Historical Marker

Wayside Community

Historical marker location:
SH 70, N of Pampa, Pampa, Texas
( from Pampa, travel 6 miles north on SH 70; marker is next to old school)
Marker installed: 1974
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Settlers came to this locality in 1876. The county was organized in 1889. Pioneer school district no. 5 originated by court order in 1890 to serve this area with schools known as Tallahone, Poole, and Wayside, taught usually in homes. In 1914, Frederic Foster of New York gave this 2-acre school site to the county. The district bought materials, and patrons erected this 28 x 36-foot schoolhouse, painting it red. It soon became the focus for the community - site for elections, church services, and other activities, as well as housing the Wayside School. The trustees in 1914 were James A. Poole, J. M. Story, and Earl Talley. Despite enrolment fluctuations caused by drouths, oil booms, and other economic factors, Wayside prided itself on scholastic excellence. Beginning in 1929, high school students were transferred by bus into Pampa, Wayside District paying their tuition. In 1933-1934, all grades were transferred - an arrangement used until 1950, when Wayside consolidated with Pampa.

White Deer Land Company, successor to original donor Frederic Foster, then deeded the red schoolhouse for continuing community use to trustees Paul Caylor, R. E. Montgomery, and J. T. Roberts. Current trustees are C. W. Osborne, J. T. Rogers, and Jack Sloan.

(1974)

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Roberts County is located in the northern panhandle region of Texas and has a rich history dating back centuries. Before European settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa. These indigenous groups utilized the land for hunting and gathering.

In the early 1870s, ranchers began to settle in what is now Roberts County. The region's vast grasslands provided ample grazing opportunities for cattle, attracting ranchers from across Texas. The county was officially established in 1876, named after John S. Roberts, a significant figure in the movement for Texas statehood.

Throughout the late 19th century, cattle ranching dominated the local economy, and the population grew steadily. In the 1880s, the establishment of railroads in the region further facilitated the increase in trade and transportation of cattle, allowing for better access to markets outside the county. This growth continued into the 20th century, with the development of better irrigation techniques and the expansion of farming activities.

However, like many rural areas, Roberts County faced challenges during the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s devastated agricultural practices in the region, causing massive crop failures and forcing many residents to abandon their farms. The federal government's New Deal programs aimed to provide relief and recovery for farmers in the area, leading to the implementation of soil conservation measures and the construction of dams and reservoirs.

Since then, Roberts County has experienced periods of economic growth and decline. Today, the county's economy is still primarily based on agriculture, with cattle ranching, farming, and wind energy production being major industries. The county's rich history and dynamic present make it an interesting and important part of Texas' heritage.

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

  • 1876: Roberts County is officially established by the Texas legislature.
  • Late 1870s: Buffalo hunters begin to populate the area.
  • 1882: The first post office, "Roberts", is established.
  • 1890: The county population is recorded at 565 residents.
  • Early 1900s: Farmers and ranchers settle in the area, establishing the agricultural economy.
  • 1933: The Dust Bowl hits Roberts County, causing severe soil erosion and economic hardships.
  • 1950s: Oil and gas exploration begins, leading to increased economic activity in the county.
  • 1980: The county reaches its peak population of around 1,400 residents.
  • 1990s: Population decline begins as job opportunities decrease.
  • Present: Roberts County continues to be a rural community with a focus on agriculture and energy industries.