Historical Marker

Center Point School

Historical marker location:
215 China Street, Center Point, Texas
( Center Point, 215 China Street)
Marker installed: 2011
Marker size: 18" x 28"

PRIOR TO THE SETTLEMENT OF THE COMMUNITY OF ZANZENBURG AND CENTER POINT, SCHOOL WAS TAUGHT IN SHACKS AND HOMES. FROM 1873-1875, B.F. JOHNSON TAUGHT CLASSES IN THE FIRST SCHOOL HELD IN VARIOUS BUILDINGS IN THE AREA. FROM 1876-1884, THE CENTER POINT ACADEMY SERVED AS THE COMMUNITY’S SCHOOL. IN 1884, DR. J.C. NOWLIN DONATED AN ACRE OF LAND FOR A SCHOOL BUILDING AND A PLANK BUILDING WAS ERECTED. IN 1910, SAN ANTONIO ARCHITECT ALFRED GILES DESIGNED AND J. V. OPPERT BUILT A TWO-STORY LIMESTONE BUILDING. THE SCHOOL OFFICIALLY OPENED FOR CLASSES IN THE FALL OF 1911. STUDENTS STILL RECEIVE AN EDUCATION IN THE ORIGINAL LIMESTONE BUILDING, WHICH SERVES AS AN EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL HUB FOR CENTER POINT

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.

Education
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Kerr County, located in the hill country of Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche, who utilized the region's abundant resources for hunting and gathering. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, primarily from Germany, and established the first permanent settlements.

In 1845, Texas became the 28th state of the United States, and Kerr County was officially formed in 1856. It was named after James Kerr, a major in the Texas Revolution and a member of the Republic of Texas Congress. The county's early economy was centered around agriculture, with ranching, farming, and timber production being the main industries.

During the Civil War, Kerr County, like many other parts of Texas, was divided in allegiance between the Union and the Confederacy. The area experienced occasional raids and skirmishes, but overall remained relatively peaceful during the conflict. After the war, the county began to recover and flourish economically, with the arrival of the railroad in 1887, which improved transportation and access to markets.

The 20th century brought further growth and development to Kerr County. The discovery of oil in the nearby counties stimulated the economy, and Kerrville, the county seat, became a regional hub for commerce and services. The establishment of Schreiner Institute, now Schreiner University, in 1923, brought higher education opportunities to the area. Today, Kerr County continues to attract residents and visitors with its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant community life.

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

  • 1856 - Kerr County is officially established on January 26.
  • 1857 - The first county government is organized in October.
  • 1870 - The city of Kerrville is founded as a trade center for the surrounding area.
  • 1876 - Kerrville becomes the county seat of Kerr County.
  • 1888 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway reaches Kerrville, stimulating growth in the area.
  • 1890 - Kerrville is incorporated as a city.
  • 1930 - The Camp Meeting Association of the Methodist Episcopal Church South establishes a permanent site for summer encampments in Kerrville, which later becomes the Mo-Ranch conference center.
  • 1962 - The Kerrville Folk Festival is first held, becoming one of the longest continuously running music festivals in the United States.
  • 1998 - The Kerrville-Schreiner State Park is opened to the public.