Beaumont - Texas

Beaumont, Texas is about a 4 1/2 hrs RV drive from San Antonio.   It is a very pretty city and very green as a result of recent and continuing rain.  On January 10, 1901, a 100 - foot geyser know as Lucas Gusher launched the Texas oil industry. To know how this event transformed this city there are several museums which provide this history.  There are several homes of some of the pioneers and prominent residents all of whom helped shape Beaumont.
One such elegant home is the Mc Fadddin - Ward House.  This 12, 8000 sq ft home was built between 1905/06 in the Beaux -Arts Colonial Revival Style. 

 

The furnishings reflect the lifestyle of the prominent family who lived in this house for 75 years.

 On the other hand here is the home of John Jay French who was a successful tanner and trader and demonstrates the  life of a prosperous Texan pioneer family from 1845 - 1865.   This is the oldest house in Beaumont that has been restored to its original state.  It is one of the first 2 story homes, and the first made with milled lumber.  It was one of the first homes to be painted in the area.

Such a contrast in furniture between the two homes.  

So much to see and do.  Next blog will be Baton Rouge.



Beverley and Ross