Historical Marker

Three Miles Northeast to Site of Seth Ward College

Marker installed: 1970
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Original buildings erected in 1906-07. The school opened September 18, 1907, as Central Plains College and Conservatory of Music, with Dr. L.L. Gladney as president. The Nazarene Church maintained the college until 1910, when it was purchased by the Methodist Church. Dr. Gladney remained president until 1911.

After becoming a Methodist school, the institution changed its name to Seth Ward College in honor of Texas' first native Methodist bishop. The Rev. C.N.N. Ferguson served as president of the first board of trustees, who elected the Rev. J. Sam Barcus president of the college. Enrollment at that time totaled about 300 students.

On the 35-acre campus stood a four-story main building with 27 rooms and a large chapel. Two frame dormitories housed the students and teachers, and a small frame building accomodated the music classes. The school's motto, "Character First," expressed its intent to pursue a Christian educational program.

Presidents who followed Barcus were Dr. W.M. Pearce, The Rev. C.L. McDonald, and M.B. Johnson. The latter served until 1916, when the main building and girls' dormitory burned (the boys' dormitory had burned in 1914) and the college was forced to close. (1970)

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.

churches Methodist (Methodist Episcopal and United Methodist) denomination education
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
Texas random facts
Hale County, Texas, located in the Panhandle region, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Apaches, before European settlement. In the 1870s, the first pioneers arrived in the region and established several ranches, harnessing the potential of the vast grasslands and natural resources.

The county was officially organized in 1888 and named after Lt. John C. Hale, a hero of the Battle of San Jacinto during the Texas Revolution. Agriculture played a crucial role in the early development of Hale County, with farming and ranching becoming the primary economic activities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further facilitated trade and growth in the region.

One significant event in Hale County's history was the discovery of oil in the early 20th century. Oil fields were found near the city of Plainview, leading to an economic boom and population growth. The discovery of oil allowed for the establishment of refineries and related industries, transforming Hale County into an important oil-producing area in Texas.

In recent decades, the economy of Hale County has diversified, with the advent of new industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and education. The county continues to be a major agricultural producer, specializing in cotton, sorghum, and cattle ranching. Hale County is also known for its strong community spirit and has maintained its rural charm while embracing progress and modernization.

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

  • 1876: Hale County is founded as a part of the Texas Panhandle.
  • 1881: The first permanent settlement, Plainview, is established.
  • 1888: The Santa Fe Railroad reaches Plainview, boosting the town's growth.
  • 1891: Hale County is officially organized.
  • 1892: The first courthouse is constructed in Plainview.
  • 1907: The Discovery Oil Well is drilled, leading to an oil boom in the county.
  • 1920: The town of Hale Center is incorporated.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression hits Hale County, causing significant economic hardship.
  • 1941: United States enters World War II, causing Hale County to experience an increase in agricultural production.
  • 1950s: The introduction of irrigation systems revolutionizes agriculture in the county.
  • 1980: Hale County experiences an economic downturn due to a decline in the oil industry.
  • 1990s: The establishment of wind farms begins to diversify the county's energy sources.
  • 2008: Hale County suffers from a severe drought, affecting agricultural production.
  • 2010s: Renewed focus on economic development and tourism to boost the county's economy.