Belton in Bell County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
A Memorial to Civil War Education in Texas
State bounties for education that previously had aided Texas colleges stopped in 1861. Many of the 2,416 students of 1860 became soldiers; many of the 25 Texas colleges had to close.
Schools for younger children also suffered. The 1861 legislature passed free school laws, but could give no funds to schools. Children who waved from classroom doors to marching soldiers were going to subscription schools, paid for by their own parents. Old men, women and the disabled were the teachers. A mother or older sister often would "hear lessons" in the home.
Books were scarce. Paper was unobtainable for replacing those that wore out. Writing was done on slates or in sand spread smooth on a table.
Erected 1965 by State Historical Survey Committee. (Marker Number 45.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Education • War, US Civil. A significant historical year for this entry is 1861.
Location. 31° 3.946′ N, 97° 27.827′ W. Marker is in Belton, Texas, in Bell County. Marker is on Vann Circle west of College Street, on the left when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 304 Vann Cir, Belton TX 76513, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Luther Memorial (within shouting distance of this marker); Jeff Hamilton (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Distinguished Texan Robert Emmet Bledsoe Baylor (about 400 feet away); Scott & White School of Nursing (about 500 feet away); First Baptist Church (approx. 0.3 miles away); Belton Woman's Commonwealth (approx. 0.4 miles away); Norman Austin (approx. 0.4 miles away); Early Bell County Jail (approx. half a mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Belton.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 27, 2020. It was originally submitted on June 27, 2020, by Larry D. Moore of Del Valle, Texas. This page has been viewed 229 times since then and 16 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 27, 2020, by Larry D. Moore of Del Valle, Texas.