SUMMER 2012

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toHome Historic Sites in North CONTENTS Preservation News The Medallion Is 50! THC Magazine Now Eligible for its Own Medallion SUMMER 2012 By Andy Rhodes Texas Historical Commission FEATURES Managing Editor, The Medallion Commissioners: Matthew Kreisle, Chairman 4 Sustaining David A. Gravelle, Vice Chair 2009 Gilbert E. Peterson, Secretary Preservation Thomas E. Alexander Hidden environmental Earl Broussard Jr. features benefit Texas’ A. Mario Castillo Kirk Courson historic buildings. John W. Crain 1971 1975 Jon T. Hansen Lisa A. Hembry Steven L. Highlander THC OUTREACH Sheri S. Krause Tom Perini Volume 1, Issue 1 of The Medallion archives inspires a sense of Judy Richardson 6 Historic Houses is lost to history, but the first issue proud continuity. For five decades, Robert K. Shepard The THC’s Historic Sites in the Texas Historical Commission’s The Medallion has showcased the Nancy Steves in North Texas charm Daisy Sloan White archives is likely representative. Texans who have worked tirelessly heritage travelers. Commissioner Emeritus: T. R. Fehrenbach Dated November 1968, five years to promote worthy projects Executive Director: Mark Wolfe after the premiere issue, it boasts representing the state’s enduring Medallion Staff: a mimeographed look on thin cultural legacy. Heather McBride guacamole-colored paper. A subhead Department Head 10 Summer School in the title block announces “A 1975 Andy Rhodes THC’s Diversity Managing Editor Take a stroll through The Medallion’s archives monthly newsletter for chairmen of Barbara Putrino Interns expand across five decades (clockwise, from above). county historical survey committees.” Contributing Editor preservation education. Judy Jensen Preservation news in Texas has Senior Graphic Design Coordinator evolved in the past 50 years, with a strong focus on design and reporting ISSN 0890-7595 of information. A retrospective Vol. 50, No. III look through 50 years of Medallion www.thc.state.tx.us [email protected] On the cover: The entrance to the THC’s Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site in Denison (photo by Andy Rhodes).

1997 VISIT US ON THE WEB FAST FACTS www.thc.state.tx.us The THC’s preservation programs are significant economic Learn more about the real places telling the real stories of Texas. catalysts throughout the state. 1980 1978 www.texastimetravel.com Texas Heritage Trails Program The Texas Heritage Trails Program’s travel resource Total Direct Travel Spending* Heritage Traveler Spending* Jobs Created* www.texashistoricsites.com The THC’s 20 historic properties $63.4 $6.3 53,200 1986 http://seethesites.blogspot.com The agency’s historic sites blog Meet our Billion Billion *2011 Travel Facts Early new chairman Chairmen 1960s 1970s 1980s @ www.thc. 1959-1985 state.tx.us

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION www.thc.state.tx.us SUMMER 2012 TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION 2 3 Preservation Advice Preservation Advice

