Vol. XXXIX, NO. 1 Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 Jefferson Map – Inside Back Cover Jefferson, Texas�Keeping The Past Alive!
A Publication of the Historic Jefferson Foundation, Jefferson, Texas www.historicjeffersonfoundation.com © Historic Jefferson Foundation Page 2 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020
SERVING EAST TEXAS SINCE THE 1860’S
JEFFERSONGENERALSTORE.COM OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK ~ OPEN LATE FRIDAY AND SATURDAY Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 3 Contents
4...... Calendar of Events
5...... Jefferson Carnegie Library 6 - 7 ...... 72nd Annual Jefferson Historical Pilgrimage 8...... 65th Annual Diamond Bessie Murder Trail by Bobbie Hardy 9 - 10, 14...... Places to Eat 11...... Jefferson’ s Annual Civil War Symposium 12 -14...... Places to Eat 13, 22-23...... Places to Stay 14 - 15, 20...... Places to Shop 17 - 19...... Candlelight Tour of Homes 21 -23 ...... Attractions 24 - 25...... Growing Up Jefferson 26...... Advertisers’ Index 27...... City Map Spring / Summer 2019 HJFHJF Historic Jefferson Foundation P.O. Box 688 • Jefferson, TX 75657 P.O. Box 688 • Jefferson, TX 75657 903-665-7064 Application for Membership A Publication of Historic Jefferson Foundation Please mail a check along with this completed application to the above address. 2019 Historic Jefferson Foundation Officers Annual Membership Fee – $40.00 President: Laura Omer Please fi ll in all information Vice-President: Bill DeWare First Name ______Secretary: Sharon Goolsby • Treasurer: Sam Ayer Last Name ______
Board Members Street Address ______Elaine Altman Christi Gaither Mary Nash Howard Blatch Bill Gleason Diana Walla Mailing Address ______Pat Ring Candy Dickson City______Colleen Taylor Charles Haggard State ______Zip ______www.historicjeffersonfoundation.com www.jeffersoncandlelight.com Phone (______) ______
Like us on Email ______Copyright 2019 - Historic Jefferson Foundation Page 4 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 Calendar of Events DATES EVENTS DATES EVENTS APR July 20 Stem to Stem / Enoch's Stomp Apr 5-7 City Wide Rummage Sale July 20 White Grape Harvest Festival / Enoch's Stomp Apr 6 History Haunts & Legends AUG Apr 6 4 Man Charity Golf Scramble for Jefferson Carnegie Library / Wood Hollow Aug 10 8th Annual Civil War Symposium Apr 11 Chamber Mixer / Cumberland Presbyterian Church Aug 24 Red Grape Stomp / Enoch's Stomp Apr 11-14 17th Annual AHRMA Riverport International Vintage Motocross Aug 31 Labor Day Celebration / Historic Jefferson Railway Apr 13 Women of Jefferson Organization (WOJO) 5k Scholarship Rabbit Run SEPT Apr 13 Embears 2nd Boutique Hop Sept 7 Jefferson Fire Brigade Benefit Car Show / Lions Club Apr 18 Chamber Bags & Bingo / Tourism Transportation Convention Center Sept 28-29 35th Lake O'Pines Norton Owners Association Rallye & Bike Show Apr 18 Jefferson Historical Museum Lecture Series Program OCT Apr 19-20 Opera House Theatre Players / Comedy Play Oct 3 Women of Jefferson Organization (WOJO) Wine & Appetizer Social Apr 19-21 Outlaw Nationals Car Show & Swap Meet Oct 4-6 City Wide Rummage Sale (Fall) Apr 20 Spring Wine Walk / Enoch's Stomp Oct 11-13 Burn Benefit Biker Rally Apr 20 Jefferson Historic Railway - Easter Egg Express Oct 17 Jefferson Historical Museum Lecture Serices Program Apr 22 Lunch & Learn: Collins Academy / Jefferson Institute Oct 17-20 Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards MAY Oct 17-20 Texas Sounds International Line Dance Festival May 2-5 72nd Pilgrimage - "River, Romance & Revelry" Oct 18-19 Texas Bigfoot Conference May 2-5 Diamond Bessie Murder Trial / Jefferson Playhouse Oct 18-19 Marion County Fair Pageant / Kellyville, TX May 3 Civil War Living History, "Day of Learning" / Diamond Don RV Park Oct 20 28th Annual Taste of Jefferson May 3-5 Battle for Jefferson Civil War Reenactment NOV May 4 Embears Margarita 3 Nov 2 History, Haunts & Legends May 4 Chamber Derby Day Nov 30 Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony May 4-5 The Great Locomotive Chase & Civil War Train Battle DEC May 9 Chamber Monthly Member Mixer Dec 5-7 37th Jefferson Candlelight Tour of Homes May 11 Mother's Day Express Special Train Ride Dec 7 Enoch's Stomp Vineyard & Winery Holiday Shop May 12 Enoch's Stomp Mother's Day Brunch Dec 12-14 37th Jefferson Candlelight Tour of Homes May 18 -19 8th Annual Historic Jefferson Train Show Dec 14-15 Jefferson Gun & Knife Show May 19 Jefferson Train Days - Social & Shoot Out Dec 31 Black & White Gala WTW / Auntie Skinners May 25 Enoch's Stomp South African Pig Roast JAN May 25 Memorial Day Celebration / Historical Jefferson Railway Jan 16-18 Pulpwood Queen Girlfriend Weekend May 30-31 Big Cypress Corvette Weekend Jan 19 Martin Luther King Day Parade JUNE Jan 20 Martin Luther King Day Youth Program June 1 Big Cypress Corvette Weekend Jan 20 Martin Luther King Day Banquet June 7-9 East Texas Performing Arts Musical Jan 24-25 Jefferson Quilt Show, "Quilts on the Bayou" / Jefferson Institute June 13-16 East Texas Performing Arts Musical FEB June 15 Father's Day Express Train Feb 21-23 Mardi Gras Upriver Celebration Weekend - "Holidays on the Bayou" JULY MAR July 4 Jefferson Salutes America / Otstott Park Mar 17 Saint Patrick's Day Party / McGarity's Saloon July 4 Made in the Shade 4th of July Celebration July 4 4th of July Railway Rides RECURRING EVENTS: Artisan Show / Made in the Shade, 2nd Saturday each July 4 WTW Celebration / Auntie Skinners month, weather permitting July 4-6 Opera House Theatre Players / Live Play July 18 Jefferson Historical Museum Lecture Series Program Jefferson Cruise Night / 3rd Friday each month, Mar through Oct Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 5 Jefferson Carnegie Library
Are you looking for an elegant and affordable venue for your next reception, prom, wedding, JEFFERSON dinner or conference? Look no further than the Jefferson Carnegie Library. The ballroom sits on the second floor of the library and overlooks the Sterne Fountain and the historic district CARNEGIE of downtown Jefferson. At night, the windows are lit up like jewels and exude ambiance and charm. The ballroom can seat up to 200 people. When you rent the space, there is no extra LIBRARY charge added for the use of the 20 round tables and 200 chairs. This makes this venue one of the most affordable places to rent in town. Come take a look at our space and let our friendly 301 W. Lafayette St., Jefferson, TX 75657 staff book your next event. Call 903-665-8911. We look forward to working with you! Phone: (903) 665-8911 jeffersoncarnegielibrary.org Circulation Desk & Reservations: [email protected] Library Administrator: [email protected] Come see our elegant and historic ballroom to rent for your wedding, reception, prom, party or next corporate meeting. Library Hours: Monday-Thursday. 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Friday. 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Saturday. 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Sunday: Closed Ballroom Rentals
JEFFERSON MATTERS BECAUSE LOCAL NEWS MATTERS
NO STATION COVERS JEFFERSON LIKE
Dan Jovic Jacque Jovic Page 6 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020
72ND ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE proudly presented by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club River,River, RomanceRomance && RevelryRevelry Annual Pilgrimage in Beautiful downtown Jefferson, Texas where each year we offer beautiful Historic Homes & Garden Tours Downtown Parade Heirloom Plant Sale Craft Sale Heritage Quilt Exhibit Tours of Jay Gould’s Private Railroad Car Diamond Bessie Murder Trial Excelsior House Grand Ballroom Luncheon Headquarters located at the Excelsior House Hotel 211 W. Austin Street 903-665-2513 • 903-452-3836 www.jeffersonpilgrimage.com [email protected] Save the Date 73rd Historical Pilgrimage May 2 - 5, 2019 April 30, May 1-3, 2020
72nd Annual Jefferson Historical Pilgrimage “River, Romance & Revelry” May 2 - 5, 2019 By Weldon W. Nash, Jr. The Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club story of a murder and a subsequent trial proudly presents the 72nd edition of its time- which occurred in Jefferson in 1877. All honored Pilgrimage on May 2, 3, 4, and 5, performances are held in the historic 2019. This year’s Historical Pilgrimage Jefferson Playhouse at the corner of Market “River, Romance & Revelry” brings to mind and Henderson Streets. Tickets to the everything Jefferson. Walk along the banks 65th Diamond Bessie Murder Trial may of the Big Cypress Bayou; be romanced be purchased by calling 903-665-0737 or by our wonderfully and lovingly restored writing Diamond Bessie Tickets, 305 W. historic homes and buildings while reveling Lafayette, Jefferson, Texas 75657. Advanced in the events and attractions of Pilgrimage. ticket purchase is strongly advised. We revere our rich history while living Home and Garden Tours The Pilgrimage enthusiastically in the present tech-age. We gets in full swing on Friday and Saturday, invite and encourage you to come enjoy all May 3 and 4, when the doors of four that Pilgrimage and Jefferson have to offer. beautiful historic homes will be open for 65th Diamond Bessie Murder Trial visitors between the hours of 11:00 am – 65th Diamond Bessie Murder Trial kicks 5:00 pm. Period dressed docents will show off the 72nd Pilgrimage with the first of the homes and their furnishings while giving 5 performances beginning on Thursday the homes’ histories. The homes are shown evening, May 2, at 7:30 pm. Other below. performances are on Friday, May 2, at 7:30 On Friday & Saturday, May 3 & 4 pm, Saturday, May 4, at 5:30 pm and 8:30 between the hours of 