Tony and Frances Tirk, members of Sokol, a Czech athletic club, and boosters of gymnastics, considered this site the founding home of Texas high school gymnastic programs. After purchasing the farm in 1924, the Tirk family hosted Sokol picnics here for more than 50 years. On many occasions, as many as 135 Sokol members gathered to picnic, play games, and advocate gymnastic competition among Texas public schools. Two University of Texas graduates who were local athletic coaches took on the challenge of promoting the idea to Northeast Tarrant County schools, and success came in 1965. As Sokol members and Colleyville citizens spread the word, other schools adopted similar programs. Through the dedication of the Tirk family, including Tony's 12 years as a Sokol club officer and his lifelong promotion of school gymnastics, Texas came to be recognized nationally for its outstanding gymnastic programs.