most effective ways Kline also points out the building’s opportunity. Plans for landmark designations For those interested in learning more Invisible Sustainability to reverse climate climate-responsive features were critical in the opulent Spanish placed on the site and about sustainability in preservation, change, conserve gaining the LEED rating due to a thorough Renaissance structure, federal funding through the recently Hidden Environmental Practices Benefit resources, improve understanding of the building’s inherent originally designed by the Save America’s issued Illustrated Guidelines on Texas’ Historic Structures human health, and strengths by the architectural team (San Boston architect Ralph Treasures program. Sustainability for Rehabilitating preserve natural Antonio-based Ford, Powell & Carson, and Adams Cram, included a The joint efforts of Historic Buildings. For example, ecosystems. Trivers Associates of St. Louis, Mo.). multi-story wing that was environmentalists and the booklet includes tips on By Bess Graham “Research shows For example, Kline notes the original never built. preservationists are installing photovoltaic panels, cool THC Architect that many building steel windows were encased with new Resurrecting this growing, not only on grand roof systems, HVAC ducting, and While sustainability has swept through rehabilitations actually perform better than interior storm windows to upgrade their 21,500-square-foot wing landmark buildings, but retrofitting wood and steel window the architectural community with much their similarly designed new counterparts performance, similar to modern double- as the new state-of-the- also more utilitarian systems. It is available for download fanfare, many of these same principles have when factors like demolition waste are pane glazing. Under frosted glass shades, art archive became buildings of recent vintage. at www.nps.gov/tps/standards/ quietly crept into Texas’ historic restoration taken into account,” says Elizabeth historic light fixtures were retrofitted essential to the $32 million Mission Verde Center at Cooper, sponsored rehabilitation/sustainability- and rehabilitation projects. In particular, Brummett, the THC’s state coordinator for with fluorescent bulbs. The overall office restoration project by the architectural team by the City of San Antonio, used a $1 million guidelines.pdf. two exemplary projects have received high project review. configuration maximizes natural light, at the Gensler firm. The combination of old federal energy conservation grant to enhance The THC’s Architecture Division marks, not only for painstaking preservation For example, Brummett cites the views, and ventilation. and new construction allowed the team to the former James Fenimore Cooper Middle also provides technical assistance and of public buildings, but also for meeting renewal of San Antonio’s downtown 1937 The building also hosts many other fully restore more historic space, such as School on the city’s West Side. The school design guidance for work on historic stringent sustainability goals in the process. post office, which began as a phased project green features with no visible impact on the reading room, which had previously has become a multipurpose education, properties. THC review is required Both projects—San Antonio’s 1937 in 2004 and is planned for completion public areas, including a large photovoltaic been used for storage. training, and research center for renewable for projects that make use of federal downtown post office and Houston’s 1926 this summer. Now known as the Hipolito array on the roof, solar hot-water heating, “I don’t remember there ever being and energy-efficient technologies. While historic preservation tax incentives, central library—received extensive reviews F. Garcia Federal Building and U.S. electric charging stations in the parking a clash between sustainability and retaining the school’s exterior identity in the involve federal funding or permits, or by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) Courthouse, this imposing 308,000-square- garage, condensate water recycling for preservation,” Brummett says. “That’s what neighborhood, highly efficient geo-exchange entail work to a building designated as in conformance with the Secretary of the foot Beaux-Arts landmark received full irrigating drought-tolerant plants, and a happens when architects are familiar with mechanical systems were buried below a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. review by THC staff. The review is required vegetated roof system at the base of the both philosophies.” ground, with a series of solar panels located or State Archeological Landmark. These standards outline the 10 principles under Section 106 of the National Historic existing light well. The project is currently on target to at the rear of the property to augment the Architectural reviewers can that safeguard the character-defining Preservation Act because the property is Another example of effective restoration receive a LEED Silver rating, due in part building’s electrical system. also advise on properties that do not features of historic buildings, encourage federally owned. and sustainability is in downtown Houston, to the intrinsic features of the building THC architects claim these projects currently have, but may be eligible material repair rather than replacement, The building was originally designed where the re-opening of the 1926 central and its location, including cork flooring, show that sustainability and preservation for, historical designation. This free and discourage irreversible changes. by San Antonio architect Ralph Haywood library, now called the Julia Ideson daylight, views, and re-creation of an not only exist together, but thrive from the resource is especially valuable during These projects also conformed to the LEED Cameron in association with Philadelphia Building, provided a unique architectural outdoor reading garden that had once been synthesis of both philosophical worlds. early planning stages of design. For (Leadership in Energy and Environmental architect Paul Philippe Cret under the a neglected back-of-house space. When new design augments the inherent more information, call 512.463.6094 The THC has been Design) rating system. This system auspices of the U.S. Treasury Department. environmental strengths of historic or email [email protected]. scores projects using measurable goals Conservators previously restored the involved with buildings, projects perform as well as newly for sustainable sites, water conservation, stunning 16-panel mural by noted artist this project constructed, energy-efficient buildings. Top photo: Hidden energy-saving elements energy conservation, materials selection Howard Cook. The $56 million project is on from the Advanced technical systems can be at the San Antonio federal building include and reuse, indoor environmental quality, track to receive a LEED Gold rating. beginning, retrofitted to allow the historic appearance original steel windows encased with new storm windows and (below) solar panels on and innovation. Credits in these areas lead “This project succeeded because the due to of buildings to take center stage, thus the roof. to rankings from Certified, Silver, Gold, and building was already green,” says Steve state becoming invisible from the highest level, Platinum. Kline, regional historic preservation officer public view. The National Park Service’s recently for the Greater Southwest Region of the “These outstanding revised sustainability guidelines offer a General Services Administration. projects and recent fresh challenge to the assumption that research prove what only new buildings meet preservationists have environmental standards. been saying for years— Ongoing scientific research that one of the best by the Preservation Green ways to save the planet Lab, sponsored by the is to recycle historic National Trust for Historic buildings,” says Stan Preservation, proves that Graves, director of the rehabilitating existing THC’s Architecture At right: San Antonio’s 1937 post office building maintains its historical buildings is one of the elements (above) while incorporating modern sustainable design. Division. H

