Sam Houston High School
Historical marker location:This school’s lineage begins with one of the oldest schools in Houston. When Mayor James H. Stevens died in 1856, his bequest of $5,000 and matching contributions founded the Houston Academy, with a brick school built on block 77 (bordered by Capitol, Caroline, Austin and Rusk Streets). In Dec. 1860, Gov. Sam Houston spoke against secession at the school; during the Civil War, the building became a Confederate military hospital. The city operated Houston Academy after 1877 and added grades eight through eleven. In 1879, Lucy Williams Brown became the first high school graduate. During the 1880s, the school then called the Clopper Institute and Houston Normal and High School achieved accreditation and began the first high school newspaper in Texas, the Aegis (still in publication). A large new building replaced the original schoolhouse in 1895; the name was changed to Houston High School and later Central High. A 1919 fire razed the school and a third building was completed in 1921.
Creation of the Houston I.S.D. and construction of three new high schools in the 1920s led to another name change to Sam Houston High School. In 1927, Verna Benton organized Texas’ first all-girls marching drum and bugle corps, the Black Battalion (later the Houstonettes and the Tigerettes). The downtown school closed in 1952 and the building became school district offices. In 1955, a new high school built on Irvington Boulevard revived the name and traditions of Sam Houston High. Lyndon B. Johnson, who taught debate and public speaking at Sam Houston in 1930-31, made an education speech here on Nov. 2, 1964, the day before being elected to a full term as U.S. President. Later renamed the Sam Houston Math, Science & Technology Center, this institution has produced thousands of esteemed graduates, military veterans and young citizens of Houston
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.
Texas is a great place to be rich and a terrible place to be poor.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.
Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.
Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.
With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.
Harris County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Harris County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.
1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.
1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.
1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.
19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.
20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.
1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.
Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.