Girl Scout Little House
Historical marker location:This community landmark has its origins in Borger's prewar oil boom. In early 1941, Hudson Davis opened a car dealership here, moving his family from Amarillo. Hudson and his wife Ruby immediately became involved in civic activities, with Hudson joining the Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce and other groups. Ruby and her daughter had been active in Girl Scouts in Amarillo, and so Ruby helped start a Girl Scout troop in Borger. She She and Margaret Elliot, principal of the Weatherly School, called an organizational meeting, and more than one hundred girls and their mothers attended. Ruby became president of the Borger Girl Scout Council.
World War II building restrictions and supply shortages delayed construction of a community center intended as a permanent meeting place for the Girl Scouts. In July 1945 Hudson Davis became president of the Lions Club, and directed the organization to sponsor construction of a headquarters building for the local scout troop. Fritz Thompson donated land near the community hospital, and Borger school superintendent Curtis Cryer obtained plans from Amarillo architect Macon O. Carder for the new building.
Construction of the Girl Scout Little House became a community-wide effort, with all material, money and labor being donated. The U-shaped building features an irregular course rock finish, low-pitch roof with cross gables and exposed rafter tails. The stone veneer of the building is dolostone from the Alibates formation. Since its completion, the building has been the site of many community activities as well as a meeting place for the Girl Scouts and Lions Club. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-2008
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 state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
In the 19th century, settlers began to make their way to Hutchinson County. The first permanent settlement was established in the early 1880s, with the establishment of the town of Plemons. The town served as a trading post and provided essential services to the surrounding ranching community. It wasn't until 1901 that the first oil well was drilled in the county, marking the beginning of the oil boom that would shape the future of Hutchinson County.
The discovery of oil led to a rapid influx of people and businesses to the region. Oil companies set up drilling operations, and towns such as Borger and Stinnett were founded to support the growing industry. This period of growth and prosperity continued throughout the early to mid-20th century, with oil production reaching its peak in the 1930s. The county became known as one of the leading oil-producing regions in Texas.
However, like many areas dependent on a single industry, Hutchinson County experienced ups and downs in its economic fortunes. The oil industry faced declining production and prices in the latter half of the 20th century, leading to a decline in population and economic activity. But in recent years, efforts have been made to diversify the county's economy, with a focus on industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
Today, Hutchinson County continues to be home to a vibrant community, with a mix of traditional industries and newer, emerging sectors. The county's rich history, from its Native American roots to its oil boom days, is celebrated and preserved, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the legacy and progress of this dynamic region.
Hutchinson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hutchinson County, Texas.
- 1876 - Hutchinson County is officially established. It is named after Andrew Hutchinson, a jurist and politician.
- 1880s - The first ranches are established in the area as settlers move in and begin cattle ranching.
- 1920s - Oil is discovered in Hutchinson County, leading to a boom in population and economic growth.
- 1930s - The Great Depression hits the county hard, causing a decline in population and economic struggles.
- 1950s - The oil industry experiences another boom, leading to increased drilling and production in Hutchinson County.
- 1970s - The county experiences a decline in oil production, leading to economic challenges for the region.
- 1990s - Efforts are made to diversify the economy, including the development of wind power projects in the area.
- 2000s - Hutchinson County witnesses a resurgence in the oil and gas industry, leading to increased economic activity.