Tyler Landmark Register
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l. MARVIN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Built in 1890
300 W. Erwin St.
National Register of Historic Places
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
The Marvin United Methodist congregation can trace its origins to the first generation of Tyler. As early as 1848, the Methodists had formed their own church, the Methodist Episcopal Church South at Tyler. In 1891, the name Marvin Methodist was adopted in honor of Bishop Enoch Mather Marvin, a Confederate Army chaplain who had visited Tyler after the Civil War. The cornerstone for this gothic Revival structure was laid in 1890 and was a monumental project for its time. Constructed with elaborate brickwork, limestone trim, steeple and exquisite stained glass windows in the sanctuary, Marvin Methodist Church was known locally as the “Cathedral of the West”.
2. SAINT JAMES CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Built in 1891
408 N. Border Avenue
St. James C.M.E. is a significant monument to those pioneer members who established this church in 1891. As the oldest of church buildings for blacks in Tyler and Smith County, St. James C.M.E. has served as a major religious center as well as tending to the needs of the community. In answering the need for a community facility to accommodate large audiences, St. James was the site for many social and educational events. For many years, school commencement exercises, school plays, cultural presentations and social gatherings were held in the church. A new sanctuary was added in 1982 and the original building, an excellent example of American Georgian architecture, is currently used as a Sunday School facility and fellowship hall.
3. RAMSOUR HOUSE
Built circa 1862
504 E. Charnwood Street
National Register of Historic Places
Early pioneer Andrew Hosea Ramsour operated the first flour and grist mill in Tyler. He acquired land in 1861 on which he built a home for his wife and six children. The original house was of the “dog trot” style, with kitchen and bedrooms separated by an open hall. The foundation was constructed from tree trunks cut from the immediate vicinity and the entire structure was built with very few nails. Two fireplaces remain as well as five original doors that show hand hewn marks. With additions and remodeling over the years, the house now has a classic revival appearance. The distinctive iron fence surrounding this house is one of Tyler’s more recognizable landmarks.
4. TYLER MUNICIPAL ROSE GARDEN
Established in 1952
420 Rose Park Drive
Tyler’s most famous landmark is the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden. Twenty-one acres, hosting over 450 varieties of roses, are the focal point of the city known as “The Rose Capital of America”. Among the pathways are numerous ornamental fountains and fixtures. Officially established in 1952, the Rose Garden was the result of 30 years of effort to place the “Tyler Rose” into national prominence. In 1953, Rose Festival activities began taking place in the floral setting of the gardens. The Tyler Rose Garden has been designated as one of the 24 National Test Gardens in the United States to which over 100 new patented roses are introduced and tested annually.
5. BONNER-WHITAKER-McCCLENDON HOUSE
Built in 1878
806 W. Houston Street
National Register of Historic Places
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
Built for Harrison and Martha Bonner (Mattie), this home was remarkably self-sufficient with its own gasification power plant. The original grounds encompassed more than two hundred acres, which included a grass tennis court on the south lawn. In 1907, the home was bought by Mattie’s sister, Annie Bonner, and her husband, S.S. McClendon. The home remained in the McClendon family until 1981, when the property was deeded to the Bonner-Whitaker-McClendon House Society. Since then, extensive renovation has been undertaken on the Eastlake Bracketed Victorian structure and surrounding lawn. The house is open to the public for tours and social and civic functions. It is the birthplace of Washington news correspondent Sarah McClendon.
6. BERGFELD PARK & AMPHITHEATRE
Established in 1913
1510 S. College Avenue
South Broadway from 2nd to 4th Street
Mr. Rudolph Bergfeld, a prominent Tyler businessman, owned the land in 1882. In 1909, he donated the land to the City of Tyler, but the site was not developed until 1913. In giving the land, Mr. Bergfeld stipulated that it was to be used exclusively as a public park. In 1935, funds were donated by Gen. R.E.Woods, president of Sears, Roebuck & Company, for construction of an amphitheatre. The first two Rose Festival Coronations (1933 & ’34) were held in the park, while the festivals of 1936-39 took place in the General Woods Amphitheatre. Today the park is the center of enjoyment with play equipment, tennis courts, and picnic areas within the 8.32 acres of land.
7. CARNEGIE LIBRARY BUILDING
Built in 1904
125 S. College Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
Industrialist and philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie, granted funds to the City of Tyler for construction of a library. Completed in 1904, this building served as Tyler’s public library until 1980 and remains one of the few original Carnegie Libraries in Texas. Unique features include the domed ceiling in the meeting room and arched stage in the auditorium. In 1982, the building was renovated to accommodate the archives of the Smith County Historical Society, as well as a historical museum. Public exhibits are continually being collected for permanent and rotating displays. The auditorium is available for public use.
8. SWANN-MOORE-DENNARD BUILDING
Built in 1913
408 N. Broadway Avenue
Tyler’s only example of Chicago architecture, the Dennard Supply Company building, is a noteworthy example of an early 1900′s commercial brick building with detailed masonry work. It was built in 1913 by T.E. Swann for his furniture and undertaking business. Upon completion, the five story structure was the largest in Tyler with floor space of approximately 6,000 square feet per floor. In 1918, A.P. Moore purchased the property for his Moore Grocery Company, and in 1956 it became Dennard Supply. Today it remains in use as a commercial building. Today the building houses residential lofts, known as the Moore Grocery Lofts, a project completed with tax credits.
9. RAMEY-GRAINGER HOUSE
Built in 1903
605 S. Broadway Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
Mr. Thomas Brown Ramey established his jewelry business on the downtown square around 1875. He and his wife were well known for their civic activities and public commitment. In the 1890′s they purchased the property at 605 S. Broadway and completed construction of this home in 1903. The floor plan and architecture are prime examples of the Georgian style. The Rameys had two children and their son, Judge Thomas B. Ramey, became a prominent leader in the field of education. The home was occupied by the Ramey family until 1980 when the law firm of Grainger-Price bought and restored it to its original architectural splendor with adaptive re-use as a law office.
