TITLE: Commemorating the dedication of a Texas Historical Marker at Swindall School in Van.

SUMMARY: Commemorating the dedication of a Texas Historical Marker at Swindall School in Van.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Van Zandt County Historical Commission and the citizens of Van are celebrating the dedication of a Texas Historical Marker honoring Swindall School on May 21, 2011; and WHEREAS, Swindall School was the first school to be built in the farming community that would eventually become known as Van; it was established about 1880 on land donated by George W. Swindall, whose name became associated with both the school and the surrounding community; as a result of Mr. Swindall's generosity, area children were at last able to attend school on a regular basis; and WHEREAS, The first teacher to serve at Swindall School was T. W. Staton, and the school continued to operate with just one teacher until the fall of 1906, when John and Lucy Rhodes were hired; a post office opened in the community in 1894 and was designated Van, but the school retained the Swindall name; and WHEREAS, In 1903, the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court established the Van School District to manage Swindall and Spring Hill Schools; by 1915, growth in the district necessitated the construction of a larger facility to accommodate the increased enrollment; the schools at Swindall and Spring Hill closed after the 1915-1916 school year, and the new Van Common School opened in the fall of 1916; and WHEREAS, Recognition by the Texas Historical Commission highlights the contribution that Swindall School made to the development of Van and assures that the notable history of the school will be preserved for future generations; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the dedication of a Texas Historical Marker at Swindall School in Van and that all those involved in securing the historical marker be extended sincere appreciation; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the Van Zandt County Historical Commission as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Flynn Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1376 was adopted by the House on April 28, 2011, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House