Groesbeck Independent School District
Developers established the town of Groesbeck in February 1871, and Groesbeck College opened two months later on Trinity Street. Education for African American children dates from 1881, when trustees bought an acre of land adjacent to the Lone Star Cemetery (2 mi. S) for school and church purposes. In 1886, Limestone County acquired the former Groesbeck College property to establish the town's first public free school.
On May 24, 1890, citizens voted 43 to 24 in favor of incorporating the town for school purposes. Two days later, County Judge L.B. Cobb approved formation of the Groesbeck Independent School District. By 1892, the district erected two new buildings, one for white students and one for African American students. Over the years the district established new campuses throughout the city. A large two-story frame school built in 1896 burned in 1910, prompting construction of the first brick school. Starting with Frost Creek in 1926 and ending with Thornton in 1965, several rural schools consolidated with Groesbeck, vastly increasing the attendance area. Integration began in 1966 and was complete by 1969. Today, Groesbeck Independent School District is a large school system covering hundreds of square miles and including the incorporated cities of Groesbeck, Kosse and Thornton.
Groesbeck fielded its first football team in 1900. School traditions include selection of the Goat as the school mascot in about 1925, introduction of the TAOG yearbook in 1937, adoption of the high school colors as red and white in 1939, and the founding and first homecoming of the Groesbeck Ex-Students Association in 1952. (2006)
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 discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
In 1833, Limestone County was officially established and named after a large limestone formation found in the region. The county quickly became an important agricultural center, with settlers growing cotton, corn, and wheat. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy and led to the growth of several towns, including Mexia and Groesbeck.
Limestone County experienced its share of hardships throughout its history. During the Civil War, the county faced economic challenges as many men left to fight in the conflict. Reconstruction brought further difficulties, with tensions rising between white settlers and newly freed African Americans. However, the county rebounded from these challenges, and by the late 19th century, Limestone County was known for its thriving agricultural industry and successful businesses.
Today, Limestone County continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture playing a significant role in the local economy. The county is also home to several historical sites, including Fort Parker State Park, which preserves the history of the Fort Parker settlement and the abduction of Cynthia Ann Parker by Native Americans. Limestone County's rich history and natural beauty make it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Limestone County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Limestone County, Texas.
- 1833 - Limestone County is established as part of Mexican Texas
- 1836 - Texas becomes independent from Mexico
- 1846 - Limestone County is formally organized
- 1860s - County experiences growth due to the expansion of the railroad network
- 1873 - Groesbeck is chosen as the county seat
- 1880s - Cotton and corn become major crops in the county
- 1903 - First oil well is drilled in Limestone County
- 1930s - County suffers from the effects of the Great Depression
- 1940s - World War II brings economic recovery and increased population
- 1950s - Local agricultural sector declines, but the oil industry continues to thrive
- 1970s - County experiences economic growth with the opening of lignite coal mines
- 1980s - Lignite coal industry declines, impacting the local economy
- 2000s - County focuses on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism