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History
in a Pecan ShellThis
community has no 19th Century history. It sprang up after 1900 and was named for
lumber/sawmill magnate W.O. Stamps who opened most of the local businesses – including
a gin and a canning factory.
Mr. Stamps also donated land for a church
and school as well as a Woodmen of the World hall. Although no population figures
are available, a sizable body of residents moved away after WWII.
Today
Stamps is remembered by the 45 local people who were counted for the 2000 census.
Photographers
Note:
“A historical marker is located
about a ½ mile west of the intersection of FM1649 and Gardenia Road. I made it
a point to go back here May 22, 2012. I had hurriedly photographed the marker
about a year ago and wanted to see what I might have missed. I am familiar with
the Stamps Baxter music company. In the 1940s and 50s I used to go with my parents
to ArkLaTex Singing Conventions that for a time were held in my hometown of Shreveport,
Louisiana. I always heard advertisements, speakers and songs from the Stamps-Baxter
Music Company and was surprised to learn it is still in operation.” - Gerald
Massey, May 25, 2012 |
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Stamps School Historical Marker
Photo
courtesy Gerald
Massey, July 2011 |
Site of Stamps
SchoolEstablished
Oct. 24, 1906, and named for settler William O. ("Uncle Billy") Stamps, who gave
land and materials for building.
Community children, including Stamps'
six sons, attended the school. Building also served as church and lodge hall.
At behest of W. O. Stamps, music teacher Roe M. Morgan was hired to operate a
singing school here. Through his inspiration, two of Stamps' sons, Virgil (1892-1940)
and Frank (1896-1965), became gospel singers and founded large music publishing
company and school.
Present school consolidated with New
Diana on March 3, 1934.
1971 |
Upshur
County TX 1920s Map showing Stamps
(Above
"HU" in "UPSHUR")
Courtesy Texas General Land Office |
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