Historical Marker

Centennial Memorial Museum

Historical marker location:
945 Park St., Corpus Christi, Texas
( mid block on Park Steet)
Marker installed: 2013
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

The Centennial Memorial Museum was built as part of a statewide commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of Texas Independence. In 1935, the Centennial Advisory Board of Nueces County discussed plans for the centennial. Original plans centered on hosting the annual splash days event and a historical pageant. However, the idea of a museum soon offered educational possibilities, promotion of regional history, increased tourism and a new community center. In 1938, the city of Corpus Christi donated a site within South Bluff Park and offered $1,200 toward the cost of the building. The commission of control allocated $4,000 and the citizens of the area donated over $1,000. Construction began in December 1938 and was completed on May 18, 1940. As a one-story 60 by 40 foot building, the museum was limited in space. Initially, Mary Louise Degarmo (d.1953), the historian on the committee, planned for a three-in-one museum highlighting history, art and science. Cattle brands, model airplanes, boat models, photography and geological exhibits promoted the uniqueness of the region. Art exhibits at the museum continued to grow as community participation in art also grew.

After World War II, when the museum was used as a military support facility and the exhibits were removed, only the art component of the museum remained, as the history and science components were moved to a new location. In 1944, with the creation of the Corpus Christi Art Foundation, the museum changed its name to the Centennial Art Museum. The museum continued to be a vital cultural force in the community until space limitations forced the art museum’s relocation to the art and science park on Shoreline Boulevard

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.

Fine Arts
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Nueces County, located in southern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area first saw human habitation thousands of years ago, with Native American tribes such as the Karankawa and Coahuiltecan peoples inhabiting the region. European exploration of the area began in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers claiming the land for the Spanish crown. However, it wasn't until the early 18th century that the first permanent settlements were established.

In 1828, the Mexican government granted land to Colonel Henry Lawrence Kinney, an American entrepreneur, who founded the trading post of Kinney's Trading Post near the Nueces River. This marked the beginning of Anglo settlement in the area. Nueces County was officially established in 1846, following the Texas Revolution and subsequent annexation of Texas by the United States.

Throughout the 19th century, Nueces County played a significant role in Texas' development. The town of Corpus Christi, which served as the county seat, became an important regional trade center due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The county flourished as a shipping hub for livestock, cotton, and other agricultural goods.

The county's history was greatly influenced by its participation in several military conflicts. During the American Civil War, Corpus Christi served as a center for Confederate forces, and the county witnessed both Union and Confederate occupation. Additionally, the county played an important role during World War II, with Corpus Christi becoming a major training center for Navy pilots.

In recent times, Nueces County has continued to grow and evolve. The county's economy has diversified, with tourism, oil and gas, and the military being major contributors. The region boasts numerous attractions, including beautiful coastal beaches, cultural sites, and a vibrant culinary scene. Today, Nueces County remains an important and thriving part of Texas' history and economy.

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

  • 1836 - Nueces County is established as one of the original counties in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1845 - Texas becomes a state of the United States, and Nueces County remains part of the state.
  • 1848 - The county seat is established in Corpus Christi.
  • 1850 - The population of Nueces County reaches 756 residents.
  • 1852 - The Corpus Christi Cathedral is constructed, becoming a significant landmark in the county.
  • 1872 - The railroad reaches Nueces County, leading to increased economic development and population growth.
  • 1875 - The Nueces County Courthouse, built in the Renaissance Revival style, is completed.
  • 1900 - A devastating hurricane strikes the county, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1914 - The Port of Corpus Christi is established, becoming a major hub for trade and industry.
  • 1931 - The Nueces County Courthouse is expanded and remodeled to its current appearance.
  • 1940 - Nueces County experiences a population boom, with the county's residents totaling over 101,000.
  • 1987 - Hurricane Gilbert causes widespread destruction in Nueces County and the surrounding areas.
  • Present - Nueces County continues to be a thriving center for commerce, industry, and tourism.