Established in Independent School District No. 1, in 1875. First free public high school in Texas to be set up under landmark school law of 1875. Nine grades were offered, with scientific or classical courses of study in high school. German was available for all grades. This building was erected in 1883, with 15-inch brick walls, cedar beams, and plaster mixed with cow hair. Windows and doors have marble arches and sills. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1969