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm, be pm and Sunday, May 5, at 2:00 pm. This inspired and informed by touring four unique The J.H. Benefield, Sr. House – 1009 S. Line St. captivating drama is based on the true and lovely gardens: the Walla Garden at 402 Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 7 E. Jefferson St., The Garden at the Manse will be open from 9:00 am at 401 E. Delta St., House of the Seasons until 5:00 pm on Friday & Garden at 409 S. Alley Street and Port Saturday, May 3 & 4, and on Jefferson History & Nature Center Garden Sunday May 5 from 9:00 am in the 100 Block Dallas Street. until 3:00 pm. Home and garden tickets cost $25 Heirloom Plant Sale each and may be purchased online at Located on the porch of the jeffersonpilgrimage.com for a discounted Excelsior House contains price of $24 each. Tickets may also be many reasonably priced purchased at Pilgrimage Headquarters in plants some of which have front of the Excelsior House, 211 W. Austin been started from cuttings of Street each day of Pilgrimage beginning at local plants by the members 9:30 am. Tickets are non-refundable. of the club. Take time to Parade At 10:00 am on Saturday, May browse and shop from 9:00 5, an array of floats, old cars, buggies, am – 5:00 pm on Friday & bands, horses and re-enactors will make its Saturday, May 3 & 4. way through town. Highlighting the end of Heritage Quilt Exhibit The Dotson Home Place – 304 N. Walnut St. the parade is the Town Skirmish in which Located at 120 E. Austin visiting Confederate and Union re-enactors Street in the Jefferson put on a lively show for visitors. Institute is an outstanding on Sunday morning, May 6, at 10:00 am special element of real history to Pilgrimage Hotel Luncheon Buffet On Saturday, collection of quilts, some used in the Civil in front of Christ Episcopal Church, 703 S. are the hundreds of re-enactors who bring May 4, from 11:30 am until 1:00 pm at a cost War, and other fiber arts. This exhibit Main Street as you watch the re-enactment their families to Jefferson camping in tents of Miss Fannie Benners’ horseback in areas all over Jefferson set aside for the re- ride presenting the flag made by enactors to care for their horses, cook over the women of Christ Episcopal fires, and play instruments and sing in the Church to the Jefferson Guard twilight – feel free to stop by and visit. as Jefferson’s young men left to With its “River, Romance and Revelry” fight for the Confederacy in 1861. Pilgrimage, the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Authentic Civil War music will be Club creates for you the unique experience played by the Hill College Band of looking fondly and nostalgically at our from Hillsboro, Texas. past, embracing the present and anticipating Other Attractions Besides just with excitement the future! Come join us for strolling along the brick streets of that Pilgrimage experience on May 2, 3, 4, Jefferson walk across the bridge and 5, 2019. or along the raised nature walk beside the hauntingly beautiful For more information, visit our website: Big Cypress Bayou. Boat tours of jeffersonpilgrimage.com. the Bayou, horse-drawn carriage Find us on Facebook: Jefferson Pilgrimage. The Beard House – 212 Vale Street rides, steam train rides, historic hotels, restaurants, clothing, gift Email [email protected] or and antique shops, the R. D. Moses call 903 452-3836 or of $15, enjoy the delicious salad luncheon includes demonstrations of weaving, model railroad exhibit and much more are all the Excelsior House at 903 665-2513. buffet provided and served by Jessie Allen quilting, embroidery, and other handwork. available for your enjoyment. Also adding a Wise Garden Club members in the Grand The Heritage Quilt Exhibit is free Ballroom and Courtyard of the Excelsior and open to the public on Friday and House. Reservations are encouraged; call Saturday, May 3 & 4, from 9:00 am 903 665-2513 or go to jeffersonpilgrimage. until 5:00 pm. com or theexcelsiorhouse.com. Online Dr. Doc Plumbob Saturday, May Luncheon ticket sales will end April 29. 4, in front of the Atalanta Rail Car Tickets are non-refundable. across the street from the Excelsior Jay Gould Railroad Car Located across Hotel immediately following the the street from the Excelsior Hotel is the parade and town skirmish and again Atalanta, the private rail car of notorious at 2:00 pm, listen to the traveling railroad baron, Jay Gould, of New York medicine man, Dr. Doc Plumbob, City. Visit this uniquely furnished car barking the finest advancements in built in 1886 and discover how it came to modern medical wares. No sure cure, Jefferson. Tour tickets are $5.00 and can be but he guarantees you’ll feel a lot purchased at the Excelsior House or online better after a nip of Doc Plumbob’s at theexcelsiorhouse.com. Tickets are non- Quicker Fixer Elixer. refundable. Jefferson Guard Presentation Craft Fair and Sale Located in William of Colors Re-enactment Continue The Dotson-King House – 312 N. Walnut St. Perry Park adjacent to the Excelsior House Pilgrimage with a unique experience Page 8 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 65th Annual Diamond Bessie Murder Trial By Bobbie Hardy
Jefferson’s 72nd Annual Historical Pil- grimage presented by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club is scheduled for May 2-5, 2019. In 1955, the Diamond Bessie Murder Trial became an eagerly-anticipated addition to the Pilgrimage celebration, and 65 years later, this unique adaptation of the last stages of the nationally-famous trial of Abraham Rothschild for the 1877 murder of the beau- tiful Diamond Bessie, traditionally plays to sold-out audiences. Bessie Moore, alias Diamond Bessie, was from a wealthy New York shoe-manufactur- ing family and was blessed with stunning beauty. Abraham Rothschild was the hand- some son of a diamond-wealthy family. Both made tragic decisions that adversely affected their lives. Abe and Bessie were married in Danville, Illinois, in early January 1877. Shortly there- after, they headed south by rail, eventually traveling on Jay Gould’s new Texas & Pa- cific Railroad. After several days in the old Capitol Hotel in Marshall, Texas, the couple arrived in Jefferson. This is where our pro- duction begins. Mrs. Lawton Riley, the playwright, mixed tragedy and humor with fact and conjecture to create this exciting and captivating drama which is staged in Jefferson’s historic Play- Jim Finstrom as Defense Attorney Dave A. Morelli; Jack Rasberry, David Ham and Tickets for the 65th annual performances house, located on the corner of Henderson Culberson; Bill Gleason as Prosecuting At- Doug Thompson as Justice Bankstead; Skip will be available beginning January 2, 2019, and Market streets. The setting, once a Jew- torney George Todd; Mitchel Whitington Torrans as Judge Estus; Bubba Haggard and by calling Beth Crawford on the Diamond ish synagogue, has a distinct resemblance to as Sheriff John Vines; Mary Spearmon as Joey Romano as Sam the gravedigger; Will Bessie ticket-line, 903-665-0737. The cost the courtroom where the real drama played Jennie Simpson; Brooke Bradley-LaFleur Baldwin as Jim; Michael Martin as the jani- per ticket is $20. out over 140 years ago. and Sheila Langbartels as Isabella Gouldy; tor; and Steven Coleman and James Dreesen Show times are Thursday, May 2 and Jefferson, the historic little town on Big Charlie Horn and Dave Little as Antonio as bailiff and court reporter. Friday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, May Cypress Bayou, has its share of ghost stories. 4 at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday, May 5 You will witness the best one of all when at 2 p.m. Diamond Bessie rises from her grave to spy on the re-enactment of her own sensational murder trial. Our dedicated and distinguished return- ing cast of characters includes Kimberly Parsons who will be playing the role of Dia- mond Bessie for the fourth year. Ms. Parsons For additional Diamond Bessie holds a Master’s Degree in Vocal Perfor- mance from Baylor University. The role of information, please visit Abraham Rothschild will be played for the www.jeffersonpilgrimage.com or 18th year by David Ham. Joining Mr. Ham www.diamondbessieplay.com. for the second year will be Zachary Venable who holds a degree in Music Education from LSU, Baton Rouge. Accompanying the stars of our show for the 31st year will be organist Glennda Abraham. Other returning cast members include Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 9
The Historic Cumberland Presbyterian Church welcomes you! The Cumberland Presbyterian Church is the largest historic church in Jefferson. It has been restored and adapted to serve its members, friends, the community and Jefferson’s many visitors who want to worship, serve God and create good memories in historic Jefferson. Built in 1872, at the height of the steamboat era, the church structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is included in the Historic American Buildings Survey. It is a recorded Texas Landmark. The Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Jefferson Opportunities for Worship and Study: 9:45 am Sunday School & Bible Study (Children and Adults) 10:30 am Fellowship 11:00 am Worship CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 703 S. Main • Jefferson, TX 6:00 pm Wednesday Bible Study (903) 665-2693 www.jeffersonepiscopalchurch.org
Weddings Father David F.K. Puckett, Priest in Charge
Christian Education – Sunday, 9:45 a.m. Holy Eucharist – Sunday,11:00 a.m. For more information: The Episcopal Church Welcomes You! www.JeffersonPresbyterian.org Bridge – Monday 1:00 p.m. [email protected] or call (903) 665-2883 Exercise Class – Mon, Wed, Fri -10:30 a.m.