10. TYLER’S WOMAN’S BUILDING
Built in 1932
911 S. Broadway Avenue
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
National Register of Historic Places
In 1931, several of Tyler’s women’s organizations were in need of a permanent headquarters for entertaining and study purposes. The property at 911 S. Broadway was donated by Judge S. A. Lindsey with the stipulation that a building be constructed within one year. With great community support, money and materials were raised to complete the building in 1932. The three story Federal style building contains party and sitting rooms, a large kitchen, an auditorium, and on the top floor, apartment space. The auditorium was the site of high school graduation parties, piano recitals and Town Hall meetings. Throughout the years, the Tyler’s Woman’s Forum has continued to offer a gracious setting for civic and social events.
11. GOODMAN-LeGRAND HOUSE
Built in 1859
624 N. Broadway Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
One of Tyler’s most recognized landmarks is the Goodman-LeGrand home. In 1859, Captain Samuel Smith began construction of a one story, four room house. He sold his “Bonnie Castle” just before leaving for service in the Confederate Army. Later, in 1866, the home was sold to Dr. Samuel A. Goodman for his son, Dr. William J. Goodman. Through numerous enlargements and renovations, the present Classical Revival style was completed in 1926. The home remained in the Goodman family until the death of Mrs. Sally Goodman LeGrand in 1939. She bequeathed the home to the City of Tyler. In 1998-99, the City did extensive renovations and today it is open for public tours and as a meeting place, with original furnishings of the Goodman family remaining throughout the house.
12. JUDGE THE FLORIST
Built in 1931
1215 S. Broadway Avenue
Judge The Florist building is an attraction for Tylerites and visitors alike. Its history dates back to 1915 when the land was purchased by Mr. Eugene Watts Judge. There was a greenhouse on the property which had served as a small scale business of selling plants. The present structure was built in 1931 and was remodeled to accommodate a “growing” business. In 1958, Jane and Jack Greer, daughter and son-in-law of Eugene W. Judge, assumed responsibility and continued operations until 1977. Through two subsequent owners the building remained a floral business. In 2003, the building was purchased and is being restored as a private residence.
13. OAKWOOD CEMETERY
Established in 1846
400 N. Palace Avenue
West Oakwood at North Palace
Texas Historic Cemetery
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
Oakwood is the original cemetery utilized by the public of Tyler and Smith County and is the final resting place for many notable individuals including Governor Richard B. Hubbard, his mother, and second wife. Other Tyler pioneers interred are Major James P. Douglas, John G. Woldert, Rudolph Bergfeld, Samuel A. and William J. Goodman, Senator Horace Chilton, Judge Stephen Reaves and Judge Micajah H. Bonner, Mayor John H. Bonner and Texas House Speaker Thomas R. Bonner. A Confederate marker was erected in 1907 to the memory of the 231 Confederate soldiers buried in Oakwood. The oldest marker is that of Peter S. Ramsour and the most unusual inscription is for Katie Bannon, “Erected by Henry Reynolds – her affianced”.
14. PATTERSON HOUSE
Built before 1854
1311 W. Oakwood street
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
The original owner of this property was John Lollar, one of the men commissioned to select the town site for Tyler in 1845. Lollar acquired the land from Governor Henderson in 1846 under a land grant provision decree during the Texas Republic years. In 1854 he sold his home to Dr. James C. Moore and in 1871; it was bought by John M. Patterson and remained in the Patterson family until 1964. In 1882, the home was remodeled to its present Queen Anne style with additional modifications made by subsequent owners.
15. WOLDERT HOUSE
Built in 1906
604 Woldert Street
John G. Woldert, a German immigrant, came to Texas in 1839. He prospered in business and eventually moved to Tyler where he built a home on this site between 1854 and 1865. He had two daughters and five sons, one of whom was Alexander, the founder of Woldert Canning Company and Woldert Peanut Products. Alexander built this three story Classic Prairie style home during the years of 1898-1906. Interesting features include stained glass windows, steam heating through a boiler in the basement and a copper voice tube that connected the kitchen to Mr. Woldert’s room. In 1983, the home was sold to Charles Clark, who renovated the building for adaptive re-use as legal offices.
16. BARTON-VANDERPOOL HOUSE
Built circa 1930
440 S. Vine Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
The Barton-Vanderpool House is architecturally a Classic English Tudor. The exterior is a rustic masonry with herringbone bond brick and large volcanic or pumice stones set in the masonry. The second story is designed with a half timbered effect. The property was owned by the J. W. Bartons, who sold it to J.C. Hawkins in 1934. In 1945, it became the property of Milton R. Vanderpool, owner of the Ideal Baking Company of Tyler, who resided there until 1961. In recent years, the Vine Street area has seen activity in the adaptive re-use of older homes to commercial and office space.
17. McCORD-BLACKWELL HOUSE
Built circa 1884
1320 N. Bois D’Arc Avenue
This three story Queen Anne house in Tyler was the home of Felix J. and Gabriella McCord in 1895. Felix McCord served as State District Judge of the Seventh Judicial District Court from 1884 until 1896. In 1922, the home was sold to Mr. and Mrs. James T. Blackwell. Blackwell was an engineer with the Cotton Belt Railroad since 1904. In 1965, he sold the property and it was used as a multi-family rental dwelling until it was severely damaged by a fire in 1984. The home was restored in 1985.
