Imagine a time before the internet, electricity and running water. Sometimes it’s hard to picture what life was like long ago. You can see first hand what it was like to survive back in the day with an inside look at historic homes around the Houston area. See things like architecture style, vintage appliances, furniture and personal items you rarely ever see anymore. Load up the family and head out for a mini history lesson near you.
The Marguerite Rogers House Museum
The beautiful architecture is like none other. Built in 1909, this Victorian style Historic home in Alvin is complete with a library and outhouse. The Marguerite Rogers House Museum is open for tours by appointment only. The guided tour shows the house and ground with commentary on the antique furnishings in the house. Many things have been left untouched for generations. The cottage was crafted over an eight year period by a Civil War veteran to show his skills in Victorian construction.
McFaddin-Ward House Museum
From an extravagant china collection to beautiful Tiffany chandeliers, the McFaddin-Ward House Museum in Beaumont is full of items both large and small from long ago. The 1906 Beaux-Arts Colonial style historic home has three lavishly furnished floors that reflect the lifestyle of the prominent family who lived in the house for 75 years. There is also a self-guided tour of the Carriage House available for all. Guided tours are available Tuesday - Saturday for $5 with free admission on Sundays.
The Abner Jackson Plantation Site
The Abner Jackson Plantation Site in Lake Jackson is open the first Saturday of each month for tours. Visit the historic archaeological site that shows the true history of sugar plantations in Brazoria County. The site was destroyed by the same hurricane that devastated Galveston in 1900, and later rebuilt. When visiting the homestead, you can see the sugar making process of the 1840's and how convict labor replaced slave labor during that time.
(Bonus: We always recommend making a stop by the Stephen F Austin Statue along 288 in Angleton on your way to Lake Jackson. There’s a visitor center with picnic areas on the 10-acre park area.)
Patrick's Cabin
It’s known as the true “Birthplace of Texas.” Step back in time at Heritage Park, featuring a Centennial Marker and historical representation of “Patrick’s Cabin.” The recreated cabin is a where the Texas Cabinet drafted the initial treated documents securing Texas’ independence from Mexico following the Battle of San Jacinto. In 2017, the Centennial Marker originally placed at the home of George Moffit Patrick was moved to Heritage Park, in front of Patrick’s Cabin. Throughout this area of Deer Park, visitors can peek inside historical cabinets that are filled with historical documents, photos and items that shed light on the history of the area.
Isaac Conroe Home
When in Conroe, you have the opportunity to follow in the city’s founder’s footsteps. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find the Isaac Conroe Home, built in 1885 by the town’s namesake. (Conroe was established after the Civil War when a retired Illinois Cavalry captain came to Texas hoping to make his mark in the lumber industry.) Wandering the historic home’s hallways teaches you about the building’s early years as the town’s post office and courthouse. This Texas historical landmark transports you to the past with restored interiors and period furnishings.
Love to explore history in your area? Learn about the Battle of San Jacinto, maritime commerce, the oil boom of the 1900's and much more at historical sites all over the area. We’ve got a complete guide here.