Category Archives: Places to Tour

Heritage House Museum (Orange Texas)

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Heritage House

After a few weeks of cold winter weather, I was ready to shed my cabin fever and explore. While in Orange, Texas, near the Lamar State College-Orange, I happened upon the Heritage House Museum. I’ve known about this house-museum for a while, but time constraints and scheduling hampered my ability to visit it sooner. A visit was therefore long overdue.

As we entered the house, I couldn’t help but compare it to the Vuylsteke House (Port Arthur) and Chambers House (Beaumont). These three houses share a similar quality: unlike the vast wealth, multiple china plate settings, and dark wood of the Stark House, most of you reading this blog would probably be able to see yourselves or your descendants living in these houses. For this reason, they are definitely my favorites. It’s kind of like going back in time and visiting Grandma. IMG_9461

The Jimmy Ochlitree Sims home was originally built on Front Street in Orange but was moved in 1975 after it was acquired by the City of Orange. According to the Heritage House Museum’s website, the house was “given by contract to the Heritage House Association of Orange County, with the provision the house would be moved and renovated as a historical museum for Orange County.” The house was thus restored to its 1919 splendor. Most of the furnishings are from the Sims family, but there are some items that have been donated by the community over the years.

IMG_9482One of my personal highlights is the small phonograph on display. I’ve seen many Victrola’s but never one like this. Another favorite is the tin ceiling in the kitchen. Again, I have never seen this type of craftsmanship before.

There are so many beautiful pieces and furnishings throughout this house that they should be seen in person to fully appreciate them. As I mentioned earlier, these types of houses are my favorites and love to visit them regularly—and so should you! IMG_9507

The Heritage House Museum of Orange County is located at 905 W. Division Street Orange, Texas.

Museum tours are conducted Tuesday through Friday from 10:00AM – 4:00 PM. Group tours must be scheduled by appointment. Phone (409) 886-5385 to arrange a group tour.

Admission

Adults                         $3.00

Adults 50+                  $2.00

Students                      $1.00

Children’s Groups       $.50

Members                     Free

Source: Heritage House Museum of Orange County

Please also visit our Flickr page for photos of this tour and our tour of the Lutcher Memorial Building.

Heritage House Photo Tour

Lutcher Memorial Building Photo Tour

 

A Look Back and a Look Forward

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2013 was a grand year for me here at Rediscovering Southeast Texas. I had the opportunity to explore many wonderful places and meet countless interesting people. I believe that with your help, 2014 will be even better. SETX has a rich history, and I would like to share it with as many people as possible. Your input is important, and I welcome your suggestions, insights, and stories.

The Houses:

Dolls and Train at Rose Hill ManorRose Hill Manor is a Port Arthur treasure that I had never visited—until 2013. To find out that Donia Thibodeaux’s doll collection is on display there brought back scores of memories. I knew Mrs. Thibodeaux back in the 1990s and found her to be the nicest of individuals who was also most informative about the old Port Arthur.

“The reason Griffin Park roads are the way they are is because they were once wagon trails. You can’t turn a wagon on a dime. You have to make a wide swing.” Thanks, Mrs. Thibodeaux, you are missed.IMG_1233

The Women’s Club of Beaumont is a place that I have passed many times, but it wasn’t until 2013 that I finally got to see inside. Thank you, Mrs. Walker- King, for the invite. Over its 100-plus years, the who’s who of Beaumont have been associated with this house in one way or another. I’m glad it’s in good hands.

It goes without saying that the Chambers, French, and McFaddin-Ward houses were a favorite stop as well.

The Museums:

IMG_57782013 also brought us a new museum. The Museum of Hardin County, located in Kountze, opened its doors in August, and what a fantastic source of SETX history this is for all of us to cherish. Not only does it show all Hardin County’s history, but it is a valuable repository for neighboring counties as well.

Speaking of Hardin County, I was invited to the Terry Bertha Cromwell Museum in Sour Lake in October. This is another destination that everyone who is interested in SETX history should frequent. From the birth of Texaco to the old Hardin County jail, it’s all on display. My favorites are the photographs—I particularly love the old photos of the early Hardin County families.Sour Lake Jail

The History:

This year I found out about the origin of the name Beauxart Gardens, located in Mid-Jefferson County, as well as life in Port Arthur during World War II. These insights were shared by two people who experienced life in the 30s and 40s firsthand. I found their stories irresistible and would love to hear more. Do you know someone with a story to tell? My contact info is at the end of this article.IMG_1428

2013 was also the 100th anniversary of the Interurban. The Interurban was an electric train that ran between Port Arthur and Beaumont from December 15, 1913, to August 15, 1932. This is a subject that I would like to investigate further in the future.