18. LITTLEJOHN HOUSE
Built circa 1911
313 E. Charnwood Street
National Register of Historic Places
Samual W. and Anna Ray Beall Littlejohn built this house about 1911 so their four daughters could attend Tyler schools. Their father, manager of Chronister Lumber Company in Cherokee County, continued to commute to the mill by train. Originally, it was a frame house with a porch roof on two sides at the first story level. After a 1913 fire, the house was rebuilt and later, in 1930, remodeled to its present Southern Colonial style. In place of the old porch roof, two story columns were added and the exterior bricked. Many of the features still retained date back to the original house, among them are the pocket French style doors and curly pine woodwork collected and milled especially for this house from locally grown timber. The house remained in the Littlejohn family until the death of youngest daughter Mildred in 1983. Today the building houses a local law firm.
19. CATHERDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
Built in 1934
423 S. Broadway Avenue
The Spanish Colonial Revival style is most evident in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception that dominates the intersection of West Front Street and South Broadway. It was built in 1934 as the second home of the Tyler Catholic community that had outgrown its old frame building some blocks to the north. As part of the parish’s centennial celebration in 1978, interior modifications were made in keeping with liturgical changes. At the same time, the typical rounded arches, as seen at the front entrance and in the stained glass windows, were repeated in the newly constructed, compatible arcade. In 1987, when Tyler became the seat of a new twenty-six county diocese, the church was consecrated as a cathedral. The first bishop was Charles E. Herzig.
20. BONNER HOUSE
Built circa 1888
625 S. Vine Avenue
Originally a two story dwelling, this house was built in the Queen Anne Victorian era in the Classical Free Style about 1888 by attorney John T. Bonner on the former homestead of his father T. R. Bonner, Speaker of the Texas Legislature and community leader. In 1926, the upper story caught fire as the result of an electrical malfunction and the house was reconstructed as a single story structure. Among its many significant features are a traditional Queen Anne turret, curved glass windows, and stained glass windows. The house was restored in 1989.
21. CONNALLY-MUSSELMAN HOUSE
Built circa 1904
700 S. Broadway Avenue.
National Register of Historic Places
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
Walter Connally, a successful Tyler businessman, built this gracious house for his family between 1904 and 1908. He employed Dallas architects Hubbell and Green and is remembered for his meticulous recording of costs associated with this construction project. Solid horizontal lines of the house are reminiscent of the square, Italianate Style, but some of the “Texas Prairie” style is also evident. Contemporary status symbols – thick leaded windows, beveled glass, stained glass windows – are used throughout the house. The interior is greatly influenced by the Craftsman style with wide use of exposed oak and birch and a variety of styles in fireplace mantels. The house remained a Connally home for three generations until 1978, when it was purchased by the Musselman family.
22. TYLER LITTLE THEATRE
Opened in 1939
1014 W. Houston
When it opened in 1939, this art deco complex designed by Shirley Simons became the new home of the Tyler Little Theatre. It was built with funds from private donations, the City of Tyler, and the Works Progress Administration. Ray Woodney Parks designed the interior and landscape while architect Sam Brown, Jr. designed the gardens. Unable to continue its productions in wartime, the theatre closed. The Congregation Ahavath Achim purchased the complex in 1943, converting it into a synagogue after some modification that included a new staircase and kitchen. They remained in the building until 1984, when it was sold to Bethel Church. After a short time, this community church outgrew its space and sold the property. In 1989, the fiftieth anniversary of its opening, the Tyler Little Theatre building once again became the hub for artistic expression and interaction as the Midtown Arts Centre. Currently, the building houses a local church.
23. FLORENCE HOUSE
Built in 1911
700 N. Moore Avenue
Architect J. H. Bothwell built this Georgian style residence in 1911 for Edward Everett Florence and Blanche Bailiff Florence. It was a seven room cottage with front and rear galleries, gable roof and brick chimneys. Later the property was sold to the Rev. E. E. Cleveland, Jr. and Martha Josephine Cleveland and served as a prayer sanctuary until the owners decided to leave Tyler. In 1977, the Tyler Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority purchased the house to serve as sorority headquarters.
24. BETHLEHAM FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
Established in 1866
1121 W. Lollar Street
The church at the corner of Lollar Street and Ross Avenue is the home of a faith community that was formed in 1866 as the First Baptist Church (colored) after its members had been transferred by the pastor and officials of the First Baptist Church (white). The community first worshipped in the basement of the Smith County Courthouse. As it grew over the years, it moved several times. In 1891, a new church was built on West Front Street, the first brick church in Texas to be built by African-Americans. Under the leadership of the Rev. M. T. Waters, the present site was purchased in 1928 and the community sold its West Front Street property, where the last service was held in February, 1931. After the community moved to its new permanent church at the present location in 1933, this edifice continued to serve them until 1985, when a new annex was added.
25. 1881 SMITH COUNTY JAIL
(a.k.a. LEWIS HOTEL)
Built in 1880-1881
309 E. Erwin Street
National Register of Historic Places
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
Constructed in 1880-81 as the third Smith County jail, this structure was the first public building erected in the county after the Civil War. It is an example of Second Empire and Italianate style architecture. It served as a jail until 1916, when it was sold to Jefferson Y. Lewis, a former jailer who renovated the building and converted it into a hotel. Major modifications were made in 1933 as a result of the housing shortage that accompanied the discovery of the East Texas oil field. Although Lewis died in the 1950’s, members of his family continued operating the hotel. The restoration of the building began when Historic Tyler, Inc. purchased the property in 1986 and removed the 1933 front and stabilized the building. In 1992, Randal Gilbert restored the property to its present appearance and converted it to law offices.
