Highland Home School
Historical marker location:A small white frame schoolhouse, erected here in the 1890s, served families in this rural area until 1929. Initially called Boyd School for D. R. Boyd, on whose land it was built, it later became known as Highland Home School. Children in grades one through seven were taught by one teacher, and the schoolhouse also served as a community gathering place. As was the case with many early rural Texas schools, Highland Home School closed in 1929 after it was consolidated with the Waller Independent School District
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
In the 1820s, Anglo-American settlers began arriving in the area, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for agriculture. Waller County was officially established in 1873 and named after Edwin Waller, one of the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence. The county's first courthouse was built in Hempstead, which remains its county seat to this day.
Like many parts of Texas, Waller County played a significant role in the Civil War. The area's economy was heavily dependent on cotton production, and many residents owned slaves. The county sent numerous soldiers to fight for the Confederacy, and after the war, the region experienced a period of Reconstruction and healing.
Throughout the 20th century, Waller County gradually transformed from an agricultural-based economy to one that embraced industry and education. The development of transportation infrastructure, such as railroads and highways, enabled the county to expand its reach and attract businesses. The establishment of Prairie View A&M University, an historically black college, in 1876 further contributed to the county's growth.
Today, Waller County is known for its diverse economy, which includes agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, and education. It remains a vibrant community that values its history while striving for progress and prosperity.
Waller County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Waller County, Texas.
- 1837: Waller County is established as part of the Republic of Texas
- 1838: The town of Hempstead is founded as the county seat
- 1850s: The county's economy thrives on cotton production and slave labor
- 1861-1865: Waller County residents actively participate in the Civil War
- 1873: The Houston and Texas Central Railroad reaches Waller County, spurring growth
- 1885: Prairie View A&M University, the first state-funded college for African Americans, is established in Waller County
- 1899: The Santa Fe Railroad is completed in Waller County, further boosting commerce
- 20th century: Waller County experiences ups and downs in agriculture, oil, and gas industries
- 1998: Tragic death of Sandra Bland in a Waller County jail attracts national attention and sparks discussions on racial injustice and police misconduct