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION www.thc.state.tx.us SUMMER 2012 TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION 4 5 Dwight joined his brothers Arthur and Edgar in Rayburn’s home in Bonham, nearly 30 miles the home, though the family “probably didn’t have southeast of Denison, is notably different than a very happy time here,” Gilliam said. David worked the Eisenhower Birthplace. Constructed 40 years long, hard hours, and Ida scrambled to keep up with later (1916), the house played a significant role in three young boys while cooking and cleaning. Their Rayburn’s personal and political life and captures the Kansas-based church did not have a congregation actual environment of his home in the context of his Northern Hospitality in Denison, so it was likely difficult for them to everyday life. Discover the Charming Historic Sites of North Texas establish friendships. According to site curator In the spring of 1892, the Anne Ruppert, the Sam family moved to Abilene, Kansas, Rayburn House Museum By Andy Rhodes, Managing Editor, The Medallion where David accepted a job at generally hosts two types of Belle Springs Creamery, managed visitors: people who know A 60-mile stretch of rolling North Texas countryside “These three historic sites tell interesting stories by his brother-in-law. However, it Mr. Sam’s legacy, and people has the distinction of housing three decidedly different of Texans who influenced national events. Stories of wouldn’t be the last time Dwight who want to learn more about federal politicians. A president, speaker of the house, their personal challenges inspire visitors to learn more set foot in Texas. In 1915, he was him. For those familiar with and senator are now honored at the homes they once about them and their Texas roots,” said Donna Williams, a newly commissioned Second Rayburn, site staff fill in the occupied: Eisenhower Birthplace, House director of the Texas Historical Commission’s (THC) Lieutenant in the Army, and his gaps by providing tidbits of Museum, and . Historic Sites Division. “The extensive preservation first post assignment was in San information about his personal Although these famous men—President Dwight D. work the THC recently completed at the Eisenhower Antonio at Fort Sam Houston. life. For others, Ruppert enjoys Eisenhower, Speaker Sam Rayburn, and Senator Sam Birthplace, the Sam Rayburn House, and the Sam Bell While there, he met 18-year-old introducing them to Rayburn’s Bell Maxey—took divergent paths to Washington, D.C., Maxey House ensures we can continue to protect and Mamie Geneva Doud; nine months later, extensive political career their experiences in Texas left an indelible mark on share these real places with current and future Texans.” they were married. and educating them their significant legacies. “It’s interesting that Texas about his significant Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site had such a significant impact accomplishments For heritage travelers in North Texas, the oppor- on his life—he entered the as the country’s tunity to stand in the room where Eisenhower world and met his future wife longest-serving Speaker entered the world is a major attraction. here,” Gilliam said. of the House. Opposite: The statue at Denison’s Eisenhower “This is where the story began for a man who She adds that the Eisenhower Birthplace. Above: The “It’s fun to let people know was vastly important in U.S. and international family’s presence in Denison was showcases Mr. Sam’s personal items. more about Mr. Sam and see history—his impact on the world will be felt largely forgotten until the early their expressions as they learn for a long, long time,” said Site Manager Robin 1940s. After “Ike” became a household name as a five- about all the different things he did throughout his Gilliam. “We have visitors who tell us they’ve star General in World War II, Denison residents fondly life,” Ruppert said. spent their lives fascinated by Ike, and they want recalled the quiet family with three young boys who For example, Ruppert notes many visitors’ to experience the starting point of the man who lived near the railroad tracks. eyebrows raise upon learning of Rayburn’s ascension won World War II.” “After the war, the citizens of Denison swelled to the powerful role of Speaker of the Texas House Gilliam adds that although the Eisenhowers’ with pride and chipped in $3,000 to buy the house at the young age of 29. Guests are also surprised to time in Texas was brief (three years), it where he was born,” Gilliam said, adding that the State learn of Rayburn’s 17 years as Speaker of the U.S. represents an intriguing slice of life in Denison of Texas later purchased the home during Eisenhower’s House of Representatives—where he served under and the family’s past. second presidential term in 1958. “Dwight came back eight presidents, from Woodrow Wilson to John F. Dwight’s parents, David and Ida, moved in 1946 for a victory parade, and he saw the home Kennedy—and the fact that he had 10 siblings. to Denison after a failed business venture in where he was born. He even met Sam Rayburn while Ruppert adds that the Rayburn House provides Hope, Kansas. David, who landed a job with he was here.” a sense of familiarity unavailable at most historical the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railway as house museums. Rayburn lived in the house from an engineer wiper (steam locomotive cleaner), Sam Rayburn House Museum 1916 until his death in 1961, and the furniture and rented a house near the railroad tracks for Eisenhower and Rayburn would eventually become decorations are similar to many Texas homes from $8 a month in early 1889. Nearly a year after colleagues at the Capitol in Washington, D.C. during the era. Rayburn also had modest tastes, so his moving into the furnished home, Ida was Eisenhower’s tenure as president. By most accounts, furnishings are more utilitarian than the elegant items attended by a local doctor as she gave birth they had a good working relationship, though featured in many house museums. to her third son, Dwight, in the southwest Rayburn’s influence is more closely associated with a “This site feels like a home you may have been in,” bedroom on October 14, 1890. different native Texan: Lyndon Johnson. Ruppert said. “In fact, many of our guests say, ‘This