26. GARY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Built in 1908
730 S. Chilton Avenue
Historical Subject Marker
Gary Elementary School was Tyler’s fourth elementary school. It was built in 1908, following the construction of the other three elementary schools in the city: Marsh (1889), Douglas (1902), and Bonner (1904), the last of these was an historic landmark. Because the original building was constructed of white stone, considered very modern at the time, the St. Louis architect claimed that the white walls made lighting fixtures unnecessary. In 1924, the original building was replaced by what is now the west wing of Gary Elementary School. The new building contained eleven classrooms and an auditorium. A decade later, a cafeteria and two classrooms were added. Subsequent additions over the next forty years added classrooms, an auditorium and gymnasium. The school is the namesake of Franklin Newman Gary, a South Carolinian who came to the Tyler area in 1850. He practiced law here before joining the Confederate army and attaining the rank of Captain. Gary supported the public education movement and was a generous and public-spirited citizen. He died in 1886.
27. WOLDERT-SPENCE-HEATON MANOR
Built circa 1884
611 W. Woldert Street
John George Woldert married Alma Edilina Richter, both originally from Saxony, in 1850. They moved to East Texas in 1859 and raised a large family. Woldert purchased the residence that later became this stately home. It is likely that two small houses were located on this site, in the dog-trot style, and in early 1884 consolidated into one single story structure. Between 1910 and 1918, the house underwent a major remodeling that added a second story when granddaughter Alma Mary came here to live with her new husband, Robert Spence. He became Mayor of Tyler and they remained part of the city’s life for many years. After his death in 1965, the house became rental property and was eventually sold in the early 1980’s. The Queen Anne Victorian house had declined considerably by the time Patricia and Richard Heaton purchased it in 1992 and restored it as a bed and breakfast.
28. BIRDSONG HOUSE
Built in 1931
518 W. Mockingbird Lane
National Register of Historic Places
Fred and Mae Birdsong came to their new house on Mockingbird Lane in 1931 with three daughters. Mrs. Birdsong knew much about beauty. She was a charter member of the Rose City Garden Club, wrote a book about wildflowers, and created a beautiful garden of camellias and azaleas where tea parties were popular. In 1957, the family remodeled the house, enclosing a side porch, eliminating grillwork on the front porch and adding a bathroom. After Mr. Birdsong’s death the house was sold to Dr. J. Paxton Hart and Jean E. Hart, who resided there from the 1970’s until 1991. The home remains a private residence.
29. THE B.W. ROWLAND-LIEBREICH BUILDING
Built in 1888
100 and 104 W. Erwin Street
The B.W. Rowland-Liebreich Building’s original structure was built in 1888. Commonly referred to now as “Rick’s on the Square”, the building is located on the original site of the El Ranch Saloon. The site is noted for a regionally famous shooting during the reconstruction era involving local citizens and law officials. The portion of the building now located at 100 W. Erwin was the home of the East Texas Conservatory of Music, established by Ms. Estelle Burns. Ms. Burns, nationally recognized for teaching “voice culture” was recognized in New York City as the leader of the Vocal Department of the National Academy of Music Art. Through adaptive re-use, the current owner, Rick Eltife, has restored the structure to its original condition and operates a restaurant and club in the structure.
30. THE MORRELL-PINKERTON HOME
Built in 1863
415 E. Charnwood
National Register of Historic Places
The Morrell-Pinkerton Home was built by D. B. and Laura Morrell in 1863. The structure is representative of the American Victorian building boom of the late 1800s. It embodies characteristics of a simple Queen Anne style, including asymmetrical porches, high pitched gables, and fish scale shingles, which were typical of East Texas homes during the mid to late 1800’s. Among the more than 10 owners over its 133 year lifetime were such prominent leaders as Judge S. A. Lindsey and the Gus Pinkerton family. The E. Littlejohn family rented this home while awaiting the building of their larger residence further up Charnwood. The house has remained in remarkably unchanged and original condition.
31. WILLETT-BRYANT HOME
Built in 1932
621 S. Fannin
National Register of Historic Homes
The Willett-Bryant House is a wood frame (clapboard) structure that is categorized as Early Classical Revival. It utilizes elements from the Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival periods with the columns supporting the full facade porch, engraved pilasters, and a five panel wood and glass door being dominant features. The home was built by Bob Collins for Mrs. Willett in 1932 when building in most parts of the country was limited by the Great Depression. Mr. & Mrs. L. E. Bryant owned the home from 1938 to 1993, when they moved to Tyler to establish Barqs Bottling Company. Mr. Bryant served as a Director of Peoples National Bank for 50 years. The current owners are descendants of the Bryants.
32. SALEH-WITT HOME
Built in 1931
1208 S. College Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
The Saleh-Witt House is a stucco structure which is categorized as Spanish Colonial Revival. The home was built by Hobart Plunkett for newlyweds George and Rose Saleh in 1931. The Saleh family was longtime candy merchants and tobacco merchants in Tyler who are still actively contributing to the community. It is said that this house was one of the first built in Tyler in the Spanish Colonial style, which was so popular in California. The home was owned by John and Willie Witt from 1950-1969. Mr. Witt is remembered by many as “Doc”, director of the municipal and school bands. Music lessons were often taught in the sunroom (study) of this home.
33. FAIR HOME
Built in 1927
1505 S. Robertson
The R.W. Fair house was originally built at 905 S. Chilton in 1927. The eclectic brick structure was the first home built by R. W. Fair at this location. The Fair’s early family life was spent in this home when their sons Wilton and James were young children. R. W. Fair was one of the leading citizens of Tyler and a primary force in the development of the city in this century. In 1937, in order to build a larger residence, the house was sold and moved six blocks away to 1505 S. Robertson, where it is presently located.
34. ARRATT-ODD FELLOWS BUILDING
Built in 1907
220 (1/2) W. Erwin
The Arratt-Odd Fellows Building is a wood frame and brick structure which is categorized as Romanesque with arched windows. The structure was built by Judge T. Brown Ramey in 1907. Most of the materials used in the construction are from buildings torn down in Tyler, some of these buildings dating back to the 1880’s. The windows are from the Methodist Church that was located on this site and are over 100 years old. The prominence of this is seen on the top floor where only minor changes have been made during 90 years of existence. The Odd Fellows purchased this building in January, 1912, from Judge Ramey for $16,000. Many businesses and organizations have occupied the ground floor.
35. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
Built in 1911
301 W. Ferguson
Recorded Texas Register of Historic Places
The congregation began as the first church meeting in Tyler on April 8, 1848, with eight original members. As Tyler was a village of a few hundred souls all living within the vicinity of the town square, the Baptist Church, which met in the log cabin courthouse, called its members to the service by blowing a ram’s horn. In 1908, the congregation decided to construct a larger church. It was under construction from 1911 until 1913, at which time the church held the dedication. This structure is Classical Revival style featuring four large brick and plaster columns with Palladian pediment above. The church auditorium was under construction from October, 1911, until its completion in March, 1913. It was updated in 1937, 1973, and 1990. The exterior and interior of the buildings are basically unchanged in form and function from their original purpose.
36. MATHIS-ALBERTSON HOME
Built in 1888
823 S. Palace Avenue
The Mathis-Albertson Home is a wood frame home which was built by J. M. Mathis in 1888. A carpenter/builder by trade, Mr. Mathis worked on such well-known homes and buildings as Marvin Methodist Church and the Goodman Home. In 1931, the home became the residence of his daughter and son-in-law, Hattie Earle and Otto James Albertson. Otto Albertson was Chairman of the Smith County Road Commission, a member of Tyler City Commission (now known as the City Council), and a member of the Administrative Board of Marvin Methodist Church for over 60 years. He owned a business, E. Albertson & Sons, on the downtown square. His father, Elif Albertson, owned the first Opera House in Tyler. The Albertson’s daughter, Dorothy Earle Albertson, lived in the house until 1996. The home is an excellent example of Queen Anne architectural style with its asymmetrical designs, fish scale shingle siding, and porches decorated with fancy “gingerbread” posts and balusters.
37. LINDSEY-OWENS HOME
Built in 1926
902 S. College Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
The Lindsey-Owens Home was built in 1926 as a classic American “cottage” style house with the entrance being typical of the Greek Revival Architecture used during the 1920’s to enhance the home’s appearance. Judge Sam A. Lindsey purchased the entire block of land in 1914, building this house for his two sisters-in-law in the 1920’s and donating the northeast portion of the block for the Tyler Woman’s Building in 1931. Mr. and Mrs. (C. B.) Jack Owens, for whom Owentown was named, were owners of the home from 1944-1960. This home sits in the heart of the Azalea District, a site from which many of the gardens can be viewed. The house and surrounding area also feature historically significant WPA drainage projects.
38. POLLARD HOME
Built in 1935
801 Troup Highway
National Register of Historic Places
Texas State Senator Thomas G. and Edna Pollard built the two-story brick home in 1935. Architect Shirley Simons, Sr. designed the house in the Georgian style and gave it his signature round window above the front door. Simons also added stars above the front door and over the drawing room mantel, which indicated that it was the home of a State Senator. State Senator Pollard initiated laws during the oil boom which still regulate and control the oil industry in East Texas. Edna Pollard wrote and published a book about his life entitled “The Man from Edom”. Landscape architect Maurice Shamburger, early pioneer in the use of azaleas in Tyler, designed the formal gardens which have been recognized by the Smithsonian Institute.
39. WITHERUP HOME
Built in 1932
212 West Dobbs Street
National Register of Historic Places
Marian L. Witherup built the masonry structure in 1932. Architecturally, it is a combination of English Country with English Tudor influence. Local Tyler architect Shirley Simons, Sr., used rough timbers among the brick to give the two story structure its unique Elizabethan Revival style. The house sits on the property, which was originally owned by Judge Lindsey, a portion of the property was donated for the use of the Woman’s Building. Running through the property is the historically significant WPA drainage project, masonry walls, a stone-lined well, and beautiful azalea gardens. It sits in the heart of the Azalea District.
40. BOREN HOME
Built in 1908
806 S. Broadway Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
This Craftman style Bungalow was built in 1908. John Parker and Walter Connally remodeled an older home in celebration of the marriage of Mr. Parker’s daughter, Bettie, to Mr. Connally’s nephew, Oswald Mac Boren. Mrs. Gretta Brokaw Connally and Oswald Boren’s mother, Bertha Brokaw Boren, were sisters. Mr. Boren was in the abstract business and during the East Texas oil boom he became very successful, at which time he built a much larger brick home at 720 S. Broadway. In 1934, Louise, their only daughter, became the second Tyler Rose Queen and the first Tyler native to reign over the Tyler Rose Festival. It was here that the first Queen’s Tea was held.
41. LINDSEY HOME
Built in 1895
416 East Charnwood
National Register of Historic Places
This modest Queen Anne wood frame home was built in 1895. The house was the first home of Judge Samuel A. Lindsey, a very prominent Tyler citizen. He was a teacher, lawyer, and catalyst for the birth of Gulf States Telephone Company. Judge Lindsey served one term in the Texas legislature, was a Smith County Judge, and served as chairman of Peoples Bank. He owned the land where the Woman’s Building was constructed and donated that land for its construction. Therese Lindsey, his wife, was a poet and instrumental in establishing the Poetry Society of Texas.
42. THE U.S. POST OFFICE AND COURTHOUSE
The WILLIAM M. STEGER FEDERAL BUILDING AND U.S. COURTHOUSE
Built in 1933
211 W. Ferguson
National Register of Historic Places
This masonry, brick, granite, and limestone structure was constructed in 1933 in the Classical Revival style. The Federal Building was dedicated on August 4, 1934, as both the U. S. Post Office and Courthouse. The Federal Building/United States Post Office/Courthouse in Tyler, Texas, is significant as a symbol of the Federal presence in Tyler. The passage of the Public Buildings Act of 1926 precipitated a period of building construction that was unprecedented in the United States. Shirley Simons, Sr., a local architect, designed the Federal Building in Tyler. Many of the Federal buildings of this period exhibit streamlined, almost austere finishes and features, as evidenced in the streamlined Classical Revival design of the Federal Building.
