San Jacinto School House

Walker County

Endangered school house, representing other endangered historic Texas school houses. Established in 1900 for grades one through seven, the San Jacinto School district built a “two-room” two-story school house in 1913. The building allowed for classrooms, a stable to accommodate horses and a canning house on the property. In 1948, the school district demolished that building and built the three-room building that exists today. In 1961 the San Jacinto School House was deeded to the West Sandy Community Center of Walker County. It has since been used for social gatherings, live musical entertainment, voting, and other community activities. Community members see the building as an example for creating awareness in rural communities to the plight of rural schools and their potential reuse in today’s society. The San Jacinto School House and the Crabbs Prairie School House are the only remaining rural schools in Walker County. San Jacinto School House is threatened by neglect and vandalism.

Update: The School House is owned by the West Sandy Community Association, which recently was revived after 25 years of inactivity. They have had tremendous support from West Sandy community residents. The restoration of the San Jacinto School House is progressing well. They repaired and resealed the roof and are now working on stabilizing the interior ceilings and walls. Subsequent plans are to install windows and doors, begin work on the interior, and build a new porch. The black and white photo was taken circa 1970-80s. The lower photo shows the progress that has been made in less than a year. If you wish to help, please send donations to: West Sandy Community Association P. O. Box 8942 Huntsville, TX 77340-0016