Can you imagine a time before Southlake was a bustling city? The Carroll School Plaque, right here in front of you, tells the story of a simpler time, a time when Southlake was a collection of farms and small schools.
The plaque stands as a tribute to Carroll School, the first public building in Southlake. Before its construction, the area was primarily rural, with children attending one-room schools spread across Tarrant County. In 1917, several of these schools were consolidated to form Common School District No. 99.
It was a time of great change and growth for the region, and the new school was a symbol of the community’s commitment to education. A five-acre hilltop property was sold for $500, and a three-room brick schoolhouse was built soon after.
Carroll School served the community well. In 1956, when Southlake held its first election, it was at Carroll School where residents voted to become a town. The school also served as town hall for a few years.
In 1959, the Carroll Independent School District was born, but the original Carroll School continued to play a vital role in the lives of the students. It remained an elementary school until 1970, and then served as classrooms and office space until 2001 when it was closed.
Despite its enduring historical significance, Carroll School didn’t last. The plaque stands as a reminder of the past, a symbol of Southlake’s humble beginnings. It reminds us that even though things change, the spirit of community and commitment to education endures.