Marker Inscription
Founded in 1883 by W.W. Works (1856-1895), Polytechnic Institute was a private, coeducational school. A respected educator and native of this area, Works left here in 1888 to attend the University of Texas. When he returned in 1892, local stockholders erected a two-story school building at this site. After Works died, the facility became Whitten Institute, with the Rev. Thomas G. Whitten as president. It was also operated as Midlothian College. In 1907-08, the building was dismantled, and the property was acquired by former stockholder J.C. Kimmel. In 1915, his widow gave it to the city for use as a park.
About this site
Polytechnic Institute, Site of is a historical marker in Midlothian, Ellis County, dedicated in 1976. It is one of 116 historical markers documented in Ellis County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 300 historic sites cataloged across the county.
The site sits at 32.4836, -97.0012 near Midlothian. The nearest cataloged historic site is Hawkins, William L. and Emma, House (historical marker), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Midlothian Presbyterian Church, Midlothian Cemetery, and Trotter House.
This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5139007139. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.
