Barefield School
Historical marker location:African Americans were denied access to education while enslaved, but opportunities emerged after emancipation. The first African American school in Refugio was held in a shotgun building on the corner of Santiago and Osage Streets. The school, known as the Refugio Colored School, later moved to the corner of Alamo and King Streets. The school had no running water so the boys carried water from Osage Street for drinking purposes. The students also found and cut firewood during the winter months to heat the school and were responsible for maintenance of the building. In 1927, the school burned. Professor A.T. Barefield arranged for classes to be held at the Bob Button Dance Hall and then at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church.
Beginning in 1917, Julius Rosenwald, president of Sears Roebuck Company, began to provide matching funds for African American schools in the south. By 1929, a new two-room stucco building was erected on East Commons Street through the Rosenwald school building program. The school was later named Barefield School after professor A.T. Barefield, an educator in Refugio from 1902 to 1949, who promoted education and good citizenship within the black community. As attendance grew, the board of trustees approved to move one of the two-room buildings from the white school to the Negro school grounds. The Rosenwald School no longer exists but the 1933 addition still stands at commons and bayou streets. The Barefield School was the only Rosenwald School in Refugio County and was a symbol of vision and progress for the community during the early 1900s
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 first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
In 1795, the area that is now Refugio County became part of the Spanish territory of Texas. The small community of Refugio was founded in 1832, and it quickly became an important center for trade and politics in the region. During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Refugio was a strategic location, and it played a significant role in the battle for Texas independence. The famous Battle of Refugio took place here, where the Texian soldiers fought against Mexican forces.
Following the Texas Revolution, Refugio County grew steadily as more settlers arrived in the area. The discovery of oil and gas in the early 20th century brought economic prosperity to the county. Refugio's population continued to grow, and the town became a hub for agriculture, ranching, and oil-related industries. The county also played a part in World War II, with the establishment of the Tynan Army Airfield and the construction of an air training base.
Today, Refugio County retains its rich history and charm. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Old Refugio County Jail and the Refugio County Museum, which showcase the area's past. The county is also known for its natural beauty, with areas like the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and the Copano Bay State Fishing Pier providing opportunities for outdoor activities. With its long and fascinating history, Refugio County continues to be a vibrant community in South Texas.
Refugio County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Refugio County, Texas.
- 1795 - Spanish land grants are issued in the area that is now Refugio County
- 1828 - The Mexican government grants a land certificate to a group of eleven empresarios, including James Power and James Hewetson, who establish a colony in the area
- 1836 - The Battle of Refugio takes place during the Texas Revolution
- 1837 - Refugio County is officially established by the Republic of Texas
- 1844 - The first courthouse is built in Refugio County
- 1854 - The town of Refugio becomes the county seat of Refugio County
- 1858 - The county courthouse burns down and is replaced with a new one
- 1922 - The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in Refugio County
- 1936 - The current courthouse in Refugio is completed
- 1940s-1950s - The County experiences a decline in population due to the effects of World War II and increased mechanization in agriculture
- 1970s-1980s - The construction of the nearby South Texas Nuclear Project brings economic growth to the county
- 2008 - Hurricane Ike causes extensive damage to Refugio County