Van Vleck Independent School District
Historical marker location:Education was a priority for the residents of Matagorda County. During the 1880s, private schools were the primary source of education for Matagorda County students. By 1899, a small railroad came to the county and it started to grow. Previously known as Hardeman, the community was now renamed Van Vleck after the Southern Pacific Railroad Superintendent, W.G. Van Vleck. A small school was built in 1901 for white students. By 1914, a new three-story wooden structure was built. In 1918, a bond was passed to assist with building and equipment needs for the white and African American schools of Van Vleck. In 1938, Van Vleck school board members voted to ask the Texas Department of Education for the organization of an independent school district for Van Vleck. That same year, they voted to apply for a grant from the Public Works Administration to help build a new school. Architect C.A. Johnson was hired to design the new building. With the newly organized Van Vleck Independent School District, board members wanted to consolidate the smaller community schools into the Van Vleck district. By 1939, the communities of Ashwood, Cedar Lake, Cedar Lane, Hasima, Liveoak, Lukefahr, Mount Pilgrim, Sargent and Shiloh had transitioned all high school students to the Van Vleck school district. The new school became the center of the community for entertainment and culture. In 1966, Van Vleck schools offered voluntary integration of African American students into the white schools. During the 1970s and 1980s, many additions were made as the school district continued to grow. For over a century, Van Vleck schools have fostered education in Matagorda County. (2014)
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.
In the 1820s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive in Matagorda County, attracted by the fertile land and natural resources. The Mexican government granted land grants to individuals, and the population grew rapidly. The county played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with the Battle of Matagorda taking place in 1832. The victory of Texan forces led to the expulsion of Mexican troops from the area.
The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of economic growth to Matagorda County. This led to the establishment of oil refineries and other industries, transforming the region's economy. However, the boom was followed by a period of decline due to the Great Depression and changes in the oil industry. The county experienced a resurgence in the late 20th century with the growth of tourism and recreational activities along the Gulf Coast.
Today, Matagorda County is known for its beautiful beaches and wetlands, attracting visitors from all over. It continues to be an important center for fishing, agriculture, and petrochemical industries. The county's history is preserved through museums and historical sites, providing a glimpse into its vibrant past.
Matagorda County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Matagorda County, Texas.
- 1825 - Stephen F. Austin established a colony around Matagorda Bay.
- 1832 - Matagorda County was officially created and named after the Matagorda Bay.
- 1834 - The town of Matagorda became the county seat.
- 1836 - Texas gained independence from Mexico.
- 1846 - Matagorda County became part of the state of Texas when it was admitted to the United States.
- 1856 - The town of Bay City was established as a trade center.
- 1875 - The county courthouse in Matagorda was destroyed by fire.
- 1882 - Bay City became the new county seat.
- 1942 - The Matagorda Island National Wildlife Refuge was established.
- 1998 - Hurricane Frances caused significant damage to Matagorda County.