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION www.thc.state.tx.us SUMMER 2012 TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION 6 7 totally reminds me of my grandma’s house!’ or ‘My Mary after his father died. Though the Maxeys never of the Maxeys’ original furniture while incorporating On the Road grandparents had one of these!’ People really develop had biological children of their own, the four-bedroom their own distinctive decorative style. While traveling across North Texas to the THC’s historic sites, a strong connection to this house.” home was regularly filled with relatives and guests. For example, Ammon notes Lala was interested consider visiting these regional heritage tourism attractions. Ruppert says visitors also connect with Mr. “This was always a very busy place, with social in slim and delicate materials that were much lighter Sam’s human nature when they see the chickens, gatherings, visitors, and constant activity—sometimes than the more ornate elements Mrs. Maxey preferred. Denison vegetable garden, and cars in the backyard. Although guests and family She adds that between the two families The Red River Railroad Rayburn’s restored Cadillac is housed in his garage would stay for and 99 years of accumulated items, there Museum (www. with an environmentally controlled interior, his months or even are nearly 10,000 artifacts in the home’s redriverrailmuseum.org, everyday vehicles, including a black pickup truck, are years,” said Site collection, which is one of the largest of 903.463.5289) features pockmarked with the dents of a distracted driver. Manager Kaitlin the THC’s 20 historic sites. vintage railroad equipment— “People are surprised to learn he wasn’t perfect— Ammon. “Mr. Maxey Since Maxey’s achievements including a caboose and gondola car—along with historic his cars were always beat up,” Ruppert said. “Here was a prominent occurred more than a century ago, artifacts and photos. This successful Main Street city also was this great, powerful figure, but he couldn’t drive man, and this most visitors to the home are unfamiliar offers an impressive collection of shops and restaurants in the worth a darn. It makes people feel a bit better when impressive home with his legacy. Many guests are historic downtown commercial district. Just down the road, they realize they drive just like Mr. Sam did.” was a proper impressed to learn that Maxey attended the Grayson County Frontier Village (903.463.2487) offers residence for West Point and served in the U.S.- an archive center and relocated buildings from the 1800s in a Sam Bell Maxey House someone of Mexico War and Civil War before park developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Forty miles east of Bonham, the Sam Bell Maxey his status.” becoming an esteemed politician. House in Paris sheds light on a federal politician during Maxey died in They also appreciate that his dedication Bonham a drastically different era of Texas history. Though 1895, and Long and to civic responsibility was a model for Visitors who wish to Maxey’s time in Washington, D.C. (1875–1887) was his wife Lala later his great-nephew Long, who was active delve deeper into the nearly 70 years before Rayburn’s and Eisenhower’s, inherited the home in the community and became president historical background his sense of civic duty and dedication to worthy causes after Marilda’s death of the local Red Cross. of Sam Rayburn was equally respected. in 1908. According “Other house museums have should visit the Maxey’s distinguished home, featuring a High to Ammon, the historic items, but they’re usually not recently renamed Sam Victorian Italianate exterior and Greek Revival interior, Longs’ residence original to the family. We’re fortunate Rayburn Museum was completed in 1868, with many of the materials in the house was that the Maxeys and Longs were in this (903.583.2455), which imported from New Orleans. Maxey and his wife significant because house for so long, and that they kept contains archives, Marilda lived in the house, along with their adopted they retained most almost everything they owned,” Ammon memorabilia, and photographs in a stately Neo-Classical daughter Dora. said. “We like to see how these items building. The 1960s Fannin County Courthouse anchors an In 1871, Maxey’s 2-year old great-nephew Sam Above: Paris’ elegant Sam Bell Maxey House was completed in 1868. positively impact our guests—it really helps get the active downtown square. Below, right: From left are Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower, Sam Rayburn, Bell Maxey Long moved into the home with his mother and Sam Bell Maxey. word out there about this special place.” Paris In with the Old For those interested in exploring Over the past two years, THC staff and local construction crews have been busy restoring many of the agency’s Sam Bell Maxey’s legacy to the historic sites. The three homes featured on these pages benefitted from structural upgrades, fresh coats of paint, end, his gravesite is in the historic, and new interpretive services. The following capsules detail the scope of their restoration projects. tree-laden Evergreen Cemetery. Downtown, the immaculately Eisenhower Birthplace Sam Rayburn House Sam Bell Maxey House preserved historic square of this The Eisenhower Birthplace was recently repainted, The home was closed for almost a year until its official The home was closed for restoration for most of last prestigious Main Street city restoring its exterior to pristine condition. Historic reopening in March 2012. Preservation activities year. The exterior preservation work included extensive surrounds an elaborately cascading Sites Division staff members are currently working on included the repair and repainting of the exterior repainting; repairs to framing, wood siding, doors, 1927 fountain, with bustling an Interpretive Master Plan to make the site even more of the historic house, garage, and tractor shed and and windows; stabilization of the pier-and-beam nearby businesses. Other popular attractions include the relevant and meaningful to the local community and the upgrade of heating/air conditioning equipment. foundation; roof replacement; and installation of a new Lamar County Historical Museum (www.lchsparistx. visitors. The planning process will address improved Historical accuracy was enhanced with the restoration central heating and air conditioning system. A new org, 903.785.0626), Paris Union Station Railroad Depot educational programs and exhibits. of the front and back porches. The museum’s visitor Interpretive Master Plan is currently underway that will (903.784.6964), and the cowboy hat-topped Eiffel Tower. www.visiteisenhowerbirthplace.com center was also improved. Planning for future identify additional improvements to help engage the 903.465.8908 interpretation improvements at the site will begin in community and area visitors in the Maxeys’ stories. For information about other heritage tourism late summer 2012. www.visitsambellmaxeyhouse.com opportunities in North Texas, order a free copy of the THC’s www.visitsamrayburnhouse.com 903.785.5716 Texas Lakes Trail Region travel guide by calling 866.276.6219 TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION 903.583.5558 www.thc.state.tx.us SUMMER 2012 or visiting www.texastimetravel.com. TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION www.thc.state.tx.us 9 Preservation Profile Preservation Profile