43. JAMES HOME
Built in 1940
322 West Fifth Street
National Register of Historic Places
Built by Louis and Clara James in 1940, Mrs. James was proud of the fact that she designed the home. Mr. James was an oil and gas attorney who was active in the Smith County Bar Association. The house is a masonry, two story, Classical Revival style structure with Greek Revival influences. The front entry, which faces Fifth Street, is dominated by the portico that is supported by four classic columns. The paneled door with the elliptical fan and sidelights are representative of the details in the grand homes being built in the Azalea District during this period.
44. SMITH-BUTLER HOUSE
Built in 1890
419 W. Houston St.
National Register of Historic Places
Rev. Thomas P. Smith built this Queen Anne style home in 1890. He was the son of Dr. L. W. Smith, a noted physician serving as a surgeon in the Confederate Army in Tyler. Rev. Smith married Mary Bell Long, the daughter of Captain Richard B. Long who served in the Texas Infantry of the Confederate Army. Rev. Smith was a prominent minister of the Methodist Church. He and his wife had no children of their own but reared several orphan children, giving them the advantages of a Christian upbringing and education in their home. Rev. Smith died in Marshall, Texas, on February 14, 1900. Mrs. Smith lived in the house until 1904, when she sold it to Judge Roy Butler. Judge Butler and his wife reared their two daughters in the house.
45. CHILDERS HOUSE
Built in 1929
625 W. Dobbs St.
National Register of Historic Places
Only four owners have lived in this house built in 1929. Albert Childers built the house for $6,000 as a wedding present for his wife, Lucille. She resided in the home for 66 years until she sold it in 1995. It sold again in 1999. The house has been described as one of the best examples of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture found outside the state of California.
46. FITZGERALD HOUSE
Built in 1898
815 S. Broadway Ave.
National Register of Historic Places
The Fitzgerald House was occupied by three generations of the same family for nearly a century. It was originally constructed in 1898 for the family of Henry B. Marsh. After living in the house for a few years, the Marsh family sold the house to Mr. Marsh’s law partner, Judge J. W. Fitzgerald and his wife, Mary. In 1999, the Fitzgerald’s granddaughter sold it to Robert Wangner, a developer in Tyler. The home was in great disrepair, but Mr. & Mrs. Wangner restored the property over a two year period, incorporating much of the Fitzgerald memorabilia. The house contains three offices, including the headquarters for Historic Tyler, Inc.
47. JAMES S. HOGG MIDDLE SCHOOL
Built in 1929
920 S. Broadway
National Register of Historic Places
James S. Hogg Middle School was designed by Bryan and Sharp Architects of Dallas, Texas, and opened as James S. Hogg Junior High School in September, 1930. Hogg Middle School is located in Tyler’s Azalea District on approximately eight acres of land and is an example of the classical architecture used for schools during this time period. Hogg Middle School was named for James Stephen Hogg, the nineteenth governor and first native governor of Texas. He was a firm supporter of public education. Mr. Hogg was born in Rusk, Texas, on March 24, 1851. He moved to Tyler in 1882, serving as District Attorney, and in 1886 became the Attorney General of Texas. In 1890, he ran for governor and won, and was re-elected in 1892. After his terms in office ended in 1895, he moved to Austin, where he died in 1906. Hogg Middle School is currently a prominent middle school in the Tyler Independent School District and offers an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program.
48. CAMPBELL-RICHARDSON HOUSE
Built in 1928
922 S. College Ave.
National Register of Historic Places
This Tudor Revival-style home was built in 1928 by Allen Campbell, a prominent Tyler contractor. The Campbell family resided in the home for 22 years. Will Mann Richardson, a prominent Tyler attorney, purchased the home in 1950. It remained in the Richardson family for 53 years until in 2003. Running through the property is the historically significant WPA drainage project, masonry walls, a stone-lined well, and beautiful azalea gardens. It sits in the heart of the Azalea District.
49. VIRGINIA & R.K. BONNER HOUSE
Built in 1902
826 S. Robertson
National Register of Historic Places
This modified L-Plan home, built in 1902, has a square or rectangular central mass with projecting front and side wings that distinguish it from the simpler L-Plan. A hipped roof covers the primary structure and heightens the low, one story profile. The Bonner House displays classical Revival Style elements in the form of porch posts and wood trim, and is among more than 80 examples of this plan type in Tyler.
50. ROY G. ROBERTSON FARMHOUSE
Built in 1894
204 Lindsey Lane
National Register of Historic Places
This Prairie Style, wood frame house was built in 1894. In the early 1890’s, John and Sarah Robertson conveyed 14 acres of their cotton farm to their son, Roy G. Robertson. Shortly thereafter, Roy secured a mortgage of $1,000.00 from East Texas Loan & Savings Association of Tyler to build the farmhouse. The original farmhouse was architecturally a “box house”, meaning the frame of the house was constructed out of solid sheets of pine. The recessed front door frame and window frames throughout the front of the house are indicative of the old “solid box” houses.
51. ULMER HOUSE
Built in 1934
1608 S. Chilton Ave.
National Register of Historic Places
The interior of the modified Georgian home has a contemporary look, featuring strong solid colors, tile and wood floors. Other features include a carved oak fireplace mantle, crown moldings in all of the rooms, and two pairs of 18th century French doors. The house was built in 1934 and was sold a year later to Dr. James G. Ulmer, minister of the First Christian Church at Broadway Avenue and Front Street. He was also executive manager of East Texas Broadcasting Co. and taught at Tyler Commercial College. The Ulmers sold the house to Rudolph and Elaine Tastch in 1967. Mr.Tastch was minister of the Ridgeway Christian Church near the TJC campus. Mrs. Tastch was the first dyslexia teacher in Tyler and taught reading to children in the breakfast room. Only four families have lived in this home.
