse, built in 1910, undergoes major renovations.