Schreiner College (Schreiner Institute)
Kerrville, Kerr County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Kerrville leaders began to envision a college in the early days of the 20th century. Negotiations with the Presbyterian Synod of Texas were pursued from 1904, when plans were made for an annual camp meeting that might one day evolve into a boys' school. In 1914, local businessman Charles Schreiner (1838-1927) announced his plan to donate 140 acres of land and at least $100,000 to the Synod of Texas to fund the Charles Schreiner Institute for Boys. The plan was delayed by World War I. Finally, on September 18, 1923, the school's opening ceremonies were held, with James J. Delaney (1879-1959) as president. Ninety-five students were enrolled in the first year. The school stressed military discipline and religious instruction as a backdrop for general education. In 1932, girls were admitted as day students. Many students and younger faculty left Schreiner for military service and defense work during World War II, and a naval flight school was established at the institute for the war's duration. Sixty-six alumni lost their lives in World War II. Military training became optional in 1957. In 1971, the board of trustees voted to discontinue military training. Female boarding students were enrolled, and the recruitment of minority and disadvantaged students was instituted. The last high school class graduated in 1976. In 1984 the school became a four-year baccalaureate college. Schreiner College continues to evolve as one of Texas' leading private institutions. (1998)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Kerrville's dream of a college took shape when rancher and businessman Charles Schreiner pledged 140 acres and a major endowment to the Presbyterian Synod of Texas, a plan delayed by World War I before the school finally opened in 1923. Blending military discipline with religious and general education, the institute admitted girls as day students in 1932 and sent many students and faculty into service during World War II, when a naval flight school operated on campus and sixty-six alumni died in the war. Military training became optional in 1957 and ended in 1971, and the school grew into a four-year college by 1984.
Why it matters
Schreiner traces the evolution of a Texas military boys' academy into a modern coeducational college, mirroring how American higher education broadened across the 20th century.
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Related people
- · Charles Schreiner
- · James J. Delaney
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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