What are you whether that be focusing on museum Summer School looking forward to studies or archeology or whatever else accomplishing this I might learn about this summer. This THC’s Diversity Interns Continue Preservation Education summer? I’m really internship is perfect for me because it’ll

looking forward expose me to many different fields and By Andy Rhodes to seeing how my jobs that I may one day want to pursue. Managing Editor, The Medallion degrees and interests The important thing is that I learn what For many Texas students, summer vacation involves a trip Two University of Texas students—Cindy Brzostowski translate into actual the opportunities and possibilities are, to the beach or traveling with family members to a cooler and Jannie Scott—recently accepted the Friends of the careers. I know and that’s exactly what the THC will climate. Others choose to relinquish this educational break Texas Historical Commission’s invitation to participate what I like to learn offer me this summer! How do you like to spend your through internships like the Texas Historical Commission’s in the summer program (previously known as the about, so I’m happy to finally get to see free time? As can be expected, I love (THC) Diversity Interns program. Preservation Fellows). They will spend several months what that can mean to read! Besides that, my other main for my future. There passion is exploring and going on JANNIE SCOTT Why is Texas an interesting CINDY BRZOSTOWSKI are a lot of things about preservation adventures. Austin has so many great place to pursue a career in a history- and conservation and the jobs that go places to see and experience, and Why did you decide to pursue Why did you decide to pursue this related field? on behind the scenes that I don’t know I try my hardest to go to as many this internship opportunity with With regards to African internship opportunity with the Diaspora archeology as practiced about, and I feel like this is the best way as I can. H the THC? I wanted to gain more THC? After taking a class at UT within academia, Texas has been to learn what they are. professional experience and training Austin called Cultural Heritage on largely left out of the discussion of Why is Texas an in the field of archeology so I could Display, I became very interested in African American history and material interesting place to become a competent and competitive museum studies. When I heard about culture in the United States. Because pursue a career in a professional archeologist. Because I plan the THC’s diversity internship through of the little research carried out by history-related field? to conduct dissertation fieldwork at an the Department of Anthropology, I academic institutions, it’s difficult to Texas has quite an African American site in Central Texas, felt like it was the perfect opportunity compare the life experiences of enslaved interesting past, and is I also need to become more familiar for me to get my foot in the door with and emancipated African Americans very unique due to the with the many resources that the museum and cultural preservation/ residing in Texas to what is known amount and kinds of THC’s Archeology Division provides, conservation work. about the experiences of other enslaved people that have lived and make valuable contacts with agency How have your past experiences culture. I have also participated in and emancipated Afro-descendants here. In addition, the size employees who can provide advice in prepared you for interning with various archeological field schools throughout the African Diaspora. itself has allowed for a lot the future. the agency? I am an English and and archeological field surveys, where However, this means there are a lot of of diversity and different In addition, my research interest anthropology major, so I feel like both I aided in creating an artifact type research opportunities and growth for histories that need to be is the material culture and lifeways will be of value during my internship collection. Through a University of the field within the state. uncovered and preserved. of African Americans who lived in as they show my interest in cultural Arkansas fellowship program in 2011, I How do you anticipate using How do you Texas during the 19th- to early-20th studies and my ability to write and was able to gain experience integrating your experience at the THC in the anticipate using your centuries. I have a personal interest analyze. Additionally, I participated GPS and geographic information future? One of the tasks I anticipate experience at the in increasing the representation and in an archeology dig through UT last systems to archeological fieldwork, and my internship will involve is analyzing THC in the future? interpretation of archeological sites that summer, so I have dabbled a little bit I became familiar with using ground- and cataloging historic period ceramics. I’m hoping I’ll have a pertain to the African Diaspora. The with artifacts. Now I’m looking forward penetrating radars and magnetometers This will be useful because it will allow better idea of what I THC has demonstrated a continued to seeing the other side of working with for archeological survey work. me to become more familiar with the want to do after college, commitment to highlight the histories them as a curatorial assistant. What are you looking forward types of historic ceramics commonly and contributions of underrepresented to accomplishing this summer? I’m found in Texas. I also anticipate doing minorities to Texas. This summer, the THC is also hosting Anna Lumbroso, an opportunities. For more information, contact Sara Allen at looking forward to working alongside some sort of public outreach, which How have your past experiences intern from France attending the prestigious École du Louvre. [email protected] or 512.936.0845. a professional archeologist, and the will prove useful as public archeology prepared you for interning Anna’s work at the THC is sponsored by the French Heritage The THC’s Diversity Internship program was created prospect of gaining more training is becoming more standard practice with the agency? As a third-year Society in partnership with the Friends of the THC as part of specifically to build interest in and awareness of historic and becoming more familiar with the within historical archeological research graduate student, I have enrolled in the Society’s cultural exchange program. Anna will assist preservation, economic development, and related fields among resources and programs the projects in the United States. and completed a number of classes the THC’s Historic Sites Division with collection conservation students from underrepresented ethnic groups. Stipends for THC offers. How do you like to spend your that shaped my understanding of assessments and related work. In addition to the Diversity internships are funded by the Friends of the THC with private free time? In the little free time that archeological methods and theory, Internship and sponsored internships such as the French donations. To learn more about how you can help, visit www. I do have, I enjoy taking road trips as well as increase my understanding Heritage Society, the THC offers a number of unpaid internship thc.state.tx.us/awards/awdfellows.shtml. and reading. of African American history and

