Historical Marker

McMurry College

Historical marker location:
S. 14th & Sayles Blvd., Abilene, Texas
( S. 14th Street & Sayles Boulevard (in courtyard behind administration building), Abilene)
Marker installed: 1986
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Between the years 1840 and 1920, the Methodist church founded nearly eighty colleges in Texas. Four colleges in the Northwest Texas Conference had closed for various reasons by 1920, when the Reverend James Winford Hunt was appointed commissioner of a new college to be built in Abilene.

James Winford Hunt (1875-1934) published newspapers in Lubbock and Plainview before becoming a Methodist circuit rider minister in 1903. He was called to St. Paul's Church in Abilene in 1914, where he served for two years before becoming president of Stamford College. Returning to St. Paul's when Stamford closed in 1918, he resigned in 1920 to promote the establishment of a new college.

Garnering overwhelming community support, a fund drive was launched in March 1921, to coincide with a visit from the conference presiding Bishop, William Fletcher McMurry. In April the church Board of Education elected trustees, appointed Hunt president, and named McMurry College in honor of the bishop. A charter was filed with the state on November 26, 1921, and construction began in 1922. The faculty was chosen the following spring, and the school officially opened on September 19, 1923.

Texas Sesquicentennial 1836-1986

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.

Methodist (Methodist Episcopal and United Methodist) denomination education
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
Taylor County is located in the west-central region of Texas and has a rich and diverse history. The area that is now Taylor County was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa, before European settlers arrived. In the mid-19th century, the region became part of Texas and was officially established as Taylor County in 1858, named after Edward Taylor, a prominent figure in the Mexican-American War.

The early years of Taylor County were characterized by the hardships and challenges faced by the settlers. The area was sparsely populated, and conflicts with Native American tribes were common. However, with the development of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century, Taylor County experienced a significant period of growth and development. The railroad sparked economic growth, attracting new settlers and industries to the area.

Agriculture played a vital role in Taylor County's history, with cotton being the dominant crop. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed farmers to thrive, and cotton production became a major industry in the county. However, the agricultural boom was affected by various factors, including natural disasters and economic fluctuations, leading to both prosperity and challenges for the region's farmers.

Over the years, Taylor County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century led to the establishment of the petroleum industry in the county, bringing new opportunities for growth and development. Today, Taylor County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The county's rich history is celebrated through its numerous historical sites and museums, providing a glimpse into the past while embracing the progress and future of the region.

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

  • 1858 - Taylor County is officially formed and organized.
  • 1878 - Abilene becomes the county seat of Taylor County.
  • 1881 - The Texas and Pacific Railway is completed, increasing transportation and trade in Taylor County.
  • 1890 - Taylor County population reaches over 8,000 residents.
  • 1909 - Abilene Christian College (now Abilene Christian University) is established.
  • 1924 - Construction of the Lake Abilene dam begins.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression severely impacts Taylor County, causing economic hardship.
  • 1950 - Dyess Air Force Base is established, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1969 - Abilene becomes the first city in Texas to implement the "911" emergency telephone system.
  • 1999 - The Taylor County Expo Center opens, becoming a hub for events and exhibitions.
  • 2006 - The Abilene Zoo completes a major renovation, enhancing its facilities and exhibits.