History Lesson:
Founded in 1846 and named after Texas Revolution hero General Sidney Sherman, Sherman, Texas, evolved from a frontier town into an educational, agricultural, and industrial hub. Located in North Texas near the Oklahoma border, it became known as "The Athens of Texas" for its early focus on education.
Key Historical Details
- "The Athens of Texas": The city gained this nickname in the late 19th century due to its high concentration of educational institutions, including the prestigious Austin College, which was moved to Sherman in 1876.
- The 1930 Sherman Riot: A dark point in the city's history occurred in May 1930, when a mob burned down the courthouse and the Black business district following the accusation of a Black farmhand, George Hughes.
- Post-War Development: Following World War II, the city diversified its economy, embracing manufacturing in industries such as electronics, surgical supplies, and steel fabrication.
- Modern Era: Today, Sherman has evolved into a key industrial site, highlighted by a major $30 billion expansion by Texas Instruments begun in 2021.
- Founding & Location: Originally established in 1846 four miles west of its current site, the county seat was moved to its present location in 1848 to secure better water and timber resources. It was officially incorporated in 1858.
- Agricultural and Industrial Growth:
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sherman became a center for flour milling (beginning in 1861), cotton ginning, and oil milling.
Notable Historical Landmarks & Figures
- West Hill Cemetery: Featuring a mausoleum built in 1920, this site has been a key part of the community since the 1850s.
- Buck Owens: Country music legend Buck Owens was born in Sherman in 1929.
- Texas Theater Sign: A significant 1930s-40s cultural landmark recently returned to the city for display.
Sherman has grown from its agricultural roots into a modern suburban hub within the North Texas region, while maintaining its educational and historical significance.
Cache Information:
This is a two stage multi-cache. At stage one is a State of Texas Historical Marker located on the original site of Sherman, Texas. Read this marker to find the answer to the question below. The answer will lead you to the final. The final is located at N 33 40.681 W 96 41.ABC. You will need a TOTT for retrieval of this cache.
On what holiday was a special celebration picnic for the completion of the structure held? This will answer for ABC.
Memorial Day- 733
Fourth of July- 933
Labor Day- 833
Thanksgiving- 633