Historical Marker

Old Del Rio High School

Historical marker location:
Grinert, Martin, Del Rio, Texas
( Grinert and Martin)
Marker installed: 2004
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Founded in 1868 on the edge of the Chuhuahuan Desert and just three miles from the Rio Grande, Del Rio began as an agricultural community. Early residents had access to intermittent schooling opportunities for their children. In the 1870s, the community used an adobe structure as a schoolhouse whenever a teacher was available. During the 1880s, children attended classes in a two-room, wood-frame building at Pecan and Greenwood streets. That decade brought significant changes to the community, as the Del Rio Common School District organized in 1884 and Val Verde County began the following year with Del Rio as the seat of government. In 1890, residents voted to create an independent school district, which included much of present-day Del Rio except for the San Felipe neighborhood, which created its own school district.

Following creation of the Del Rio district, trustees approved a new school building at this site. Called Del Rio High School, or Secondary School, it housed classes through the tenth grade. By 1906, the district had divided into three campuses: the high school, Hill School (Northside Elementary) and an African American school. Ongoing construction projects expanded to meet the growing number of students. The district addded an eleventh grade in 1910 and a twelfth grade level following construction of this school building in 1930. Built by Phil Garoni, the new structure served until 1968, when the district built a larger high school on the north side. The district continues to use the 1930 structure for school programs. Today, the campus of the Old Del Rio High School serves as an important reminder of early educational efforts in the city. (2005)

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.

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Val Verde County, located in southwestern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, and by the 18th century, Spanish missions were established to convert the native populations to Christianity.

In the early 19th century, Val Verde County became a part of Texas after the Mexican War of Independence. The region saw conflict during the Texas Revolution, with the infamous Battle of Val Verde taking place near the county's namesake river in 1862. The battle, part of the American Civil War, resulted in a Confederate victory.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Val Verde County experienced significant economic growth. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s stimulated agriculture and ranching industries. The county also became a hub for mining, particularly silver, lead, and zinc. The city of Del Rio, the county seat, emerged as an important trading center and transportation hub.

Val Verde County continued to evolve throughout the 20th century. The construction of Amistad Dam in the 1960s brought about the formation of Lake Amistad, which became a popular recreational area. The county's economy shifted to include tourism and outdoor activities, drawing visitors to its natural beauty and historical sites.

Today, Val Verde County remains an important part of Texas history and a vibrant community. Its rich past is celebrated through museums and heritage sites, while the region's diverse cultural and natural resources contribute to its appeal as a tourist destination.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Val Verde County, Texas.

  • 1885 - Val Verde County is officially established.
  • 1800s - Indigenous people, including Comanche and Lipan Apache tribes, inhabit the area.
  • 1880 - Southern Pacific Railroad extends through Val Verde County.
  • 1882 - City of Del Rio is founded as the county seat.
  • 1912 - Devil's River State Recreational Area is established.
  • 1942-1946 - Laughlin Army Air Field (now Laughlin Air Force Base) is constructed and operated during World War II.
  • 1952 - Amistad Dam is completed, creating Amistad Reservoir.
  • 1980 - Seminole Canyon State Historical Park and the nearby Fate Bell Shelter are dedicated.
  • 1998 - Val Verde Winery, Texas' oldest continuously operated winery, celebrates its 125th anniversary.