June 2024
By Charlotte Brooks
Imagine a life where every challenge is met with a spirit of adventure and resilience. This was
the life of Maud Smith Marks, born on March 10,1887, in Blue Earth, Minnesota. As the first
child of Fred Henry Smith and Martha Elizabeth Clark, Maud's journey was filled with
remarkable moments and a passion for education that would define her legacy.
A Remarkable Beginning
Maud's early years were anything but typical. At just three years old, she caught the eye of a
Dakota Indian chieftain with her striking black hair. The chieftain offered her father $200 to buy
her -- a significant sum at the time. However, Fred Henry Smith, valuing his daughter far beyond
any monetary measure, declined. This moment highlighted the deep bond and strength within the
Smith family.
Roots and Heritage
Maud's ancestry was a rich tapestry woven from English, Scottish, and Irish threads, all settled in
colonial Connecticut. This diverse heritage was steeped in literacy and learning, values that
Maud embraced throughout her life. In 1899, the Smith family moved to Texas, marking the
beginning of Maud's formal journey in education. At twelve, she took over as a teacher when her
own instructor fell ill, showcasing her early leadership and dedication to learning.
A Lifelong Love for Learning
Books were a cornerstone of Maud's life. Her nights were often filled with the company of
multiple volumes, reflecting her insatiable curiosity. This love for learning extended to her
husband, Emil H. Marks, whom she married in 1912. Under Maud's influence, Emil transformed
from a rugged cowboy into a well-read gentleman. Their shared passion for reading created a
household rich in knowledge and cultural appreciation.
Their children were the beneficiaries of this intellectual environment, all attending college.
Maud's daughter, Atha, fondly remembered the blend of ranch life and the cultural opportunities
of Houston, a testament to Maud's influence.
Community Leadership and Innovation
Maud's impact stretched beyond her family and into her community. She became a leader in the
4-H movement and the Barker Home Demonstration Club, where she taught modem methods of
food preparation, canning, and home improvements. One of her most notable achievements was
transforming an abandoned Katy Railroad depot into a clubhouse for the demonstration club -- a
true testament to her ingenuity and determination.
A Legacy of Hospitality and Culture
The Marks family home, the LH7 Ranch, was synonymous with hospitality. Maud's kitchen was
legendary, always prepared to welcome unexpected guests with a warm and bountiful table.
Beyond her culinary prowess, Maud ensured her children were immersed in cultural experiences,
from opera to symphony concerts, fostering a love for the arts.
Trials and Triumphs
Life was not without its challenges. In a heart-wrenching decision, Maud was separated from her
daughter, Atha, for two years due to health reasons. Atha spent most of 1922 and 1923 on the
plains of Texas, boarding with another family. Despite the emotional toll, this period led to
Atha's remarkable recovery. Maud's resilience shone through as she maintained a nurturing and
supportive family environment, even during such difficult times.
Between 1952 and 1988, Atha rode in every Salt Grass Trail Ride except the first—twice by
wagon and other years horseback. In 1988, at age seventy-seven, she received an award as the
oldest lady to make the entire ride horseback. She was also honored as the outstanding trail rider
that year.
During the late 1980’s, Atha became active with the Friends of the Maud Marks Library, a
support group for a Harris County branch library to be named after her mother. Plans called for
a twelve thousand square foot facility with capacity for seventy thousand volumes. This
collection would reflect the interests of the Bear Creek/Katy area of western Harris County.
Atha lived a full life, remaining active in the community well into her 90s, including her
involvement with the Friends of the Maud Marks Library and the Salt Grass Trail riders.
Education and Community Service
Maud was a pioneer in rural education, ensuring that her children and those in the community
had access to learning materials. In the 1920s, she initiated a contract with Harris County to have
library books delivered to Barker, Texas. This initiative led to the operation of the first small
county library in Barker, initially from the church and later the store. Maud's efforts ensured that
local children had library cards and access to books, fostering a culture of reading and learning in
the community.
In recognition of her dedication, the Maud Smith Marks Branch Library was opened in her honor
in 1993, cementing her legacy in education.
Embracing Modern Conveniences
Always ahead of her time, Maud embraced modem conveniences that improved life on the
ranch. She was among the first in her community to use appliances like the Maytag washing
machine, which she creatively adapted for churning butter. Her innovative spirit extended to her
father, Fred Smith, who crafted practical household tools, including a unique butter chum
attachment for the washing machine. Maud was also a pioneer in adopting electricity, indoor
plumbing, telephones, and even a 1913 Model T automobile.
Conclusion
Maud Smith Marks's life is a testament to the power of knowledge, the importance of
community, and the enduring strength of family ties. Her story is not just a chronicle of her times
but a celebration of a woman whose intellect, spirit, and compassion were truly ahead of her era.
Maud's contributions enriched everyone around her, and her legacy continues to inspire us today.
Through education, community service, and unwavering family dedication, Maud Smith Marks
left an indelible mark on her world, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have
on their community and beyond.