The Events:

Line at Wehmeyer HouseCertainly many events took place in SETX last year. One of my favorites was the Galveston Historic Homes Tour. There were nine notable private homes on display for all of us to experience and enjoy, but the 10th, which you might remember as being the cause of the Great Bootie Debacle, was simple, modern, and dangerous. Yep, it’s always those folk who screw up a tour. Just say “no” to tours involving booties. They may just get you into trouble.

Orangefield 2In 2013, Orangefield turned 100, and what a celebration these fine folks put on. The Cormier Museum was also open for people to browse through and enjoy. Another highlight was a visit from the Big Thicket Outlaws. Tejano and clan always put on a good show.IMG_6720

2013 was also a year of remembrance for American history. It marked the sesquicentennial of many of the War against the States battles, and Sabine Pass was no exception.  The 50th anniversary of Dick Dowling Days and the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Sabine Pass drew many spectators and reenactors—both foreign and domestic—and was a huge success. I personally met a lot of new and fascinating people. Indeed, I never knew what really went into reenacting, but after talking to a few accomplished living historians, I now realize that it involves a substantial amount of time and effort.

Texas fight DDD2013For that reason, I would like to say what a tremendous job the members of the Dick Dowling Camp #1295 and the Kate Dorman OCR Chapter 11 did in making this event possible. Some members certainly went above and beyond the call of duty. Thanks especially to Mr. Michael McGreevy.

Jane Long Days in Bolivar brought many things, too. I was particularly glad to see such a fine lady remembered as such. The new memorial, located at the entrance to Fort Travis, is one of a kind, and I was happy to see a few Texan reenactors at this event. Another gift, brought to us by the Galveston Historical Commission, was the opening of Battery 236. This structure, built in the 1940s during WWII, is not the only fortification on the peninsula—two more had previously been built in 1898, and another in 1917.IMG_8307

Shangri La in Orange has always been a favorite of mine. I especially love the Scarecrow Festival (in October) and the Evening Strolls (in December). There is always something to see in this astonishing place, especially if you are into wildlife photography. IMG_1879

IMG_9580The Liberty County Historical Commission put on “Whispers from the Past” in October, both as a fundraiser and to promote their rich heritage. I hope this becomes a yearly event because it really inspired me to search my own backyard (so to speak). Whether it’s Magnolia Cemetery (Beaumont), Greenlawn (Port Arthur), or Oak Bluff (Port Neches), there are stories waiting to be told. So stay tuned!

One of my highlights of 2013 was undoubtedly the new discoveries in my research into Florence Stratton’s life. After 14 months’ investigation, I can now finally say that her birthdate is March 21, 1881. I discovered two mentions of this in her column, “Susie Spindletop’s Weekly Letter.” Furthermore, a descendent from the Stephens/Stevens family kindly donated 62 letters from Asa Evan Stratton (Florence’s father), Asa’s brother, and Emily (Florence’s older sister), to the Tyrrell Historical Library. Thanks to a letter written by Emily, dated February 1883, along with the 1900 census record, I was finally able to confirm that Florence was born in 1881 and to therefore dismiss Eunice’s (Florence’s niece) account in the Texas Historical and Biographical Record that Florence was born in 1883. Yes, it’s a relatively minuscule detail, but if one is doing historical preservation, I believe this type of information needs to be correct.fs14

2014:

I am looking forward to this New Year and all that it holds. If you have a story, know of a legend, or have any interesting historical treasures to share, I would love to hear from you. I am also looking for historical houses, old cemeteries, and museums that many people may not know about.

Here’s to you, SETX! Thank you for your continued interest and support.

