Jacksboro in Jack County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)

Birthplace of Texas 4-H Clubs

(About 1 Mi. NE)

Photographed By Jeff Leichsenring, April 10, 2023

1. Birthplace of Texas 4-H Clubs Marker

Inscription. First Texas Boys' Corn Club was founded in Jacksboro, 1908, by Tom M. Marks (1865-1906), first Jack County agent. This was a forerunner of U.S. 4-H clubs, now international, and part of the cooperative extension service. Lack of adult interest in a 1907 corn show prompted friends to tell Marks, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks". Marks replied, "Then I'll start with the pups". 111 boys enrolled as demonstrators. Marks' 1908 show drew national attention, and he was called to Washington to aid in setting up extension program.

Erected 1968 by State Historical Survey Committee. (Marker Number 416.)

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Fraternal or Sororal Organizations.

Location. 33° 13.087′ N, 98° 9.703′ W. Marker is in Jacksboro, Texas, in Jack County. Marker is at the intersection of West Belknap Street (U.S. 380) and South Gwaltney Street, on the left when traveling west on West Belknap Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 237 West Belknap Street, Jacksboro TX 76458, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. First Baptist Church (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Fort Richardson Hotel (approx. 0.2 miles away); First Bank Building in County

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(approx. 0.2 miles away); Jack County (approx. 0.2 miles away); Old Jack County Courthouse Cornerstone (approx. 0.2 miles away); Butterfield Stage Line (approx. ¼ mile away); Former Gulf, Texas & Western Railroad Depot (approx. ¼ mile away); Old Hess Building (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Jacksboro.

Photographed By Jeff Leichsenring, April 10, 2023

2. Birthplace of Texas 4-H Clubs Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on April 12, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 11, 2023, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. This page has been viewed 102 times since then and 23 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 11, 2023, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. • James Hulse was the editor who published this page.