Lipscomb School
Historical marker location:LIPSCOMB SCHOOL
Around 1886, the town of Lipscomb was established by J.H. Arthur who built a store and post office out of cottonwood logs. As more people moved to the area, the need for a school arose and, on July 16, 1887, a special meeting was called to organize a school district and build a schoolhouse in Lipscomb. The first school began in a church purchased by the Lipscomb school trustees in 1888. The building, formerly the Dunkard Church, was a small, one-room school. The school and church both utilized the building until a new two-story, four-room schoolhouse was built in 1908 to accommodate an increase in enrollment.
In 1922, a fire believed to be caused from lightning destroyed the building. The school district trustees immediately began discussions about a new school. J.D. Stevens Construction Company began work on the school in 1922 and classes started in the fall of 1923. While the new brick school was being built, classes were held in the church and in two rooms of the courthouse. The new Lipscomb School included four classrooms, two bathrooms, a library, office and a large auditorium.
The Lipscomb School had full enrollment with a high school and a grade school. Students participated in track, literary events, tennis, basketball and football. The last graduating class was in 1941 with six graduates. Students began to be transported by bus to nearby high schools and the Lipscomb School became a grade school. In 1975, as the population of the area declined, the school closed. The school is a testament to the value of education in this rural, farming community
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 city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
The county's early settlers faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, limited resources, and conflicts with Native American tribes. Many early pioneers were drawn to the area for its fertile soil and opportunities for cattle ranching. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought further growth and development to the county.
During the early 20th century, Lipscomb County experienced a boom in agriculture, with cotton and wheat becoming the primary crops. The discovery of oil in the area in the 1920s brought a new wave of prosperity and economic growth. The county saw an increase in population and the establishment of new businesses.
Today, Lipscomb County remains largely rural, with agriculture and oil production continuing to be significant industries. The county's rich history is celebrated through various historical sites and museums, which preserve the stories and heritage of the early settlers who shaped the area.
Lipscomb County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lipscomb County, Texas.
- 1876 - Lipscomb County was established on August 21, becoming the last of the 254 counties in Texas.
- 1887 - The town of Lipscomb, which would later become the county seat, was founded.
- 1902 - The Northeast Texas Panhandle was opened up for settlement, leading to an influx of farmers and ranchers into Lipscomb County.
- 1907 - The Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway established a line through Lipscomb County, boosting transportation and economic development in the area.
- 1911 - Lipscomb County's first courthouse was built in Lipscomb.
- 1920s - The oil boom hit the Lipscomb County area, bringing prosperity and economic growth.
- 1926 - The town of Lipscomb was incorporated.
- 1940s - The oil industry continued to thrive, and agriculture remained a significant part of the county's economy.
- 1969 - The Lipscomb County Courthouse, which served as the county seat, was destroyed in a fire.
- 1970 - The current courthouse in Lipscomb was built, serving as the county seat.