Stephen J. Hay School Plaque

From a simple paper company executive to the mayor who shaped modern Dallas, the story of Stephen J. Hay unfolds right here at the Stephen J. Hay School Plaque. This plaque commemorates not just a school, but the legacy of a man who significantly impacted Dallas. Stephen J. Hay, born in Georgia in 1864, arrived in Dallas in 1887. He became an executive at the Texas Paper Company. His journey into public service began with the Dallas Board of Education, where he served for eight years. In 1907, a pivotal moment arrived. Hay became the first mayor of Dallas elected under the new mayor-council government system, replacing the old ward system. The Stephen J. Hay School, initially built in 1921 with simple frame classrooms, later received a major upgrade. A new 16-room brick schoolhouse, designed by architect Thomas J. Galbraith, was constructed in 1926. Hay’s two terms as mayor saw the city embark on ambitious projects. These included the first city plan by George Kessler, the establishment of Southern Methodist University, and the construction of White Rock Dam and Reservoir. The Houston Street Viaduct, a new city hall, a hospital, and several fire stations were also built during his tenure. Hay’s vision for a modern Dallas didn’t end with his mayorship. He continued to be a prominent figure in banking, insurance, and the chamber of commerce. The Stephen J. Hay School Plaque stands as a testament to his contributions, a reminder of the man who helped shape the Dallas we know today. This plaque, established in 2007, captures the spirit of a leader who left an indelible mark on the city’s history.