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION www.thc.state.tx.us SUMMER 2012 TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION 104 11 THC Outreach SiteSite S pSpototliglightht Texas Treasure Master of Plaster San Angelo Receives First Lady’s Award Larry Limon’s Adobe Skills Vital to Magoffin Home’s Successful Restoration

By Andy Rhodes By Andy Rhodes Managing Editor, The Medallion Managing Editor, The Medallion

When preservationists San Angelo Old Town The first thing most visitors notice natural materials that are hundreds of Limon also humbly expressed pride describe San Angelo’s Conservancy, Historic when they approach the newly restored years old, and they’re holding up well.” in his work on plastering the fireplace historical appeal, City Center Project, Magoffin Home in El Paso is the stark, Limon incorporated this approach and the home’s exterior walls. He the word “multi- Inc., and Angelo State crisp white of the exterior plaster. in his Magoffin credited the experience faceted” is inevitably University. Together “Wow—it looks so clean!” Home work, to the memory of his used. Distinctively with the City of San “I’ve never seen such a bright shade where he admits father Johnny, who different aspects of Angelo, they are of white before.” he encountered a passed away just before the community’s active participants in “How’d they do that?” few challenges. For the project began. heritage are reflected projects ranging from The last question can be answered example, he notes “The Magoffin in local gems such as the restoration of the by Larry Limon, a fourth-generation the adobe walls Home is such a special historic Fort Concho, city’s Works Progress plasterer from nearby southern New extended more than place, and it was the last Miss Hattie’s Bordello Administration pool Mexico, who oversaw all aspects of two feet into the job that he and I talked Museum, and even the house (now part of the plaster work during the site’s ground, making it about,” Limon said. “He uniquely homegrown a modern swimming recent restoration project. The was always so proud of Concho Pearl. complex), historic circa-1875 adobe Magoffin his plaster work. He was These resources, resources surveys, Home, one of 20 historic my hero—I learned so along with the city’s reinvestment sites operated by the Texas much from him.” many preservation- in the historic Historical Commission (THC), He adds, “My dad oriented programs downtown district, was closed nearly 16 months and I worked with these affiliated with the Texas the preservation of for preservation work before materials most of my life, Historical Commission City Hall, and the reopening to the public in May. so it’s very comfortable (THC), resulted in restoration of an Limon, 53, has been to get on a project like San Angelo recently entire block of working with plaster since he this and be in familiar receiving the 2012 abandoned historic was 12 years old. Through his situations. You have to First Lady’s Texas buildings in the family’s guidance, he learned the get a good feel for how Treasures Award. It spotlights communities that lovingly shadow of the Museum of Fine Arts. art of working with the sun-dried all these materials work First Lady Anita Perry officially maintain their monuments from the past in San Angelo was chosen from a adobe bricks, composed of earthen together. My heart presented the award during a visit earlier order to create a stronger future.” group of highly qualified candidates materials and often covered with and soul are part of this year. Initiated in 2009, the award Perry cited several examples of San by a committee comprised of staff a distinctive whitewashed plaster. my plasters.” recognizes communities that showcase Angelo’s commitment to preservation, members from the Office of the Governor Over the years, Limon witnessed Magoffin Home Site their dedication to community preservation including the recent restoration of the and the THC. several trends in his line of work Manager Leslie Bergloff efforts through participation in THC downtown 1929 Cactus Hotel, participation “I want to thank the First Lady for that would ultimately prove to be praised Limon’s work, initiatives and other state and local as a Texas Main Street city since 2005, sponsoring this truly deserved award,” problematic, including the use of saying, “I’m thrilled Fourth-generation plasterer Larry Limon programs. The Office of the First Lady and designation as a Preserve America said THC Executive Director Mark Wolfe. cement and acrylics in an attempt applied his expertise to the Magoffin with the outcome of this the THC sponsor the award. community, and involvement with the “Texas Treasures communities represent to strengthen and extend the life Home restoration. project. With Larry’s “Texas Treasures are communities THC’s Texas Forts Trail Region. a strong commitment to enriching the of the materials. help, we have secured the that go the extra mile to discover their According to April Garner of the THC’s lives of visitors through the preservation “When you use cement, it traps difficult to determine where the walls preservation of this building and we’re roots, teach living history lessons, heritage tourism program, San Angelo’s of their real places telling the real stories moisture inside the adobe and can really ended and the earth began. He also welcoming visitors to experience this and create a lasting legacy for future dedication is also evident through the work of Texas. The efforts of the citizens of damage the mortar and plaster,” Limon addressed a major structural concern magnificently restored treasure.” generations,” Perry said. “This award of many individuals and organizations, San Angelo should encourage other said. “I’ve always been more partial to on an interior wall, which had been To learn more about the recognizes visionary communities that put including Downtown San Angelo, Inc., the communities to follow on their own the older materials like lime and mud, reduced to a six-inch support system Magoffin Home and the THC’s in the hard work required to ensure that Tom Green County Historical Commission, preservation journey.” H which are much more permeable. They decades ago when a shelf had been other historic properties, visit their hometown is different from the next. the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, the allow the adobe to breathe. You can still carved into nearly 20 inches of it. www.visitmagoffinhome.com find houses and buildings made with and www.texashistoricsites.com. H