My Contact information: rediscoveringsetx@gmail.com

Where to find us

 

Bertha Terry Cornwell Museum / Sour Lake

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IMG_7840   Last week I had the pleasure of visiting the Cornwell Museum, along with some of Sour Lake’s other historic sites. I will say once again that there is so much to see and learn in Hardin County, and its oldest surviving city is certainly filled with history. Sour Lake was settled in 1835 when Stephen Jackson was granted the land by the Mexican State of Coahuilla. The name itself is derived from the sulfurous spring water, which was abundant in the area at the time. These mineral wells would play a big part in the area’s early years. In fact, a health resort was constructed around them, complete with bath houses and a fine hotel. Sam Houston was a frequent visitor here in his later years and liked to indulge in the healing properties of the wells. There were even plans to build a glorious spa, but in 1903, all that changed.IMG_7845 If you do a search for The Texas Company, you will see that it was founded in Beaumont, but a company without a product doesn’t have much leg to stand on. Luckily, The Texas Company Fee No. 3 in Sour Lake struck oil on January 8, 1903, and so began Texaco’s rise as a major oil producer. IMG_7861The Bertha Terry Cornwell Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and photos. These range from The Texas Company history to the founding families that established the commercial side of Sour Lake. One could spend numerous hours looking through the Museum’s vast collection—so vast in fact that the curators cannot put it all on display. But it is there for historians and history seekers such as myself to enjoy and learn from. Indeed, I would like to extend a big thank you to the curator and the others who made my visit so enjoyable. Their knowledge is immeasurable and the time they spent sharing this with me is greatly appreciated. Also on the property are Hardin County’s original jail cells, which were in use from 1870 to 1888. These were also subsequently utilized between 1903 and 1965 as Hardin County’s sub-jail cells.IMG_7868 My exploration included a walk through downtown Sour Lake, and I was delighted to see the charming murals on some of its finely restored buildings. It would seem that the people of Sour Lake have done a fantastic job of preserving its history, and I for one thank them for their efforts and hope to frequent this part of SETX more often. IMG_7898

The Cornwell Museum is located at 300 South Ann St. behind the Alma M. Carpenter Bldg.

 Click on the link below to see more photos.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25032584@N05/sets/72157636527911463/

Dick Dowling Days 2013

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Now that the sesquicentennial of the Battle of Sabine Pass and the 50th anniversary of Dick Dowling Days has come and gone, I sit in front of this keyboard in remembrance—remembrance not of the battle itself or our history, but of the people involved in this year’s events. Whether they be the re-enactors or the historians or its proud planners, for whom I have an enormous amount of respect, especially after this celebration. I contributed only a minuscule part behind the scenes with the writing of the press release, and this pales in comparison to the sleepless nights and long volunteer days and nights that these few people put forth to make this event a success. They are to be commended and saluted. You all did an outstanding job!DSC06578

Please enjoy the photos on our Flickr page.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25032584@N05/sets/72157635422654445/

I will also be posting a few videos of the battles and scenarios on our youtube page.

Museum of Hardin County

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Museum of Hardin County

 

A lot of new things are afoot in Hardin County. I’ve wanted to explore the history of my northern neighbors for quite some time now, and I found a treasure trove of contacts, historians, and awesome people who love their part of SETX. I was overjoyed to be on hand at the ribbon cutting of the new museum at 830 Maple Street in Kountze, Texas, and I was definitely not alone in the celebration. Many locals pitched up to see just what these determined citizens had established. All I can say is that the Hardin County Genealogical Society and Library (HCGS) has done a fantastic job. I know that loads of hard work went into the creation of this treasured site, which will not only benefit the citizens of Hardin County, but all the people of SETX as well.IMG_5813

The museum is located in the old Hardin County State Bank building, which was built circa 1916. Purchased in 2009 by the HCGS, the building’s renovation was undertaken by its volunteers and funded through donations, grants, and proceeds from book sales. As an aside, I will add that I do love Renée Hart Wells’ book, Hardin County: A Pictorial History. It is one of my favorites in my growing library of SETX authors. It is also one of the books whose sales have funded this project. Mrs. Wells has written a new book, Hardin County: Timeless Treasures, which is also available for purchase at the museum. It will certainly be my next purchase.

IMG_5846The second floor of the museum houses the Hardin County Historical Commission. It has been refurbished and transformed into a grand meeting place for its members.

