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 William Henry Burnett
N 32° 43.607 W 096° 16.938
14S E 754696 N 3624266
Texas Historical Marker noting the outstanding career of educator and civic leader, William Henry Burnett, in front of the elementary school bearing his name at 921 S Rockwall Ave, Terrell, TX.
Waymark Code: WMPF76
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 08/21/2015
Views: 3
Marker Number: 9423
Marker Text:
(1872 - 1944)
In the 1880s Presbyterian missionary Alexander R. Wilson began conducting school in the rural South Prong community of Ellis County. One of his pupils was a promising black farm boy named William Henry Burnett. Through Wilson's personal guidance, Burnett received an education and was awarded a scholarship to Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. Trained as a teacher, he returned to Texas where he dedicated his life to the education of black children.
After teaching in several communities, including South Prong, Burnett became principal of Terrell's Black School in 1900. Among his accomplishments during 44 years of service in that capacity were the organization of the system's first high school program and the formation of a school band which he directed. Noted for his public speaking ability and his teacher workshops and seminars, he became one of the leading educators of the state. He was also an active Mason, church member and civic leader.
Burnett's commitment to quality education had a dramatic impact on the development of Terrell's school system. Because of his lasting contributions to area children, the elementary school at this site was named for him in 1979. (1982)
Incise plate on reverse:
This marker sponsored by The 22 Marechal Neil Club of Terrell
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