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION www.thc.state.tx.us SUMMER 2012 TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION 12 1317 NEWS IN BRIEF CHC C orner

an emphasis on Goal 8: Build Capacity Community Connections of Preservation Community. The Wildfire Fighting Teams Accept Governor’s Award workshop attendees, successful in their THC Regional Workshops Link Texas Preservationists own pursuits, shared their experiences, Gov. Rick Perry and the Texas Historical Commission (THC) recently recognized which also made the workshops Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Wildland Firefighting Teams with the By Amy Hammons educational for us. prestigious Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation. Perry presented the award County Historical Commission Outreach Coordinator The workshop locations provided to six TPWD representatives of three different regions in Texas that comprise the a wide range of inspirational historic For the past decade, the Texas Historical attend the three-day conference. Wildland Firefighting Teams. downtowns and buildings for our Commission’s (THC) Annual Historic With the recent update of Texas’ meeting spaces and tours. We are so Preservation Conference has been the Statewide Preservation Plan, our goal Last year, Texas suffered the most severe drought in the state’s history. In grateful to our attendees, our speakers, primary source for CHCs to educate, was to focus on priorities identified April and September, wildfires spread across three state parks, including Possum and our local hosts for contributing train, and network. Although the within the plan while providing content Kingdom, Bastrop, and the Davis Mountains. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) their time and energy to make this conference has been suspended as a reflecting specific needs identified by developed these parks during the Great Depression in the 1930s. Firefighting Team workshop series successful. result of last year’s legislative each region. We worked with CHCs, Gov. Perry presents the THC’s Governor’s Award. members were able to save most of the historic CCC buildings in these parks, For more information about the spending countless hours on the front lines. budget cuts, a series of five regional CLGs, and other local partners to workshops, please visit the Statewide “It is an honor to present our brave firefighters with this award,” said Gov. Perry. “Members of the Wildland Firefighting workshops in May provided develop workshop discussions and Preservation Plan for Texas website at Teams saved both lives and part of our history while risking their own lives and comfort in unimaginable conditions. Historic preservationists throughout Texas identify speakers that would make www.preservationconnection.com.H CCC buildings in some of our most cherished landscapes are still standing because of the determination and dedication of opportunities previously offered each workshop informative, engaging, these brave men and women.” through the conference. and affordable. The THC recently hosted regional workshops For more information about the award, contact the THC’s History Programs Division at 512.463.5853. at Eastland’s historic Connellee Hotel (left) and To celebrate Preservation Month, The workshops included elements Kingsville’s King Ranch Museum and Visitor Hist oric Texas Courthouses For more information about the commendation to Cuero’s Chisholm Certified Local Government (CLG) of the eight Statewide Plan goals, with Center, a rehabilitated ice factory (right). Again Named To Nation’s Most courthouse program, contact the THC’s Trail Heritage Museum. Coordinator Matt Synatschk and I Endangered List Architecture Division at 512.463.6094. For more information about the offered these workshops Texas’ historic courthouses have awards, visit www.preservationtexas. to give back to the been named for the second time Preservation Texas Presents org or call 512.472.0102. individuals and to the National Trust for Historic Annual Honor Awards organizations that Preservation’s 11 Most Endangered Preservation Texas recently announced National Park Service work to preserve and Historic Places list. 10 Honor Awards recognizing PRODUCES NEW Publication protect the real places More than 70 historic county accomplishments in historic As part of the commemoration of the of Texas. Synatschk courthouses across the state remain in preservation that inspire Texans and Civil War’s 150th anniversary, the had also provided need of rehabilitation. Fortunately, 83 encourage them in their efforts to National Park Service (NPS) recently information and one- successful courthouse projects have protect the irreplaceable resources released the booklet Hispanics and the on-one meetings for taken place across the state since the of the state. The following recipients