Jefferson Ordnance Magazine facts for kids
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Jefferson Ordnance Magazine
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Jefferson Ordnance Magazine in 2009
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 Jefferson Ordnance Magazine
Location in Texas
Jefferson Ordnance Magazine
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Jefferson, Texas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1863 |
| Architectural style | Military powder magazine |
| NRHP reference No. | 95000102 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | February 17, 1995 |
The Jefferson Ordnance Magazine is an old building in Jefferson, Texas, United States. It is located a short distance northeast of the US-59B road crossing the Big Cypress Bayou waterway. This historic site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995, recognizing its importance.
Contents
What is the Jefferson Ordnance Magazine?
The Jefferson Ordnance Magazine was a special building used during the American Civil War (1861-1865). It was a 'powder magazine,' which means it was a safe place to store gunpowder and other military supplies. This building was important for the Confederate army in the region.
A Rare Piece of History
Many people believe this magazine is very unique.
- Some tour guides and railway operators say it's the only Confederate powder magazine left from the 1860s. However, this might not be completely true, as some forts still have their magazines. For example, the Confederate Powderworks in Georgia also has surviving magazines.
- A group called the Historic Jefferson Foundation says it's the only Confederate powder house still standing in Texas. They also say it's one of only a few left in the entire U.S.
- The Texas Historical Commission, a state history group, calls it "the most intact example in East Texas of a Civil War era brick ordnance magazine." This means it's the best-preserved building of its kind in that part of Texas.
How Old is This Building?
The magazine was built in late 1863 or early 1864. It is still in amazing condition today! About 90 percent of the building is original. It looks almost the same as it did when it was first built, except for some natural aging of the bricks. Two smaller buildings that were once nearby have been taken apart.
Who Owns the Magazine Today?
The Historic Jefferson Foundation owns the Jefferson Ordnance Magazine and the land it sits on. The land around the magazine is private, so you can't just drive up to it.
How Can You See It?
Today, there are two main ways to see this historic building:
- You can ride the Jefferson and Cypress Bayou Railway.
- You can take the Turning Basin Riverboat Tour.
Both of these are popular attractions in Jefferson, Texas.
