Mrs. Merriweather Post
Post, Garza County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Daughter of C. W. Post. Lived in Texas 1888-1891. Had part with father in locating colony here 1906; rescued local economy by aid after 1917 drought. Co-donor, site for Post Recreation Center. Donor, South Plains Council Boy Scouts Camp; books and paintings to South Plains College. A leading philanthropist in arts and humanities. Benefactress, C. W. Post College, Long Island University; founder "Music for Young America." Recipient of 30 citations for service, 3 honorary degrees, 6 foreign decorations. A woman endowed with true virtues of generosity and compassion. 1968
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Marjorie Merriweather Post was the daughter of cereal magnate C. W. Post, who founded this West Texas colony town in 1906. When drought crippled the young farming community after 1917, she stepped in with relief that kept the local economy alive. Over a long life she became one of America's leading philanthropists in the arts and humanities, endowing colleges, scout camps, and youth-music programs.
Why it matters
Her story links a company-town experiment on the Texas plains to the great age of American philanthropy, showing how inherited industrial wealth was redirected into education and the arts.
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Related people
- · Marjorie Merriweather Post
- · C. W. Post
Related events
- · 1917 West Texas drought
Themes & tags
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