Guide to Research at the MFAH Archives

Bayou Bend and Miss Ima Hogg

Bayou Bend was designed by architect John F. Staub and built between 1927 and 1928 for Miss Ima Hogg and her brothers, William C. and Michael Hogg. In 1957 Miss Hogg donated her home and her collection to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH). The home was opened to the public in 1966 and currently contains several thousand objects installed in some 28 period room settings showcasing American decorative arts from 1620 through 1870. Researchers will find substantial information at the MFAH on Bayou Bend, the Hogg family and Houston history, and American Decorative Arts, as well as the records of the River Oaks Garden Club, whose members help maintain the Bayou Bend gardens. Contact the Archives at 713-639-7733 for further information.

Bayou Bend and the Hogg family Ima Hogg papers, 1888-1991 (bulk 1960s) MS21 ImaHoggPapers The papers offer photographs, scrapbooks, sound recordings, bound volumes, paper files and objects. These records document Hogg’s civic activities, art collection and history of Bayou Bend. They include a sketchbook done by a youthful Miss Ima, a family letterbook, scrapbooks compiled by Bayou Bend docents and photographs of the house and gardens as well as of friends and family.

Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens Records, 1960-1997 RG17 BayouBendRecords Included are the records of the director´s office, curator, education department, gardens, and financial records. The Bayou Bend records trace the formation and administration of the institution. See also online finding aids for the correspondence and subject files of Bayou Bend director, David Warren, 1987-1994 (RG17:01).

Mike and Alice Hogg papers, 1919-1972 (bulk 1930-1941) MS19 MikeandAliceHoggPapers Mike Hogg, Texas legislator, businessman and civic leader, was son to Governor James Stephen and Sallie Hogg and brother to Ima Hogg. In 1931, he and wife Alice moved into a residence at 2950 Lazy Lane, adjacent to Bayou Bend. The papers include records created or gathered by Hogg family members for the purpose of managing the Hogg Estate, and personal and domestic affairs.

E.L. Wehner papers, 1926-1980 MS40 ELWehnerPapers The E.L. Wehner papers document the role of Wehner as executor of the will of Miss Ima Hogg. In addition, the papers contain materials concerning the donation of Memorial Park to the city of Houston, the establishment of Bayou Bend as a branch of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the involvement of Miss Hogg in civic affairs.

MFAH Photograph Collection Includes photographs of buildings, groups and individuals, and events, dating from 1966 when the house was opened to the public.

MFAH Architectural Collection In addition to architectural drawings in a variety of formats, the collection contains account statements, architectural specifications, project histories, correspondence, and memoranda. Highlights include two alternate renderings of Bayou Bend's dining room by interior decorator, William Mackay, done for Ima Hogg's selection of wallpaper. Includes expansion and renovation plans for Bayou Bend.