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.
Getting there
32.4836, -97.0027
Locations are approximate and may be inaccurate, on private land, or otherwise inaccessible. Check before you travel.
Hear it from the road
Whistlestop tells you this story automatically when you drive past. No searching, no tapping, nothing to ask.