52. HANSON-COOPER HOUSE
Built in 1885
412 E. Charnwood
The Tudor Revival style home is one of twelve revival style two-story duplexes within the Charnwood Historic District that has the character of a single family residence on the large lot known as 416 Charnwood. Mrs. Hanson lived in the house for many years. In 1930, Mrs. Hanson subdivided a portion of her property to the west to create a lot for her daughters. A house was designed by Shirley Simons, Sr. and constructed in 1931. The upper unit served as an income generator, serving as a temporary home to 25 different renters. One resident was Curtis Sanford, an oilman and founder and first underwriter of the Cotton Bowl Game. In 1964, the home was sold to Amanda Pearson Graham for $8,071.00. Upon her death in 1982, the property passed to her daughter, Elsie Pearson Hamilton, who lived in the home until 1984. The property sold to Allen and Kimberly Tennison, who lived in the house until July, 1994. In August, 1994, Fran and Curtis Cooper purchased the residence and added a new roof, new plumbing, three antique English stained glass windows, and new beams with sub floors in the bathrooms. They also refinished the original oak floors and removed plywood from six exterior windows and four exterior porch arches.
53. MCKINNEY HOUSE
Built in 1931
1503 South College Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
The two-story, red-tile roofed, brick veneer Mediterranean Revival style structure features an asymmetrical façade with offset projecting entry bay, 4/4 double hung wood sash windows, exterior chimney with decorative stack, and a loggia-like bank of five arched windows separated by narrow serpentine columns. The entry is recessed in the projecting bay detailed with an arched opening, serpentine columns, and glass and metal lanterns. The two-story brick veneer garage apartment at the rear of the property complements the house. The house was designed by Edward A. Nolan and built by H. W. McCord.
54. WHITE HOUSE
Built in 1929
116 Lindsey Lane
National Register of Historic Places
The Tudor Revival-style home, commonly known as The Castle, was designed by local architect, Shirley Simons, Sr. and built by Hugh White, a leading builder of his day. Some past owners of the home included a granddaughter of the builder and a grandson of the architect. The brick and stucco house features a turret with balcony, weathervane and chimney pots. The home is located in the Azalea District and was the site of many social events. The home has also been part of the Azalea Trail.
55. THOMAS JEFFERSON, SR. AND ANNIE MAE GIVENS HOUSE
Built in 1931
2209 N. Grand Street
Thomas Jefferson Givens, Sr. built this American Cottage style home during the oil boom for his wife and son, who wanted to be near Texas College, in the North Tyler area. Mrs. Givens provided housing for many young ladies attending the college, including her own granddaughter. The Givenses were considered pillars of the community. Reverend Givens, who died in 1961, shared the Gospel with the congregation of his Christian Methodist Episcopal church. He was also a shoe cobbler and accomplished green thumb, growing fruit-bearing trees for extra food. Mrs. Givens, who lived until 1985, operated a day care center, a dance studio and a type of boarding house for young female students from Texas College and Tyler Junior College. Four generations of the Givens family have lived in the home.
56. CITY PARK SPRING POND
Constructed in 1941
200 West Queen Avenue
The City Park was purchased from Mrs. Fannie Heffler on September 26, 1930, for $4,000.00. It is located on a 1.85 acre site and is one of the oldest parks in the city. A natural spring is located within the park. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) built a wading pond of natural iron ore rock to contain the fresh spring water. They constructed a small ledge for citizens to sit on as they cooled their feet in the natural spring water. The date etched into the cement of the pool is 1941, so it is assumed that was the construction date. In addition to the WPA iron or rockwork in the wading pond, picnic tables, benches, bridges, a sandbox, and a lined creek through the park were constructed. The City Park underwent a facelift in the late 1990’s with the installation of a new irrigation system, a covered pavilion, and new picnic tables.
The Spring Pond is historically significant to Tyler and the United States because it represents a period of our history when our nation was making every effort to put people back to work following the Great Depression. The WPA work within the City Park is a fine example of the many WPA projects within Tyler.
57. M.P. TIMMS HOUSE
Built in 1949-1950
704 W. Oakwood Street
The M. P. Timms House is owned by True Vine Baptist Church. The parsonage is one of the few remaining pastoral parsonages in the city owned by African Americans. When Rev. Moses P. Timms accepted the call to pastor the congregation in 1944, there were no housing accommodations available to him. He and his wife, Evelyn, lived with one of the deacons of the church. Church trustees commissioned architect/builder M. P. Kemp to design and build a seven room brick residence among the early shanties and shot gun houses built by descendants of former slaves. The Georgian architecture retains its original double hung sash windows and gable roof with a brick chimney.
58. M.P. TIMMS EDUCATIONAL BUILDING
Built in 1955
711 W. Oakwood
The M.P. Timms Educational Building is owned by True Vine Baptist Church. The two story educational building includes an office, a general assembly area and a downstairs prayer chapel that once remained opened 24 hours a day. This building houses some of the building’s original stained glass.
59. S.H. KRESS AND COMPANY
Built in 1946
116 W. Erwin Street
The S. H. Kress and Company building was built on the company’s 50th anniversary. The building has a pale yellow brick façade with off-white trim that was the “signature” storefront for Kress from its beginning to the mid 1930’s. Edward Sibbert, a well educated New York architect employed by the prestigious Kress chain, reverted to the original storefront circa 1940. As written in “America’s 5 & 10 Cent Stores, The Kress Legacy” by Bernice L. Thomas, Kress stopped building on Main Street around 1942. This store in Tyler is one of the last stores constructed in the downtown area. The building has been rehabbed and now houses offices and a Pilates studio.
60. ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SERVICE BUILDING – FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE ELLA REID PUBLIC LIBRARY AND THE TYLER NEGRO PUBLIC LIBRARY
Chartered in 1941
1400 W. Lollar Street
The first recorded beginnings of the Negro Public Library date back to the World War II era. In July, 1941, the Negro Public Library was chartered and located in the basement of Bethlehem Baptist Church. It was supported by donations of money, books, and furnishings, the majority of which were provided by white citizens. In the fall of 1949, the Library was moved to 1400 Lollar Street.
In 1952, the city officially established the Library Board as a city board. In November 1961, the Board requested the name be changed to the Ella Reid Public Library in honor of a church and community leader who was highly respected by Tyler’s African –American population. In 1968, the City closed the library because of decreased use as everyone was now able to use the Carnegie Public Library. Commissioners authorized a resolution that combined the boards and operations of the Ella Reid and Carnegie Public Libraries. On November 22, 1971, trustees for Gamma Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Sorority Tyler purchased the building.
61. J.C. MARTIN HALL LOCATED ON THE TEXAS COLLEGE CAMPUS
Built in 1924
2404 N. Grand Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
Martin Hall is named for Bishop Joseph C. Martin. Financed by loans and donations from the Christian Methodist Church (C.M.E) church and its membership, from Bishop Martin, and from alumni and members of Tyler’s African-American community, Martin Hall is a good local example of a Classical Revival influenced education building. It is the only surviving intact example of a 1920’s education building in the city. Martin Hall, an African-American institution, is a three-story red brick building erected from plans of an unknown source. Martin Hall originally housed a combination of classrooms, administrative and assembly space, and retains its original 1,000 seat auditorium. The auditorium contains a 1943 mural depicting events in the history of Texas College. Martin Hall currently houses the President’s Office, administrative offices, and the auditorium.
62. PRESIDENT’S HOUSE LOCATED ON THE TEXAS COLLEGE CAMPUS
Built in 1944
2404 N. Grand Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
The President’s House was built for D.R. Glass, the first president of Texas College for 30 years from 1931-1961. The two story brick colonial home housed the college president and his family as well as serving as a guest house to visiting dignitaries for many years. The house has been vacant since 2001 and is currently used for social events.
63. GUS F. TAYLOR GYMNASIUM LOCATED ON THE TEXAS COLLEGE CAMPUS
Built in 1940
2404 N. Grand Avenue
Gus F. Taylor Gymnasium was built for $30,000. The one story brick structure has hosted sporting events and yearly formals, along with elite speakers for the college and community. The facility was also utilized to house visiting intercollegiate athletic teams when dorm space wasn’t available. The gym is currently used for all physical education programs and intercollegiate competition in volleyball and basketball.
64. D.R. GLASS LIBRARY LOCATED ON THE TEXAS COLLEGE CAMPUS
Built in 1950
2404 N. Grand Avenue
National Register of Historic Places
The D.R. Glass Library built in 1950 is a two story brick structure that houses all of the library resources. The library is named for Dominion Robert Glass, the first president of Texas College. The present collection contains approximately 80,000 volumes, which include basic standard reference books, professional and technical literature, recreational reading materials, and current bound publications. The library also houses The Black Studies Collection that contains extensive material by and about the African-American experience. The Black Studies Collection is one of the largest collections in East Texas; this Collection serves the public schools and the general community.
65. BRADFORD HOUSE
Built in 1938
2015 South College Ave.
In 1934 a young doctor, Sidney Bradford and his wife, Goldie, traveled to Chicago to visit the World’s Fair that was know as “A Century of Progress”. While there they found the plans for their dream home. The British Colonial home, which featured all the latest technology, was sponsored by Marshall Fields Department Store and was used to showcase their furniture. Upon returning to Tyler, the couple began to construct their home, with the help of local architects, Gregory and Cates. Maurice Shamburger did the original landscape design. Mrs. Bradford, who was an avid gardener, continued to live in the home until shortly before her death in 1999. In 2000, Casey and Kelley Brownlow purchased the home and are diligently working together to improve the property.
66. CHILTON-TAYLOR HOUSE
Built in 1888
727 South Chilton Ave.
In 1888 Horace Chilton, the first native born Texas U.S. Senator, built the home on what was known then as Mary Street. Architecturally, the house has been described as Greek Revival, its large Corinthian columns surround the house and the porches are carved wood, topped with intricate metal trim. A cantilevered balcony stretches around three sides of the home and is one of the more striking features of the home. Horace Chilton’s family lived in the home until 1902. There were several different owners from 1902 until Gus Taylor purchased the home in 1910; the Taylor family lived in the home for 45 years. Gus Taylor, president of the newly formed Citizens National Bank, was a very active civic and business leader in the community. In January, 2005, John and Ellen Musselman purchased the property. Today, the home is used for their business, Southwest Operating Inc. and Atlantis Oil Company.
67. PLEASANT HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
Built in 1908
502 North Horace Avenue
In 1908, on the east side of Tyler, then known as Hickory Hill, located at the northwest corner of North Horace Avenue and East Oakwood Street, the Reverend Ed. King organize a congregation and started a church which became known as Pleasant Hill Missionary Church. The original construction of the church was a wood frame building with an octagonal shaped porch with Greek columns. The original bell that was used to call the congregation together in its early days is still a working bell and has been incorporated into the monument signage in front of the church. The original church still stands, however, the exterior of the building was bricked in 1991 and new buildings have been added on the site in order to provide for the congregation’s growing needs. The Pleasant Hill Missionary Church location is considered a landmark “place” due to the character, interest and value it has provided towards the heritage and cultural development of the local community.
The mission of Historic Tyler, Inc. is to promote the preservation and protection of historic structures and sites through education, involvement, and public and private investment.
