Historical Marker

Old Rock Schoolhouse

Historical marker location:
300 block of College St., Sonora, Texas
( 300 block of College Street, Sonora)
Marker installed: 1990
Marker size: Medallion & Plate

This Italianate schoolhouse was built in 1904 to provide improved educational facilities for a growing population. Rockmason T. S. Hodges of Lockhart used native rock from a quarry east of town to craft the two-story building. Originally housing the entire school system, it later served as a junior high facility and elementary school. A 1914 addition to the south end of the building, also built by Hodges, complements the original structure.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark--1990

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.

educational buildings Italianate education design and construction
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
Texas random facts
Sutton County is located in southwest Texas and has a rich history dating back to the Native American tribes that inhabited the region for thousands of years. The first recorded European settlement in the area was established in the mid-1800s, when a group of pioneers led by Moses and Asa Sutton settled near the headwaters of the Llano River. The county was officially formed in 1887 and named after the Sutton family.

In the late 19th century, ranching became a significant economic activity in Sutton County, with large cattle ranches dominating the landscape. The area's abundant grasslands and access to water sources made it conducive to ranching, and it attracted many ranchers looking to establish their businesses. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further stimulated growth and trade in the county.

In the early 20th century, silver mining also played a crucial role in Sutton County's history. The boom in silver production attracted miners from all over Texas and beyond. The town of Sonora, which had been established earlier as a cattle trading center, became a hub for silver mining operations. Although the silver boom was short-lived and ended by the 1920s, its impact on the economy and population of the area was significant.

Today, Sutton County continues to be primarily an agricultural area, with cattle ranching being the main industry. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic canyons and rivers that provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in tourism, with visitors exploring the area's history and enjoying activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. Sutton County's history and vibrant present make it an intriguing part of Texas' diverse landscape.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sutton County, Texas.

  • Sutton County, TX was established in 1887.
  • In 1899, the town of Sonora was founded as the county seat.
  • In the early 1900s, the area experienced a boom in ranching and farming.
  • In 1922, oil was discovered in Sutton County, leading to an oil boom.
  • During the Great Depression, the county suffered from economic hardships.
  • In the 1950s, the construction of Lake Amistad began, providing a new water source and recreational opportunities.
  • In 1978, a small airplane crashed in Sutton County, resulting in the deaths of country music singer Jim Reeves and his manager.
  • Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Sutton County has continued to focus on ranching, oil production, and tourism.