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A lasting reminder of the importance of educational institutions in the heart of rural East Texas, Post Oak School held its first classes in September 1892 on this site, on property then owned by Stephen Box. It served African-American students in the community and the surrounding area for more than 60 years. Built adjacent to the Mt. Olive Baptist Church, the first Post Oak school building contained the principal's office, a book room, seven classrooms and a kitchen. In 1939, a well-equipped vocational building was completed to house the homemaking and agricultural departments. Students came from as far away as eight miles to attend the ten grades of school offered here. Along with the church, Post Oak School served as a focal point for the community, providing both educational and cultural activities for its neighbors. Opportunities to participate in athletics, drama, music, dance and other social events made the school a vital part of community life. The students often won district championships in various interscholastic league competitions. After World War II, a declining population in the rural area resulted in partial consolidation of Post Oak School with neighboring schools in Lovelady and Crockett. Post Oak closed completely in 1955, but its history remains an important part of the educational record in Houston County. (2002) |
