Union Grove Schools
Union Grove, Upshur County, Texas
Marker Inscription
The earliest recorded school in this area was held at the home of pioneer settler John O'Byrne. In 1888, a public school opened with J.H. Sheppard as the teacher. The first half of the 20th Century say much growth for Union Grove schools, with the creation of Union Grove Common School District No. 42 in 1907; the construction of new buildings in 1909, 1920 and 1933; and the 1930s oil boom, which greatly increased the tax base and population of the district. Over the years, the Union Grove school campus expanded to include elementary, junior and senior high schools, an auditorium, cafeteria, library, shop buildings and a football stadium. In 1965, Union Grove became an independent school district.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Education in this corner of Upshur County began in the home of pioneer settler John O'Byrne before a public school opened in 1888. The first half of the 20th century brought steady growth, with a formal school district in 1907, new buildings across the 1900s, 1920s, and 1930s, and an oil boom that swelled the district's population and tax base. The expanding campus eventually held elementary, junior, and senior high schools before becoming an independent district in 1965.
Why it matters
Union Grove's growth from a settler's parlor to a full campus captures how oil wealth reshaped rural east Texas schools in the early 20th century.
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Related people
- · John O'Byrne
- · J.H. Sheppard
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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