Overall, the museum is an excellent venue for anyone looking for historic information on Hardin County. The people I met there seemed eager to promote their vast heritage, and I for one place high value on the work they are doing. I look forward with great anticipation to hearing more about the developments in Hardin County and rediscovering this part of SETX.IMG_5795

 

 

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25032584@N05/sets/72157635014442489/

Beaumont Police Department Museum

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I recently visited a museum that is not well known although, if you’re a SETX elementary teacher or student, you may be familiar with it. I visited the Beaumont Police Department’s History Museum, and boy, was I amazed at the range of artifacts, historical photos, and weapons on display at what was once the old Beaumont jail.DSC05317

It made me think back to the 1970s when I attended school in Port Arthur. As fourth or fifth graders, my classmates and I toured the Port Arthur jail. My only recollection of this was a prisoner, who was probably a frequent visitor, talking to us through the cell bars and the Bloomfield Hills law firm handling sex crimes claims by telling us that crime doesn’t pay, and we mustn’t allow ourselves to end up in prison. To a young child, this was a definite deterrent, but we never really learned anything of historical value that I can remember. Truth be told, the Port Arthur Police Department may also have a museum and tours, but I have yet to revisit the venue of my juvenile field trip.

DSC05318My first impression of this Beaumont tour without a doubt was one of amazement at the volume of historical content and artifacts that these slim halls possess. Whether it’s the badges, well-preserved uniforms, or the multiple armaments that criminals have donated over the years, this assortment of crime paraphernalia would make any collector drool.

Another enjoyable display was of the countless mug shots that our not-so-model citizens have generously donated, along with descriptions of the plethora of their crimes. From knob knocking (stealing and then breaking into a safe) and close-line thievery, to even voodoo (presumably not the well-intentioned kind), it was definitely a glimpse into a different time.DSC05322

My main objective for this trip was to delve into Beaumont’s early history of law enforcement, and as I’ve already said, the Beaumont officials have done a wonderful job of bringing the past to life. As you take the tour, there is much to absorb. There is a lot of personal history about officers long since passed, who in their humble way made a difference in the community.

DSC05316In my opinion, this is a must-see for anyone with a desire for knowledge about local history, and I for one will return to take a more extensive look at those officers whose stories I believe need to be told.DSC05320

Rediscovering You’re One Year Old

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RSETXlight

With the conclusion of the 39th Annual Galveston Historic Homes Tour, I can’t help but notice that it has been one year since this blog began. The people I have met, the places I have seen, and the history I have learned have been priceless. In reflecting on this past year, I find myself asking: where should I begin?

The Peoplefs14

Certainly there are many people who deserve a spot in my wishful “if I could go back in time and talk to” roundtable discussion. Two obvious candidates who would be high on my list are Kate Dorman and Florence Stratton, both of whom I did not know of before early April 2012. I will refrain from adding the other eight in light of a future blog.

One of the most interesting lives that I have stumbled upon certainly has to be that of Blind Willie. Something about being at my first Jefferson County Historical Commission meeting and hearing his name enticed me to find out just how this Beaumont resident had contributed to music.BlindWillieJohnson

Later, I delved into Richard William Dowling’s life beyond the battles he fought. Although such a young man, he accomplished a great deal. Indeed, if he had lived longer, his run of prosperity would surely have continued, and some say he might probably even have run for governor of Texas. Unfortunately we will never know the impact of what could have been. 0_DickDowling

 

 

 

 

The Places

FountainThis blog was created in part because I wanted to cast a spotlight on some of the great treasures that we have in SETX. Not forgetting the three gems in Port Arthur, namely, the Pompeiian Villa, the Vuylsteke, and White Haven, I will say that Beaumont’s Chambers House is my favorite hands-down. All these places have a certain mystique about them, which I love.

I was also thrilled to learn of the Neches River Adventure Tour, and thoroughly enjoyed the rich beauty of our area when I took a trip down the Neches River and spent time amongst the cypress trees.DSC02289

One of my favorite explorations has to be the Jefferson County Courthouse. All thirteen floors, including the old jail, revealed yet another part of our history that I never knew existed.JC Courthouse Jail

 

The History

SETX has its share of historical significance, and I was able to delve into just a small portion of it over the past year. From the discovery of stalags throughout Texas, including Jefferson and Orange counties, to a civil war battle in Sabine Pass and the majestic lighthouse, which stood guard for nearly 100 years. I also explored the destructive aspect of living on the Gulf coast via our tropical storm history.100.jpg

Legends of our past, like Kisselpoo or Bragg Road, have had a fascinating hold on this researcher when digging for the root of the source.

Learning of the existence and disappearance of an oil pond just off the coast of Texas Point filled me with many more questions, including whether or not Spindletop had a hand in its disappearance.

The Future

This has been an epic year in terms of my thirst for both discovering and rediscovering SETX’s past, and I see much of the same in the next year. I will certainly be exploring Orange and Hardin counties a bit more.

