Buell School
Pharr, Hidalgo County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Constructed in 1927-28 to serve Mexican-American children in the Pharr-San Juan school district, this school replaced an earlier facility at this site. The new school was named in honor of educator Helen W. Buell (1861-1949), principal of the Pharr Mexican Ward School from 1924 to 1932. Designed by noted San Antonio architect Harvey Smith, the building's entry features modest Classical Revival detailing in its roof line scrollwork and bas-relief medallion over the entry. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1990
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Built in 1927-28, this school served Mexican-American children in the segregated Pharr-San Juan district, replacing an earlier facility on the site. It was named for educator Helen W. Buell, principal of the Pharr Mexican Ward School, and designed by noted San Antonio architect Harvey Smith with restrained Classical Revival touches. Its very existence reflects the separate schooling long imposed on Mexican-American students in South Texas.
Why it matters
The school stands as evidence of the segregation of Mexican-American children in Texas education and of the community that sought learning within it.
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Related people
- · Helen W. Buell
- · Harvey Smith
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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