Oakland Normal School

Robert Lloyd Smith, who ran the school, was born free in Charleston in 1861 and held a degree from Atlanta University. From Oakland he built something larger. In 1890 he founded the Farmers' Home Improvement Society in Colorado County, urging Black farmers toward owning their land and homes, buying cooperatively and in cash rather than on credit, and growing much of their own food. The society paid sickness and death benefits, held fairs and spread across Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas, adding an agricultural college at Wolfe City in 1906 and the Farmers' Improvement Bank in Waco.

What the plaque says

Oakland Normal School Founded in 1882, the Oakland Normal School provided professional training for black schoolteachers for three decades. G. R. Townsend served as first principal, but for most of the school's existence it was directed by Robert L. Smith, a respected educator who also served in the Texas Legislature. Conducting classes during spring and summer vacation periods, Oakland Normal School provided educational opportunities to teachers from seven southeast Texas counties. It was considered one of the finest institutions of its kind in the state. (1990)

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Oakland — steps away
• Site of Former Town of Lyons — 5.9 mi
• Schulenburg — 7.1 mi
• John Pettit Borden — 7.2 mi