Civil War: From Battlefield to Homefront his statewide contacts landmarks were first placed on the were selected. about the significant roles played by at the THC’s annual country’s 11 Most Endangered List Clara Driscoll Award—Clovis and Hispanics on both sides of the conflict. conference, so the in 1998. Maryann Heimsath; Heritage Education “The nationwide multiyear regional workshops “Since the courthouse program’s Award—The San Juan Economic observance of the Civil War is an allowed us to reach inception, nearly $247 million has been Development Corporation; Texas Media opportunity to remind millions of many partners who were awarded to more than 83 counties Award—Hotel Galvez Centennial; Americans of all backgrounds of their previously unable to for the preservation of their county Historic Rehabilitation Award— ancestors’ participation in the Civil courthouses,” said Texas Historic Area Rapid Transit Police Headquarters War,” said the NPS’ Southeast Regional The Medallion is published quarterly by the Texas the basis of race, color, national origin, age, gender, or Courthouse Preservation Program at Illinois Station (Monroe Shops), Director David Vela. “Hispanic citizens Historical Commission. Address correspondence to: disability. Any person who believes he or she has been Managing Editor, The Medallion, P.O. Box 12276, discriminated against should write to Office of Equal Director Stan Graves. “Courthouse Austin’s McGarrah Jesse Building, and immigrants alike fought on land Austin, TX 78711-2276. Portions of the newsletter Opportunity, U.S. Department of the Interior, restorations have generated more and La Grange’s Texas Quilt Museum; and sea in every theater of the war.” that are not copyrighted or reprinted from other Washington, D.C. 20240. Our Mission than 8,579 jobs throughout Texas, and Historic Restoration Award— Houston’s Hispanics and the Civil War: From sources may be reprinted with permission. Contributions for the support of this publication The Medallion is available online at To protect and preserve the state’s historic more than $19 million in local taxes. Harris County Courthouse, San Battlefield to Homefront explores the are gratefully accepted. For information about www.thc.state.tx.us/medallionmag/mddefault.shtml. and prehistoric resources for the use, We’re grateful the Texas Legislature Antonio’s Mission Nuestra Señora lives of the 20,000 Hispanics, many alternate formats of this publication, contact the If you would prefer to receive The Medallion THC at 512.463.6255. electronically instead of through the mail, please send education, enjoyment, and economic has supported us through challenging de la Purísma Concepción de Acuña of them Texans, who chose to fight in your name and address to [email protected]. You benefit of present and future generations. economic times, providing a strong and Mission San José y San Miguel the war. The full-color publication is The Medallion is financed in part by a grant from will be notified by email when each new issue is foundation on which to build an even de Aguayo, and Austin’s University available for $4.95 at www.eparks.com. the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the available on the THC website and will no longer receive Interior. All of the agency’s public programs and a printed copy. stronger program.” United Methodist Church. Preservation activities are operated free from discrimination on Texas also presented a special

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION www.thc.state.tx.us SUMMER 2012 TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION 14 15 The Medallion Texas Historical Commission PRESORTED STANDARD P.O. Box 12276 U.S. POSTAGE PAID Austin, TX 78711-2276 AUSTIN, TX PERMIT NO. 1938

where on earth...in texas

Know your Texas history? Put your skills to the test by identifying the pictured site! The first three people who correctly identify the location will receive a prize and be named in the next issue of The Medallion. Send your answer to: The Medallion, P.O. Box 12276, Austin, TX 78711-2276; via fax to 512.463.6374; or email to [email protected]. Limit one prize annually per contestant. WNeed a clue? This cemetery, established circa 1854 on the outskirts of a Central Texas German community, was designated by the THC as a Historic Texas Cemetery in 2008.

Answer to the photo from the last issue: Fort Leaton (at left) in Presidio was constructed in the 1840s as a circa 25-room adobe compound by trader Ben Leaton. It was renovated by the CCC in the 1930s, and acquired by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1967. Congratulations to the first three readers who submitted the correct answer: Denis Kistner of Magnolia, Pastor Mike Laverde of El Paso, and Bob Trescott of Kingsville. Thanks to all participants! H

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