Historical Marker

Robert E. Lee High School

Historical marker location:
1809 Market Street, Baytown, Texas
( Baytown, 1809 Market Street)
Marker installed: 2011
Marker size: 27" x 42"

AFTER A POPULATION INCREASE DUE TO THE DISCOVERY OF OIL IN 1908, LOCAL RESIDENTS REALIZED THE NEED FOR PERMANENT SCHOOL FACILITIES AND FORMED THE GOOSE CREEK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT IN 1919, ENCOMPASSING THE CITIES OF GOOSE CREEK, PELLY, AND BAYTOWN AND THE WOOSTER COMMUNITY. PROMINENT HOUSTON ARCHITECT HARRY D. PAYNE DESIGNED A NEW SCHOOL, WHICH OPENED IN FALL 1928. THE ART DECO-STYLE BUILDING WITH CLASSICAL ELEMENTS IS CONCRETE-FRAMED WITH A STUCCO VENEER ON A CONCRETE FOUNDATION. NOTABLE FEATURES INCLUDE GLAZED TERRA COTTA ROOF TILES, BRICK TRIMMED NICHES WITH URNS, AND CLASSICAL FINIALS. ROBERT E. LEE HIGH SCHOOL, NAMED DUE TO THE CONFEDERATE GENERAL’S POPULARITY IN THE AREA, SERVED AS A SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE ENTIRE DISTRICT. SITED BETWEEN GOOSE CREEK-BAYTOWN HIGHWAY (NOW MARKET STREET) AND THE DAYTON-GOOSE CREEK RAILROAD (NOW UNION PACIFIC), THE SCHOOL WAS CENTRALLY LOCATED IN THE TRI-CITIES, ALLOWING IT TO UNITE THEM AND BECOME THE HEART OF THE AREA.

AS A STATED PURPOSE OF THE SCHOOL WAS TO BECOME THE CENTER OF ALL COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, VARIOUS ORGANIZATIONS AND CHURCHES WERE ALLOWED TO USE ITS FACILITIES, AND THE AUDITORIUM BECAME A POPULAR VENUE FOR CIVIC EVENTS. ANOTHER PURPOSE WAS ADULT EDUCATION; FROM 1934 TO 1951, LEE JUNIOR COLLEGE HELD CLASSES AT NIGHT ON THE HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS. DISASTER STRUCK ON APRIL 29, 1987, WHEN A FIRE, LATER DETERMINED TO BE ARSON, ENGULFED THE MAIN BUILDING. ALUMNI AND CITIZENS INSISTED ON RESTORATION OF THE BUILDING TO ITS ORIGINAL APPEARANCE. FROM THE BEGINNING, ROBERT E. LEE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS HAVE WON NUMEROUS HONORS IN BOTH ACADEMICS AND ATHLETICS. OVER THE YEARS, THE SCHOOL HAS EXPANDED AND MODERNIZED TO CONSISTENTLY MEET THE HIGHEST STANDARDS AND REMAIN A FIRST-CLASS HIGH SCHOOL

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.

educational buildings
Texas will again lift it's head and stand among the nations. It ought to do, for Texans consumed with greatness
Sam Houston in Letter to the thirteen Texas municipalities
Harris County in Texas has a significant history that shaped its growth and importance. Established in 1837, the county was named after John Richardson Harris, founder of the first settlement, Harrisburg. Houston, the county seat, became a prominent commercial and shipping center due to its strategic location and railroads.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.

Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.

Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.

With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Harris County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.

  • 1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.

  • 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.

  • 1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.

  • 19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.

  • 20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.

  • 1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.

  • Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.