A Final Piece of History

I'm baaaack! Hey folks, I decided to take Labor Day off and then last Monday, I was preoccupied trying to find a new microwave oven. My old one went to that "Great Kitchen in the Sky".
This week, I'd like to wrap up my look at McAllen's historical markers. All three of the sites are on the north side of town and you can easily get from one to another.

The first marker is located at 707 N. 15th and is the Sam & Marjorie Miller House. The Millers were early McAllen Leaders. Mr Miller had a number of interests including co-ownership of the Hidalgo International Bridge. He is probably best know for his donation of 109 acres in 1930 for the establishment of a municipal airport. Today, that airport is known as McAllen Miller International Airport. The Miller house is a English Tudor Revival that was designed by Robert Vogler based on plans provided by Marjorie and built in 1937. It is said to be inspired by a trip to England. The house features Austin Cordova stonework, half-timbered gables and gumwood detailing. Note: This is a private residence, so respect the owners privacy.

If you turn right on Hackberry, just beyond the Miller house, and proceed to 10th st. , turn left and go a couple of blocks, you come to our second marker at 1009 N. 10th. Lamar Academy, aka Lamar Junior High. The school was built in 1939 as part of president Roosevelt's new deal. The school served as a high school for three years before becoming a junior high. Today, the school serves 8-12th grades, and houses programs such as the 8th grade transition, international baccalaureate and options in higher education high school.

If you continue north on 10th, turn right on Pecan and go to the intersection of 2nd and Pecan, you come to our last marker site. St. Paul Lutheran Church. The church originated in Pharr in 1916 and moved to McAllen in 1917. Early services were conducted in German and were held in the First Methodist Church. In 1919 the former McAllen Christian Church was purchased and used for services until the 1940's. A new building was erected in 1943 and in 1952 the current 20-acre site was purchased and is home to the sanctuary and school.

Well folks, that wraps up my tour of McAllen's historical markers. I hope you've enjoyed traveling around McAllen with me as I discovered some of this city's historical gems.