As importantly however, I would like to know what you would like to see here, whether it is the houses, museums, people, or history. You can contact me by email rediscoveringsetx@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can also leave a comment on our Facebook page or @RediscoveringSE on Twitter. Here’s to another great year rediscovering SETX!

 

Clifton Steamboat Museum

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This post will certainly have to be divided into two parts because that’s just how much the Clifton Museum has to offer: from fine art, sculptures, authentic models of sailing ships and steamboats, to an eye-catching full-fledged tugboat sitting majestically on the property for all to see. I truly spent hours enjoying all the old photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia from our past; not to mention the amazing statues that line the grounds.DSC04993

I had passed this museum a few times previously but this was the first time I actually embarked on an exploration of its many treasures. Beginning with the steamboat smokestacks at the entrance to the parking near O’Hearn’s Pub, I felt that this place was very different from the norm. By the way, yes, O’Hearn’s is a full service pub that would make Richard William Dowling proud. Unfortunately it’s not open for business but it can be rented, along with Moresi’s Foundry, which is an excellent place to hold meetings, parties, reunions, etc.

DSC04946The first thing that caught my eye as I entered the museum was a tall wooden structure. Yes, the models of early ships were in view along with the last engine of the tug Hercules, but this structure was both massive and intriguing. I was told it was part of the grain elevator at the port of Port Arthur. It was built between 1895 and 1898 and constructed almost entirely of Longleaf Yellow Pine, which is now extinct.

As you walk through the museum, you will find an abundance of collections and exhibits. The first two “eye-catchers” are the many ship models, including the City of Beaumont replica for which a plank from the original ship was used to make the railings and decking. These models were created by Robert V. Haas. I must say that the fine detail that went into these treasures is amazing. The second is a collection by sculptor Matchett Herring Coe. There are many pieces of his work on display.

There are many other exhibits lining the rest of the first floor, most of which are tributes to those who fought for this land. Whether you’re interested in the Native American “Freedom Warrior” display or the Texas Revolution, the Civil War, WW1, WW2, Korean Conflict, or Vietnam War exhibits, they are all here. And truth be told, I have yet to explore the second floor.DSC04969

Like most of my jaunts, my first visit was full of pleasurable historical discovery. The Clifton Museum will not disappoint; it has a tremendous amount of history from all realms on offer, and I hear there are many other opportunities in the works as well. So stay tuned!

For those who are members of the Beaumont Heritage Society, the annual meeting will be held at O’Hearn’s Pub on May 21st at 5:30 pm. The museum will be open to the public at 4 pm so everyone can have a look around. I will certainly be there!

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http://www.cliftonsteamboatmuseum.com/

Tours are available by appointment only. Please call (409)842-3162 for more information regarding the Clifton Steamboat Museum.

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The Clifton Steamboat Museum Complex is a beautiful meeting place and entertainment facility for groups up to 300. Banquet facilities are available to accommodate any type of party, seminar, meeting or reunion. For more information please click here or call (409)842-3162.

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La Maison Beausoleil Museum

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La Maison BeausoleilLately I have spent every non-working minute doing research for an upcoming project, which I will elaborate on at a later date. This can be very fun and interesting, but spending hours upon hours peering into a computer screen and/or microfilm at the historical library does tend to be tedious and time-consuming. That is why, today, I decided I’d had enough. It was time to take a break. So, with camera in hand, I headed out the door toward the river. 

As I drove down Grigsby Avenue, near the old jail, I noticed that the windows of the old cabin in Port Neches Park were open. Of course, I had to investigate, so I immediately began my exploration.Grigsby's Bluff Jail

Truth be told, I have wanted to tour this small 200-year-old museum for a long time, but I was either unable to make it to the park at the time the volunteer was there or the house was closed up. To be fair, the owners of these obscure little historic homes are not able to have either a paid or unpaid docent available a lot of the time. It is the same with other larger places, such as the Vuylsteke Home, White Haven (Port Arthur), or the smaller T.J. Chambers House (Anahuac). It is not feasible to keep someone there permanently, and volunteers are becoming few and far between, so most times you must call ahead to tour.DSC04233

Le Maison Beausoleil (the House of Beautiful Sunshine) was built around 1810 in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana. It was donated by the descendants of the original owner, Joseph Broussard Dit Beausoleil, and transported via barge to its current site in Port Neches Park. The cabin/museum was restored and opened to the public in 1988 by Les Acadiens du Texas, a club promoting the rich culture and heritage of the Acadien (Cajun) people.