Joey Romano Immaculate conceptIon catholIc church Financial Advisor Established – 1863 201 N. Vale St., Jefferson, Texas 75657 126 W Lafayette St Phone: 903-665-2869 Jefferson, TX 75657 Email: [email protected] 903-665-9965 Pastor: Msgr. Zach Kunnakkattuthara Phone Number: 903-724-0865 www.edwardjones.com/joey-romano [email protected]
Weekend Eucharist Schedule: Saturday 5:30 pm, Sunday 9:00 am Reconciliation (Confessions): Saturday 4:45 - 5:15 pm, Sunday 8:15 - 8:45 am The KnighTLighT Tavern 202 North Walnut St. Historic Jefferson, TX 75657 (corner of Lafayette & Walnut) 903-665-8546 www.knightlighttavern.com “Olde World Restaurant” Wines from around the world, Handcrafted Beer, Steaks, Cheeseburgers, Seafood, Pastas, Salads, Tapas, Desserts & more. Page 10 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020
Hours: Homemade Soups • Healthy Salads Monday – Friday Vegetarian & Gluten Free Choices Available 11am – 3pm Large Variety of Pies & Desserts
Saturday 11am – 8pm HOME OF THE
Sunday KORNBREAD 12pm – 3pm SANDWICH! NOT THE SAME Open 7 days a week ‘OL BLANDWICH for lunch. 125 Polk St. • 903-665-0505 NOW OPEN FOR DINNER SATURDAY EVENINGS!
RESTAURANT 903-679-9000 Come by land or by water to enjoy the beautiful view and experience the ambience of Caddo Lake. Dine with your family and friends on our newly expanded deck and enjoy our Southern favorites. Golden Fried Catfish • Jalapeño Hushpuppies • Steaks • Shrimp • Alligator Blackened Catfish with Creole Crawfish Sauce • Crab Cakes • Frog Legs • Fried Green Tomatoes
211 PR 2422 | Karnack, TX 75661 Wed - Thurs: 5-9 PM | Fri: 5-10 PM | Sat: 11 AM - 10 PM | Sun: Noon - 7 PM Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 11 Jefferson’s Annual Civil War Symposium By Weldon W. Nash, Jr.
War Symposium each year is the Yankee leaders wanted Louisiana and Texas so publication of a book related to much, Dr. Jeff Kinard telling the tale of General Jefferson and the Civil War era. Camille de Polignac and his Texas Brigade and Each Symposium attendee receives Mark Christ presenting the sagas of several a copy of the book. The 2018 book leaders in Confederate Arkansas. was a Museum reprint of a rare, This one-day Symposium will be held at historical book, The Civil War Letters the City of Jefferson Convention & Visitors of David R. Garrett, Detailing the Center, 305 E. Austin Street, Jefferson, Texas. Adventures of the 6th Texas Cavalry, The registration fee includes a catered lunch, 1861-1865 containing the letters four presentations and vendor exhibits. The of a soldier in Ross’ Texas Cavalry program will include our traditional raffle of Brigade. Previous books published Civil War books and ephemera and a grand for the Symposiums include Civil prize of the rare Don Troiani print of Lee’s War Veterans of Jefferson’s Oakwood Texans. There will also be a silent auction of Cemetery, Antebellum Homes of Civil War collectables and rare books. For a Jefferson, Postbellum Homes of nominal additional fee, Symposium attendees Jefferson, “It is Naber Against can also enjoy the Speakers Reception on Nabor, Sun against Father...” Civil Friday evening to be held at the ballroom of War Letters from Jefferson, Texas, the Excelsior House. The reception includes Jefferson’s Civil War Veterans and refreshments, light hors d’ oeuvres and Their Reconstruction Era Occupations entertainment. All proceeds will benefit the On Saturday, Aug 10, 2018, the Jefferson Jefferson. New exhibitors in 2018 were James and A History of Jewish Citizenry in Jefferson Historical Society and Museum, a Historical Society and Museum will sponsor Neel and Garrett Glover. Jefferson, Texas. These books are available not-for profit 501 (c) 3 entity, for operation and the Eighth Annual Civil War Symposium in The first afternoon lecture was presented for purchase at the Museum and will also be maintenance of the Museum. Jefferson, Texas. This program will feature by Steven M. Mayeux, a Central Louisiana offered at the 2019 Symposium. The book to four historians and authors who are well versed agricultural consultant, former Marine tank be published for 2019 is titled “May God Have For information on registration, in Civil War history. This year’s symposium officer and “Louisiana Man”. He effectively Mercy On Us…”, Twenty-seven Days of the contact the Museum at will continue the tradition of prior years and and humorously presented “A Detailed Look Cane River Campaign in Louisiana. will focus on the Trans-Mississippi Department at Confederate and Union Gunboats on Red The Eighth Annual Civil War Symposium 223 W. Austin Street, of the Confederacy with a program theme of River, 1863-1865” which described the myriad to be held on Aug 10, 2019 will follow much Jefferson, Texas 75657, “Leadership in the Trans-Mississippi – The ironclads, tinclads, timberclads and cottonclads the same successful format as in previous years. (903)-665-2775 Good, Bad and Ugly”. involved in the Red River Campaign. The The stellar cast of speakers for 2019 include Dr. The Seventh Annual Civil War Symposium final speaker of the day was Dr. Bill Gurley, Gary Joiner relating the saga of Union Admiral www.jeffersonmuseum.com. that was held at the City of Jefferson Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the David Dixon Porter and the Mississippi Convention & Visitors Center in Aug 2018 was University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Squadron, Dr. Michael Parrish revealing why a very successful event having 120 attendees. Dr. Gurley presented a The Symposium was preceded with a Friday spell-binding saga of a evening Speakers Reception at the Excelsior surgeon in the Trans- House Ballroom at which 65 people attended. Mississippi based on The symposium started on Saturday morning the book that he co- with a presentation by Danny Sessums on the edited, "I Acted from 17th Texas, a most discombobulated regiment Principle. The Civil that did hard service in Polignac’s Texas War Saga of Dr. William Brigade in the Red River Campaign of 1864. M. McPheeters, The other morning speaker was Scott Dearman, Confederate Surgeon park superintendent of Mansfield State Historic in the Trans- Site, presenting a detailed narrative the Battle Mississippi." The of Pleasant Hill, Louisiana. Symposium closed Attendees enjoyed a Bar B-Q luncheon with a wrap-up session at the Visitors Center that was catered by by the speakers, a silent Jefferson’s own Riverport Bar B-Q who was auction and a raffle of named one of the top 50 Bar B-Q joints in Civil War books and the state by Texas Monthly magazine. After memorabilia and a lunch and during coffee breaks, attendees were grand prize of a framed free to visit and browse with Civil War book Don Troiani print of vendors. Another popular feature during breaks “Little Round Top” at was viewing the Civil War artifacts on display Gettysburg. by noted Civil War collectors George Susat of A tradition of Dallas, Joe Walker of Waco and Tom Moss of the Jefferson Civil Page 12 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020
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laurel DeWare BROKER Cell: (903) 738-3584 Email: [email protected] Kyle Vozzella 111 North Vale Street • P.O. Box 829 SALES AGENT Jefferson, Texas 75657 Cell: (318) 517-2641 903/665-2583 Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.portjeffersontitle.com
The Jeffersonian Institute
Jefferson’s Premier Event Venue for: IN BUSINESS SINCE 1981 Weddings/Receptions Conferences Call Ricky Wisdom Retreats 903-930-8147 Focus Groups Eric Wisdom 120 East Austin Street 903-930-2656 P.O. Box 764 Email: [email protected] Jefferson, Texas 75657 903.665.2567 903.733.1035 www.thejeffersonianinstitute.com [email protected]
New Construction, including Reproduction Housing & Remodeling of All Kinds! Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 13
The Excelsior House Hotel Experience a Bygone Era... SO S Experience a Bygone Era... Our istoric dinin room Bessie’s Landing and allroom are availa le Bessie’sBED & BREAKFAST Landing for rivate arties and BED207 & S. BREAKFAST Alley Street weddin s. Charming 2 Bedroom Cottage Charming 2 Bedroom Cottage lease call for in Jefferson’s Historic District more information. in Jefferson’s Historic District CALL FOR RESERVATIONS 972-247-3557 Come spend the night with us! OR CALLEMAIL FOR [email protected] RESERVATIONS 972-247-3557 Call a ead or just walk in to c eck for availa ility. OR EMAIL [email protected] This cottage is ideally suited for a weekend W ustin Street This cottage is ideally suited for a weekend getaway or long-term stay. Guests are encouraged getaway or long-term stay. Guests are encouraged to tour the main house built in 1857. thee e siorhouse o to tour the main house built in 1857. e e siorhousehote ai o Private Entrance vv LargeLarge VerandaVeranda Private Entrance vv Large Veranda vv FullyFully Stocked Stocked KitchenKitchen vv Washer/DryerWasher/DryerWasher/Dryer Downtown Historic Jefferson, TX 56 miles South of Texarkana on US 59 OR 15 miles North of Marshall, TX on US 59
www.AzaleaInn.net fferso Braley’s Bungalow e n J
-Directly on Lake O’ The Pines Bed Breakfast -Marina with boat launch 100 ft away -11 miles from Jefferson, Texas -1 Hour drive to Shreveport, LA Keep your Pj’s on, we serve Breakfast in the privacy of your room. -45 Minute drive to Longview, TX 6 YEARS RUNNING (903)-665-3546 -Fishing and Water Activities -Private Dock (903)-746-4469 -Sleeps 12 guests - NO pets tripadvisor (903)-930-7839 -Furnished full Kitchen 2013 - 2018 -Microwave Winner -Dishwasher Certificate of Excellence -Washer & Dryer -Flat screen TV -Dish Network/ Blu Ray -Free WIFI -Outdoor Grill 203 E. Dixon St. -Screened in back porch In the Historic District of Jefferson Texas with large deck -Boat, Kayak & Canoe Maybe it’s time to make a reservation Rentals you won’t regret and won’t forget! -Ping Pong & Corn Hole games available Call the Azalea Inn Today! 903-665-2500 vrbo.com Site #592239 www.BestBreakfastInTexas.com Page 14 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020
YESTERYEAR GIFT SHOP & Classy Glitz Boutique Happily Serving Customers for 37 years!
*UNIQUE GIFTS *COLLECTIBLES Crosses, Frames, Ornaments, Nutcrackers Jim Shore, Possible Dreams, Nutcrackers, Hats for Military, Fire Dept., Police, EMS, Snowbabies, Pie Birds, Joseph’s Studio Doctor, Nurse & More! by Roman, Painted Ponies & More! Collegiate Gift Items *CHRISTMAS ALL YEAR Tea Sets & Dolls Dept. 56 Lighted Houses & Village Accessories Handmade Baby & Lap Quilts Special Assortment of Santas & Angels Historical Jefferson Afghans Western Items/Seasonal Flags *ORNAMENTS - For All Seasons & Reasons Circle E Candles/Texas Spices & Dips Old World Christmas Ornaments/Baby/Wedding Unique Salt & Pepper Shakers Dogs & Cats & many more! Knives/Tin Signs/Texas Décor/Biker Gifts We Can Personalize Most Ornaments! Wedding & Anniversary Gifts *CLASSY CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Come see us for lots of friendly Service! New Jewelry & Purses Find us on Facebook: yesteryeargiftshopTX Several Clothing Lines Website: www.yesteryeargiftshop.com Vintage Hats & Steampunk Hats Leather Vests & Jackets for Men & Women E-Mail: [email protected]
Hours: Tues 12-5 / Wed-Sat 10-5 / Closed Sun & Mon 102 S. Polk St., Jefferson, TX (903)665-8692
Fudge ~ Candy • Chocolates & Truffles • Hard to Find Bottled Drinks • Espresso/Coffee Bar Jams, Jellies, Gourmet Food Mixes • Gifts, Toys, Unique Kitchen Items • Books by Local Authors Breakfast & Lunch Served Daily Grill 7am - 2pm Daily Hours: Mon - Fri 7am - 5pm Hours: Sat 8am - 6pm Sun 8am - 5pm Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 15
“A Day Without Essential Oils Is Like . . . Just Kidding, I have no idea!” THE ESSENTIAL REPOSE 114 N. Walnut St. • Jefferson, Texas 75657 (903) 841-2651 www.mydoterra.com/Texas [email protected] Shelly Loyd, Diamond WA #6341 Diffusers • Aroma Jewelry Mineral Makeup 123 N. Walnut Street Jefferson, Texas “I Have An Oil For That” 903-665-3562 Facebook: The Old Fudge Store www.JeffersonFudgeCompany.com Antiques • Collectibles • Fudge • Nostalgic Candy Unique Bottled Drinks • Gifts Serving Jefferson for 41 Years. Page 16 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JeffersonCandlelight Tour of Homes® Lavishly Decorated Historic Homes
1st Week 2nd Week Thursday, Dec. 5 Thursday, Dec. 12 Friday, Dec. 6 Friday, Dec. 13 Saturday, Dec. 7 Saturday, Dec. 14
Thursday 3 pm – 7 pm Friday and Saturday 4 pm – 8 pm
Enchanted Forest - 125 Decorated Christmas Trees Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides · Rail of Lights Train Riverboat Tours · Port Jefferson Outpost Gourmet Restaurants · Antique Gift Shops General Store · Much More!
Online: JeffersonCandlelight.com Buy Tickets Phone: 903-665-7064 $22.50 Online through Nov. 30 At Event: Murphy Building, 116 W. Austin St. $25.00 All tickets after Nov. 30 All ticket purchases are non-refundable
Jeffersonian News Full Pg Ad 2019.indd 1 3/13/19 2:16 PM Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 17 JEFFERSON’S CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES® “WINS BUCKET LIST” POLL It goes without saying that the Candlelight Tour of Homes not only Manor, The Claiborne House and The after December 2, 2019 or purchase Jefferson Christmas Candlelight Tour of provides the historically decorated homes Turner Cottage. In addition to lots of tickets when you get here. Sorry, no Homes, which will soon be celebrating but a host of other Jefferson adventures shopping choices, you won’t have to refunds after purchase. Contact us at its 38th year, is wildly popular among like our Historic Train Ride, narrated worry about food and/or lodging because jeffersoncandlelight.com or call 903- locals and thousands of faithful tourists carriage rides, the Jefferson Historic Jefferson has a host of great places to 665-7064. Come join us for our 38th alike. Where else could you visit a Museum and huge miniature electric eat and enough bed and breakfasts and Jefferson Christmas Candlelight Tour of lovely, historic little town and tour four train exhibit, our Carnegie Library (one historic downtown hotels and convenient Homes. historic homes decorated in Christmas of the few left in Texas) and the ever motels to welcome visitors who wish to finery over two weekends? Where popular walking “Ghost Tour.” Some spend the night and come back for more *The Christmas “Bucket List” survey else could you and your family walk to tourists have confirmed that they have the next day. was conducted among three of four shopping, dining, antique hunting and all even seen the ghost of Mr. Ebeneezer Tour dates are Thursdays through adult residents of Jefferson, Texas the while listening to Christmas carolers Scrooge himself. (Apparently, ghosts Saturdays, December 5-7 and 12-14. who might be members of the Historic and bathing in the glorious scents of like fudge and candy canes and they Thursday tours are from 3-7p.m. while Jefferson Foundation. Christmases past like gingerbread, sugar yawn a lot after 8 p.m.) the Friday and Saturday tours are from cookies, magically decorated fresh Sponsored by the Historic Jefferson 4-8p.m. You can order tickets online The margin for error was 0%. Christmas trees and wassail. Foundation, this year’s tour will feature through December 2, 2019 for $22.50 While the “Bucket List” poll four fabulous, historic homes: The Old each or $20.00 for groups of 15 or more. didn’t go into specifics*, the Christmas Mulberry Inn, The Manson-Denton You can also purchase tickets for $25.00
The Claiborne House 312 S. Alley The home, the home. built between The home represents the 1862 and 1866, is architectural style of the early builders a modified Greek of homes in Jefferson. It lends an air of Revival design refinement and cultural beauty as well as with a front gabled gracing Jefferson with its charm. roof. The entrance The home was built by J. B. Cole hall to the north is who sold the property to Thomas Dixon outstanding with its Sedberry in 1866, who then sold the beautiful unbroken- house to Jefferson merchant, Littleberry line staircase. A. Ellis. Ellis sold the house to Volney The high ceilings, H. Claiborne in 1871. crystal chandeliers, V. H. Claiborne was born in 1833 and original hand- in Richmond, Virginia and was the crafted molding son of Herbert A. and Delia (Haynes) add to the beauty Claiborne. His paternal grandfather, of the heart-of-pine Herbert A. Claiborne, was a Virginian floors. Wide cornice and a soldier in the Revolutionary War. moldings frame the Left an orphan, while quite young, original four-panel Claiborne, the youngest of the ten doors throughout children, was raised by his brothers. Page 18 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 “Gold fever” took him to California, but William Perry one of the first residents of 1897 and his wife, Lucy, died in period dressed docents, welcome you to the outbreak of the Civil War brought of Jefferson, in December of 1864. It is February of 1922. Both are buried in tour their home during the 37th Annual him back to Virginia. said that Lucy was the first child born in Oakwood Cemetery. Jefferson Candlelight Tour of Homes. In 1861, V. H. Claiborne was Jefferson. V. H. Claiborne and his wife, Current owners, Jerry and Ann commissioned a captain in the Lucy, had eight children, four of which LeBlanc heard about a quaint, little Texas Confederate Army, engaging in many died in infancy. town called Jefferson. Their search for battles in Mississippi and Arkansas. After the close of the Civil War, property in Jefferson resulted in their He was ordered to Jefferson where he V. H. Claiborne remained in Jefferson purchase of The Claiborne House with built a large packing plant to supply the and engaged in the drug business, then its honored storied history. They left Confederate troops with beef and bacon. engaged in farming. Later he was in the New Orleans to be part of Jefferson’s Captain Claiborne married Lucy insurance business. charm and the by-gone days when A. Perry, the daughter of Captain V. H. Claiborne died in February times were simpler. Jerry and Ann, with
Mason-Denton Home 702 E. Delta beneath the staircase. A home. Doris and Johnnie raised two carpenter’s handwritten daughters in the home, one of whom is notation states, “Saturday— the current owner. Jan and her husband Shorty Wilkerson and H. Jim retired, moved from the Gulf Coast R. Markos—September to Jefferson and performed extensive 29, 1917—3:00 p.m.” renovations to this venerable family Photographs of the original home. Even though she had briefly home confirm that the moved away, Jefferson was and still is columns on the front porch where her heart lies. were present before the move. On August 1, 1923, Jefferson was named for James Fletcher Denton Thomas Jefferson when it and his family moved from Indiana and purchased the was founded home from the Mason heirs for $2,500.00. Denton’s in the early 1840s by son, Everett, later moved Allen Urquhart to Jefferson and went into partnership with his father and Daniel Alley. in the Denton Drug Store. This two story Free Classic Victorian when it became bogged down in mud The home was inherited by home was originally a one story Greek in front of the McKay House. In those Ruby Denton from her father, James. Revival cottage built in 1852 and days, when a house was moved, all of When Ruby fell ill, she asked her niece In 1997 located on the corner of Walker and the furniture remained in the house Doris Denton Lefevers and husband Friou Streets. Judge William Henry during the moving process. Mrs. Mason Johnnie to move in and care for her until The Texas Legislature Mason, a Confederate veteran, and his didn’t want the house to stay unattended her death. In the later 1940’s and early designated wife Mollie, were the owners who had during the night so she and little Dorothy 1950’s, they rented the three bedrooms the house moved to its present location Brown spent the night in the house while upstairs to single men who worked in Jefferson the in 1916 or 1917. Mrs. Dorothy Brown it was stuck in the mud. downtown Jefferson. Many homes in Craver recalled the moving of the house Confirmation of the date of Jefferson, owned by widowed women Bed & Breakfast when she was a child. She said that the renovation and second floor expansion during that time, also rented their extra Capital of Texas! house was being pulled on logs by oxen of the home is on a board in the closet bedrooms previously used by their children who had grown up and left Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 19 Old Mulberry Inn 209 E. Jefferson Street
lawn, and a cupola Smith’s famous quote, “Trees are your (also known as the best antiques.” The acreage has towering lantern) rising thirty pecan trees, massive Bois D’Arcs, and of feet above the home course, the ancient mulberry for which from the great hall. the homestead is named. This venerable An artist rendered tree is over two hundred years old and is sky caps the lantern, currently being verified as possibly the which filters light oldest of its kind in Texas. into the center of the Old Mulberry Inn has been featured home in the day and in The New York Times, Southern Living, radiates a soft glow at the L.A.Times Magazine, Houston night. The 14-room, Chronicle, and the travel sections of 7-bath, main-house other major Texas newspapers. is 5,500 square feet Purchasing the home in January of and complemented by 2017, Glen and Lana Manchester hope two adjacent cottages, to highlight more of Jefferson’s rich True to Neoclassical architecture, Old 19th century. Its architecture features circa 1860. history. Buying surrounding properties, Mulberry Inn was blueprinted to vintage porch-steps on every side, heart-pine This homestead is situated on a the Manchester’s are working to improve perfection of the Greek revival era. The floors gracing the common areas, various tree-covered 1.4 acres of Quality Hill one of the main arteries to historical main house is stylized after the northern types of wood details throughout, a in the Historical District of Jefferson. downtown Jefferson. Louisiana plantation homesteads of the spacious veranda overlooking a generous The property brings to life Alexander Turner Cottage 210 Henderson Street
1900, the house had to be moved over turned spindles, but lacks any detailing at about 20 feet from the new right-of-way. the porch ceiling line. Original windows Research hints to the house being moved would have been typical 2 over 2 pane across the railroad tracks. This house narrow Victorian style windows with was later sold to James Wright Russell simple trim, but they have been modified International Cotton Compress for their to single pane sashes, which came into manager’s residence. The compress was vogue in the 1920’s. at that time located next door on the In the 1990’s, the Turner family added corner of Henderson and Walnut Street. some interior walls to accommodate This house is an unusual example guest restrooms, air conditioning, and of a gable front and wing style Folk closets. Pamela Rapier, the current Victorian residence having a front gable owner, purchased the home in February attached to a pyramidal form rather than of 2017, but did not move into it until a side-gabled wing. This house style June of 2018. She currently runs a is defined by the presence of Victorian successful business out of her home, decorative detailing on simple folk house and chose Jefferson as her home not This home was owned by Walter Fire Department, Oakwood Cemetery forms. The details are usually of Queen- only because of the great location in Ralph Kennon and his wife, Pauline Association, and other charitable causes. Anne or Gothic Revival inspiration. The proximity to her clients, but for the great from1893-1906, but it was not their Prior to the Kennon’s ownership, 1885- primary areas for application of this food, entertainment, and great towns residence. It was most likely used as 1906, the property was stockyards. When detailing are the porch and cornice line. people. She is currently renovating the Mr. Kennon’s feed store. Mr. Kennon the Sherman, Shreveport and Southern This house has Queen-Anne type turned house, and plans to keep the charming, served in the Civil War and was a Railway (Old East Line and Red River spindle porch supports with jigsaw quaint cottage style. generous benefactor to the Jefferson Railway) built a thirty mile extension of track from Jefferson to Waskom in corner brackets and porch railings with Page 20 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 Texas Treasures Gifts & Antiques Lafayette Gallery ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ Antiques & Collectibles VINTAGE & UNIQUE FINDS Three Floors of Vendors! All the right stuff for all the right people!
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~ 121 North Polk ~ Door Décor • Mailbox Covers • Sassafras Mats & Inserts (903)665-9000 ~ [email protected] 214 N. POLK ST. - JEFFERSON, TX 75657 903-665-3757 - Cell: 903-736-8616
Gold Leaf Antique Mall Be blessed as you come into 122 N. Polk St. • Jefferson, TX 75657 GOLD LEAF ANTIQUE MALL 122 N POLK HORIZ JEFFERSON, TX 75657 UT ED
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• F u r n i t u re D EA LE R PLATINUMTHE JEFFERS SELECTON KNIFE C DEALEROMPANY Blessings At Gold Leaf Antique Mall 903-665-2882 • Fax 903-665-2882 119 N. Polk St. Jefferson TX The Largest Selection of Case® One of the LARGESTKn iselectionves in E ofas Case®t Texa sKnives in East Texas. Made in U.S.A. since 1889 903.665.3895 Christian Books www.goldleaf-antiques.com Moisture Bar Lotion Goats Milk Soap Candles & Jewelry Designer Dog Pillows Home Decor & More Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 21
Johnson’s Ranch MaRina SINGLETON’S on mysterious Caddo Lake VIRGINIA CROSS HOUSE HOME TOURS Leave the beaten path and explore Caddo’s backwaters
Also Guided Fishing Trips and Pontoon Tours Fishing Bait, Beer, Cold Drinks & Snacks Enjoy a leisurely break on our large covered pavilion Get a panoramic view of Caddo Lake, Texas’ only natural lake At the oldest inland marina in Texas, in operation since 1908 16 miles from Jefferson www.johnsonranch.net 5131 E. Cypress Dr. Uncertain, TX 75661 903-789-3213
Jefferson, Texas . . . THERE IS ONLY ONE . . . CADDO LAKE BAYOU TOURS JEFFERSON HISTORICAL 449 Cypress Drive MUSEUM Karnack, Texas 75661 Contains 150 years of history 903-570-2169 Take a boat tour on one of the most scenic and Built in 1888 as the Federal Courthouse & Post Office mysterious lakes in the South. Caddo Lake has Texas Size Model Railroad - See the R.D. Moses 1950’s era T&P Model Railway approximately 26,000 acres of Bald Cypress trees, Art & Antiquities • Civil War Collections • Caddo Indian Artifacts • Early Pioneer Implements Spanish moss and an abundance of wildlife. You Early Texas Textiles • Children’s Toys & Dolls • Genealogy Archives will be sure to take in some memorable sights. OPEN DAILY 9:30 - 4:30 • Civil War Symposium - August 10, 2019 Caddo Lake is also only about 20 minutes • • • • •• •• • • • •• • ••• • • • • • • • ••• • • • • ••• • • • •• • • • • •• • • ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• available at any time of the day 7 days a week, The Museum of sunrise and sunset tours are also available. • • •• • • •• • • •• • •• • •• • •• • • ••• • •• ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Measurement and Time You can call Rich McFarland, 301 North Polk Street Tour Guide, at 903-570-2169, Jefferson, Texas 75657 903-665-6668 903-665-(MoMT) or email at [email protected] www.museumofmeasurementandtime.org or visit our website at www.caddolakebayoutours.com Call and book one today! Page 22 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020
Step back in time to the JAY GOULD’S PRIVATE RAILCAR opulent travel style of the rich & famous . . .
Tour tickets available at The Excelsior Hotel, Austin St. Tours start at 1:00 PM Daily (Except Sunday) Adults $5 per person Owned & Operated The Atalanta by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club Exclusive Lodging and Tour Home Beverly Bradley 4 Large Guest Suites Realtor • Elegant Suites with King Beds • In-room Jacuzzi and all amenities Brad Burris, Broker Century 21 A Select Group • Full Breakfast and Home Tour included Office: 903.938.2632 Cell: 903.930.5881 Historic MuseumExclusiveExclusive Home Lodging ToursLodging - Daily andand Tour 11a.m. Tour Home by Home Appointment Fax: 903.938.4847 Beautiful Setting for Weddings,4 Large Guest Receptions Suites and Private Parties BED & BREAKFAST 4 Large Guest Suites Circa 1872 [email protected] • Elegant Suites with King Beds • Elegant• In-room Suites Jacuzzi withand all King amenities Beds Owners Ann and Jerry LeBlanc • Full Breakfast and Home Tour included Residential • Land • Lake • 409In-room South Jacuzzi Alley and Streetall amenities 312 Alley Street • Jefferson, Texas 75657 HistoricHistoric• FullMuseum MuseumJefferson, Breakfast Home Home ToursTours and Texas Home-- DailyDaily 75657 11a.m.Tour byincluded Appointment 903-665-8800 • 903-665-0595 BeautifulBeautiful Setting Setting for for Weddings, Weddings, ReceptionsReceptions and PrivatePrivate Parties Parties 903-665-8000 for Reservations [email protected] Historic Museum409 South Home Alley StreetTours • - Jefferson, Daily 11a.m. Texas 75657 by Appointment website: houseoftheseasons.com409 South Alley Street www.claibornehousebnb.com A Select Group 903-665-8000 for Reservations • website: houseoftheseasons.com Beautiful Settingemail: for [email protected],Jefferson, Texas Receptions 75657 and Private Parties email: [email protected] for Reservations website: houseoftheseasons.com email:409 [email protected] South Alley Street Jefferson, Texas 75657 903-665-8000 for Reservations website: houseoftheseasons.com email: [email protected]
• Three beautiful log cabin lodges nestled on their own private bass lake (One with 1 queen size bed, 4 singles, 1 bath, full kitchen) (Other two with two queen size beds, 1 bath, full kitchen) • Fishing or hiking on the picturesque Busy B Ranch • Complete hunting guide service for trophy whitetail deer and exotics or bow hunts for wild hogs, ram and exotics • Perfect family gathering or “Romantic Get-Away” Located 6 miles north of Historic Jefferson 1100 W. Prospect Rd. • Jefferson, Tx. 75657 • 903/665-7448 “It’s Much More Than Just A Place To Stay” Jason & Teresa Bonner www.busybranch.com E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 23
Turning Basin Mini Cabins Riverboat Tours MESSAGE FROM CAPTAIN NANCE: at Lakeview 2019 STARTS MY 38th YEAR AS A BAYOU TOUR GUIDE: The crew and I, as always, are dedicated to giving an accurate and fun narration of Jefferson’s steamboat history on beautiful Caddo Lake along with info on the flora and wildlife along the bayou and whatever else might cross our minds. WE ALWAYS HAVE A GOOD TIME! 5344 FM 727 Adults - $10.00 • Children (12 & under) - $5.00 3 years old and under - Free Books Laura Omer Fall & Winter Schedule Gifts One Hour Narrated Tours Snacks Weekly or Daily Rates Cash or Checks No Plastic! Call for Times Weather Permitting – Extra Tours on Weekends 903-665-6129 CLOSED MID DEC. - FEB. [email protected] For reservations or Group Rates Call 903-665-2222 200 W. Bayou St. • Jefferson, Texas 75657 www.jeffersonbayoutours.com Next to Public Marina
Historic Kahn Hotel and Coffee Shop
Be a part of the activity in our newly remodeled Hotel in a Historic Downtown Building with rooms of all sizes, for any travel occasion. Private bathrooms and all the comforts and amenities of home.
Glen & Lana Manchester 209 E. Jefferson Street Jefferson, TX 75657 903/665-1945 Allow us to make your favorite [email protected] handcrafted espresso beverages, teas and smoothies. All available with our fresh Relax, Rewind & Rejuvenate homemade muffins. in one of our 9 luxurious rooms and enjoy our delectable breakfasts. 123 W. Austin St., Jefferson, Texas • 903-601-4434 • www.kahnhotel.com Page 24 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 Growing Up Jefferson By John Taylor
it was three months in the red-brick building on Lafayette Street, loads of cement up a series of switchback board after his seventy-first across from City Drug. It failed and he lost scaffolding to form the concrete supports for birthday when he all his newspaper route money. He never felt the tracks. I believe he said it took him one day passed away. I turned the same about banks from that day forward, to realize that pushing wheelbarrows full of 70 last Aug so that’s although he recognized them as a necessary evil cement would not help further his career path. definitely rattling when he started his business much later. And he gave law enforcement a try, being a around in my head. I After high school, he continued a job he deputy under Sheriff Tom Morris. Mr. Morris don’t dwell on it and had started earlier with Sedberry’s Drug Store, and he were the only law officers in Marion I’m not afraid of it, located on the corner of Polk and Lafayette County at that time, a period when the county but I am aware. Streets, where Riverport Barbecue is located was wide open with oil fields, honkytonks and Daddy was a today. It was definitely an entry level position illegal gambling. They had one patrol car and country boy before of soda jerk, delivery boy and chief custodian, no radios. If they answered a call in Smithland, he was a “townie.” actually maybe the only custodian. Those were they had to call the sheriff’s office from a Actually, he was the good old days of working “can til can’t”, resident’s phone to see if there was another call always a country seven days a week, staying open until the last to be made. And if it was in the other end of the boy, having been customer had left. I don’t imagine Mr. Sedberry county, he might have to drive an hour to get born in Mims Chapel paid above scale wages either. But, there were there. World War II ended that job, and he said in the western end benefits. When Mr. Sedberry was away, he and he actually ate better and got more rest after of Marion County, his fellow soda jerk had a routine, a highly he got drafted than when he was The Law of Texas. He never choreographed one where one stood at one end Marion County. As a boy, I asked him why we lost his love for “the of the soda fountain where the ice cream was didn’t have guns in the house since he had been woods” and outdoors and the other at the far end where the malted a deputy and a military policeman. Oh, we had in general. He milk machines were. The flipper would send a .22’s and shotguns for hunting, but never a hand My father’s name was Edward. This will attended a one-room scoop of ice cream to the flippee who caught gun. He told me it was his experience that many indirectly be about my experiences in 1950’s schoolhouse, the Johnson School in the early it in the malted milk container, with a great times hand guns made cowards of people; they and 1960’s Jefferson, but more so about his in grades. His father, Thomas Ward Taylor, was flourish added milk and flavoring, and attached would reach for a gun when other steps were the 1930’s and 1940’s. You see, he was a teller appointed Marion County sheriff about 1923 it to the machine. The fact that most of their called for resulting in a tragedy. He also told me of stories also and there were many he shared and moved the family to town. That family, soda fountain admirers were female gave added that some people weren’t responsible enough with me. My putting them on paper to share along with his mother, consisted of five sisters, impetus for a good show, I think. This attraction, to carry guns, either, and that included some of with you is simply my way of preserving them. three older and two younger. He told me when destined to be taken on the road somewhere, his law enforcement brethren. And, speaking of And I would encourage you to do the same with he was six, his sisters and he would sit on the came to a crashing end one afternoon when Mr. hunting, he didn’t deer or duck hunt. He thought your parents’ stories. I don’t intend this to be a porch and shell peas. It made him cry because Sedberry rounded the corner, entered the store they were too pretty to kill. He loved to squirrel story of regret or remorse, but one much like he was the only one that didn’t have a lap. If in mid-flip and fired them both on the spot. Dad hunt and took me along, me with my .410 and my others. It will be personal, however, so no you don’t understand that or have never shelled walked across to the street to Denton Drug, he with a .22. He was a better marksman than telling what might sneak in here. I am pretty peas, I can’t help you. But my aunts adored where the pie and cornbread sandwich shop is me, but he said you had to give the squirrels sure it’s going to be tougher for me to write my dad, and he did them. My grandfather now, was hired at a better salary and continued a chance. I just wanted to kill a squirrel. And than for you to read. But since Daddy played had been a farmer in Mims Chapel, growing to work there almost continuously until he the last time he bird hunt, he winged one and such a big part in my Growing Up Jefferson mostly sorghum as well as making syrup before entered the Army. I doubt working conditions when he found it, he said it looked up like it was experiences, I thought he deserved a chapter of receiving a steady although meager paycheck improved greatly at Denton’s, but it was a job asking him for help and that did it for him. He his own. from the county. And then came the Great when many did not have one. This job had curb lost any desire for hunting that day. Climb upon my knee, Sonny Boy—Al Jolson Depression. Many times his daddy would bring service, rain or shine, and many times he made There is a story excellently written by Nov 6 was my dad’s birthday and the day I home all he could find and afford to buy for a trip in the rain to find out the driver wanted Daddy’s childhood friend Perry Lee Chastain started notes and thoughts about how I wanted a meal, a sackful of rutabaga turnips they ate to purchase a postage stamp. And his new boss, that appeared in the Jefferson Jimplecute, to present this. I’m not totally sure if that shows for breakfast, lunch and supper. Daddy said Mr. Billingsley, insisted on staying open even if Oct 30, 1980 and reprinted in Fred Tarpley’s how slowly my mind works since this is now regularly that one day he” might go to hell for it was just for his friends who stopped in late for Jefferson: Riverport to the Southwest on pages Christmas Eve or how difficult it is to write a something, but it won’t be for eating another a visit and cup of coffee. 244 and 245. I will use some passages here from story about a loved one. I’ll go with both. We rutabaga turnip.” They were not remotely Earlier, I said he worked at Denton Drug that article as well as my recollection. Daddy lost him over thirty years ago, and I still think concerned with the pain being caused on Wall almost continuously until the war. I do know and several of his running buddies, notably Perry about him every day in some way or another. I’ll Street, but the Depression affected everyone. of two fairly short lived jobs he had that I Chastain, Rob Moseley, Roy Meisenheimer find myself using expressions he did, the same For example, Daddy had a newspaper route that suppose paid better but also had a downside. and others started their own version of a social ones I swore were corny and would never be he delivered on a bicycle, folding those papers He was on a construction crew that built club and named it “I Tappa Keg.” That might spoken by me. Or maybe I’ll find an inscription into a square suitable for sailing up on a porch the railroad overpass at the edge of town on be Latin, not sure what else it could reference. in a book –he always dated books the day he from his bicycle. I don’t recall the name of the Highway 49 East. His job, in the days before Besides the usual shenanigans one might first opened a new one. But, it might also be that bank which he frequented, but it was located construction cranes, was to push wheelbarrow associate with boys of that post high school Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 JEFFERSONIAN Page 25 age and generation, they sponsored a weekly in Pilsen, Czechoslovakia when the war ended. car was parked. Then he would head back to to them either. And I’m not sure why that was dance at the Chesterfield Club, located on the Not having enough points to immediately return the church so he and his bride could leave for difficult. That’s just the way it was. second floor of the present day Marion County home, he spent an extra couple of months in their honeymoon. It was night, and in his haste Daddy had always joked he wanted to live Courthouse Annex, entertainment provided by Bamberg, Germany during the early days of the and probable anxiety, he forgot the back stairs to be one hundred and shot by a jealous husband. Emmett Cooper’s Trio. Since that was all they occupation. Of course, the war was still going had been removed for later replacement. He It was not to be. His last year on Earth was could afford and Perry Lee had access to printing on in Japan early that summer and Daddy’s 97th dropped straight down ten feet, still carrying hard—surgery, multiple hospitalizations, his machines and posters, they kept the audience Infantry Division was scheduled to be in the his