Loom @ La Maison BeausoleilThe first thing that sticks out amongst the many artifacts is the loom and spinning wheel. Other items of interest were the musical instruments, miniature replica houses, and the old family Bible.DSC04208

Overall, Les Acadiens du Texas does a good job of promoting their heritage with this museum. I just hope that it will be open more regularly on weekends for all to enjoy.

DSC04222This is the touring information, but I would definitely call ahead to confirm anyhow: Le Maison Beausoleil is open Saturday and Sunday from 1–5pm. Other times can be arranged for bus tours and special occasions by calling 409-722-3014, 409—722-5650, 409-729-0341, or 409-832-6733. There is no admission charge.

Rediscovering Anahuac / Wallisville

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If you’re like me, Anahuac is an exit sign off the I-10, which you pass as you go to and from Houston. Yes, you may notice a few old buildings lined up next to the post office, and if you’re really observant, you may see the old church that sits in the background amongst the many old oaks along the streets. A thought might enter your mind to visit this place one day and find out what these old buildings are and why they were built in the first place. But, if you’re like me, your life will get in the way, and you will forget—until your next trip to Houston.

Well, let’s flashback to last year. I acquired a job in Anahuac itself and my travels took me much farther than Exit 813 by the McDonalds. I found out that Anahuac is actually about seven miles south of the Interstate. So every other week, I travelled to this city, oblivious to its rich historic past.

One day, I made a wrong turn and ended up near the Chambers County courthouse. An odd old house caught my eye. It was two-story dwelling with nice porches and a very interesting window. I immediately stopped and felt compelled to investigate.

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The house had belonged to a certain Thomas Jefferson Chambers, a lawyer, land speculator, and namesake for Chambers County.

Fast-forward to a few weeks ago when I took a trip to Anahuac to spend the day getting to know its sites and places of interest. And what a day it was. I found out that the Chambers County Historical Commission has a museum located across the street from the Chambers House. It is filled with photos and memorabilia of early families, landowners, and the history-makers of the past few centuries. It’s interesting to note that most of these people’s names are familiar to us from roads, bayous, and such, but most of us are unaware of the historical impact they’ve made. I guess that’s true for wherever you live.

Another plus to visiting this museum was how insightful and knowledgeable the docent was in explaining each photo and artifact. This in itself makes the visit worthwhile.

After spending time at the museum, we were lucky enough to have the Chambers House opened up for us to tour. This house, although small, was intriguing to me. From the large porches and spiral stairwell to the Texas Lone-Star window, I could see myself living there. I also enjoyed the period furnishings in the house, which were all decorated for Christmas to boot. DSC03912

Our next stop was Fort Anahuac. Sadly, nothing is left of the fort, but there are markers explaining the history. (Note: Fort Anahuac was the site of the first armed confrontation between the Anglo-Texan and Mexican troops in June of 1830.) The bluff that the fort sat on was also the site for those immigrating to what was then Mexico. As an aside, the immigrants of the time were required to pay taxes upon arrival!

Before our final stop, I took a back road and discovered an old cemetery, along with a row of oaks, which had been watching over the area for multiple centuries. It was just a beautiful sight to see, particularly since they were decorated with Spanish moss, which was hanging from their branches.

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Near the Wallisville Heritage Park (you remember those old buildings and the post office on the highway?), we came across a house that I never knew existed. It is simply a wonderful structure—unfortunately it is private, and we were not able to tour. After doing some research and asking the docent at the Wallisville Heritage Museum, I found out that the house is the Archie and Effie Middleton House circa 1906. Their son, John Middleton, one of the founders of Heritage Park, lives there. DSC03953

Finally, after having passed it multiple times over the years, we arrived at the Wallisville Heritage Park. This private nonprofit organization was founded in 1979 by John Middleton and some others who were interested in saving the Wallisville town site. A few buildings were saved, moved to their current site (on the Interstate) and restored. One treasure is the old Wallisville schoolhouse circa 1869.

Just like the Chambers County Historical Commission Museum, there are a lot of interesting artifacts and tons of old photos. It is a memorial to a town that was nearly forgotten, as many are in our history. But thanks to John Middleton and those concerned citizens who took it upon themselves to save our history, these artifacts have been preserved.

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As our tour of Anahuac/Wallisville’s interesting and historic sites came to a close, I felt certain I would be back again. There is much more to see. I guess I’ll need to call Houston next time and tell them I’ll be a little late.