suitcase, and thankfully didn’t sustain any withdrawal and probable depression. Christmas happy by keeping the same band but changing invasion. And, if so, your Growing Up Jefferson major injuries. He said he remembered thinking came late that last time. The hometown football their name on the weekly advertisements. writer would probably have been someone all the way down how was he going to explain it team won state that year and the season lasted For example, one week they were Cooper’s whose dad was not in on the Japanese invasion. to my mother. for sixteen weeks, the championship game Cavaliers, then Houston Harmony Hounds, He and Mama were really anxious to get some My story is titled Sonny Boy and there’s a being played on the Saturday before Christmas. Milwaukee Melody Makers, and Mississippi news that he wouldn’t have to do that. So they reason. One of the earliest and fondest memories That doesn’t leave a lot of time for getting in Mudcats. Now to get to those dances, Daddy went to a fortune teller in Longview. I’ll call of my Dad was him singing that song to me. I the Spirit of Christmas. He and my Uncle Drue had access to a 1933 Buick, one of those big him Red and he was very popular with young couldn’t have been much more than three years Hellums, Daddy’s sister Louise’s husband, ones with suicide doors. Look those up if you couples at that time. When they asked Red if old. Some of the words were, “Climb upon my listened to each game on the radio. He would don’t understand the term. For providing rides he would have to go to Japan, Red astutely told knee, Sonny Boy; Though you’re only three, get out of bed long enough to hear those games to as many as nine couples at a time, he became them that Daddy would approach the water Sonny Boy; You’ve no way of knowing, There’s and he reveled in the Bulldogs’ victories, being known as the Exalted Sage of the group. His but would not cross. After his leave was over, no way of showing; What you mean to me, a former Bulldog himself and a lifelong football friends told him if he would install a machine he was sent to Ft. Bragg, North Carolina to Sonny Boy.” And then I’d climb up on his knee fan. When they would win, Uncle Drue said gun rack, it would qualify as a gangster’s hit continue training for the invasion. While there, and he’d hug me. Daddy had a beautiful singing Daddy would slap his knee as he always did wagon. And if it were a foot longer, he would the bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and voice as did all his sisters. He sang at events when something delighted him and then he need to convert it into a hook-and-ladder. With Nagasaki and the war ended. So he thought. He of all kinds, weddings and funerals. He used to would go back to bed. He gamely tried to enjoy the car full of people, Daddy would then wheel soon found himself on the west coast, boarding joke that at his funeral we would probably have that Christmas, but he was too weak to stay up up to the service station and shout out to the a troop ship, headed for Japan to be part of the to rent someone to sing, his pall bearers and long. attendant, “Fill her up!” and discreetly hold two occupation force as a military policeman. While maybe the attendees. That was hardly the case. That last time I saw Daddy he was in a fingers alongside the driver’s door, indicating in Manila, he mailed a postcard to one of his The Methodist Church he attended was full gown in a hospital bed. And I realized this man he really wanted two gallons. They were poor, friends in Jefferson that said something like to overflowing with mourners even standing who had been so strong all my life was never overworked and underpaid, but they had jobs this. “That s.o.b. Red told me I would approach outside to pay their respects. going to get out of that bed, go home and get and were determined to have a good time in a the water but wouldn’t cross. This sure doesn’t Maybe all the stories he gave me were well. We visited and said the things you say to bleak situation. look like Caddo Lake to me. It’s over my head more than entertainment; maybe they were loved ones the last time, and then he surprised After trying to join every branch of the in places.” And there he stayed until June, 1946, to serve as life lessons. There were things he me. He said, “I’m really proud of you….and service and being rejected for flat feet, he was came home, went back to work just as all the had experienced and learned on perseverance, I love you.” I told him I loved him, too and drafted in Mar, 1942. By the Army and for other heroes returning did, and went about their making the best of bad situations, optimism, he had been a wonderful dad. And it wasn’t the Infantry. Makes sense. But serve he did business quietly building America and raising being a gentleman, and having compassion difficult for us to say after all. That, I think, was for four years. Mama and he were married on young families. for all things living. And I experienced them the final lesson he had for me that Feb night: July 1, 1941 and spent their first anniversary As I said, Mama and Daddy married in all, much as he had. Like most of my friends, Don’t wait to tell those you love that you do. together in 1946. While a lot of his postings July, 1941. After the wedding, Daddy’s best however, when dealing with that emotion called Because sometimes Christmas comes late, and were in California preparing for the invasion man carried him back to the Denton house on love, I was pretty much on my own. I loved my sometimes not at all. of Japan, the Army decided sometime in late Delta Street where he was renting a room. The parents and they loved me because that was 1944 that the war in Europe wasn’t wrapping plan, or at least the way I remember it being the way it was supposed to be. Sadly, thinking up quite as quickly as previously expected. So told to me, was for Daddy to go upstairs to his about it, if I ever heard the phrase “I love you” his infantry division was sent to Europe in Mar, room from the front, get his suitcase and go out issued by Mama or Daddy during my childhood, 1945, crossed the Rhine at Dusseldorf and were the back door to the driveway where his own I don’t remember it. I don’t remember saying it
Ken Tomlinson John Taylor A lot more than just studs! 1740 US Hwy 59 South, Jefferson, TX 75657 Phone: (903) 665-8860 • Fax: (903) 665-8886 Page 26 JEFFERSONIAN Spring 2019 / Winter 2020 2019 JEFFERSONIAN INDEX LIST
LODGING: * Excelsior House...... 13 * Azalea Inn Bed & Breakfast...... 13 * House of the Seasons...... 22 * Bessie’s Landing Bed & Breakfast...... 13 * Jay Gould’s Private Railcar – The Atalanta...... 22 * Braley’s Bungalow...... 13 * Jefferson Historical Museum...... 21 * Busy B Ranch...... 22 * Made in the Shade Kayak & Canoe Rentals...... 15 * Claiborne House Bed & Breakfast...... 22 * Singleton’s Virginia Cross House Home Tours...... 21 * Excelsior House...... 13 * The Museum of Measurement and Time...... 21 * Historic Kahn Hotel...... 23 * Turning Basin Riverboat Tours...... 23 * House of the Seasons Bed & Breakfast...... 18 CHURCHES: * Old Mulberry Inn & Cottages...... 23 * Christ Episcopal Church...... 9 * Mini Cabins at Lakeview on Caddo Lake...... 23 * Cumberland Presbyterian Church...... 9 DINING: * Immaculate Conception Catholic Church...... 9 * Kitt’s Kornbread Sandwich & Pie Bar...... 10 CONFERENCE & MEETING FACILITIES: * McGarity’s Saloon...... 14 * Jefferson Carnegie Library...... 5 * Port Jefferson Outpost...... 14 * The Jeffersonian Institute...... 12 * Riverbend Restaurant...... 10 EDUCATION: * Riverport BBQ...... 9 * Jefferson Carnegie Library...... 5 * The KnightLight Tavern...... 9 WEDDING VENUES: COFFEE SHOP: * Cumberland Presbyterian Church...... 9 * Historic Kahn Hotel & Coffee Shop...... 23 * Excelsior House...... 13 SHOPPING: * Jefferson Carnegie Library...... 5 * Blessings...... 20 * The Jeffersonian Institute...... 12 * City Drug...... 15 FINANCIAL: * Gold Leaf Antiques...... 20 * Edward Jones – Joey Romano...... 9 * Jefferson Fudge Store...... 15 REAL ESTATE: * Jefferson General Store...... 2 * Century 21 A Select Group – Beverly Bradley...... 22 * Lafayette Gallery...... 20 * Jefferson Realty...... 12 * Made in the Shade...... 15 CONTRACTORS & BUILDING SUPPLIES: * Port Jefferson Outpost...... 14 * R & W Builders...... 12 * Texas Tees...... 20 * Trico Lumber...... 25 * Texas Treasures...... 20 ABSRACT & TITLE CO. * The Essential Repose...... 15 * Port Jefferson Abstract & Title Co...... 12 * Yesteryear Gift Shop & Classy Glitz Boutique...... 14 BAIL BONDS: TELEVISION: * Bulldog Bail Bonds...... 25 * KTAL CHANNEL 6...... 5 SPECIAL EVENTS: ATTRACTIONS: * Battle for Jefferson Civil War Re-enactment...... 28 * Billy Carter’s Caddo Guide Service & Go-Devil Tours. 21 * Jefferson Candlelight Tour of Homes...... 17 - 19 * Caddo Lake Bayou Tours...... 21 * 73rd Historical Jefferson Pilgrimage Tour of Homes...... 6-7 WELCOME TO HISTORIC JEFFERSON, TEXAS
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ine ine ea s a e 134 The Turner Cottage 13 210 Henderson St. 6 o eymore am s o n i y ress ayo Jefferson’s nineteenth Annual
May 3, 4 and 5, 2019 In Historic Jefferson, Texas Featuring 2 Full Scale Battles with Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery
S OPEN TO TH ALL EVENT E PUBLIC
Period Encampments • Downtown Skirmish • String Band Jam • Grand Ball
For More Information: 903-733-1035 or Facebook – Battle for Jefferson
Save the Date: May 1-3, 2020
Largest Civil War re-enactment in Texas, where the one-time “King of Spades” riverport becomes a palette for living history throughout the downtown historic district and at Cypress River Ranch. Sponsored by the Historic Jefferson Foundation . Produced by an all-volunteer committee and the re-enactors affiliated with the Trans-Mississippi Volunteer Infantry Photos provided by Heavenly Reflections Photography