McFaddin–Ward House facts for kids
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McFaddin House Complex
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McFaddin–Ward House in 2007
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 McFaddin House Complex
Location in Texas
McFaddin House Complex
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1906 McFaddin St., Beaumont, Texas |
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| Area | 9.9 acres (4.0 ha) |
| Built | 1906 |
| Architect | Henry Conrad Mauer |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 71000942 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | January 25, 1971 |
The McFaddin–Ward House is a beautiful old home in Beaumont, Texas, United States. It was built in 1906 in a grand style called Beaux-Arts Colonial Revival. This large house, about 12,800 square feet, and all its original furniture show how a very important family lived for 75 years. Today, it is a museum where you can learn about history. The house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
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The McFaddin Family Home
The house was first ordered by Di Vernon Averill. However, she sold it the very next year to her brother, William P.H. McFaddin. William and his wife, Ida Caldwell McFaddin, moved into the house in 1907. They brought their three children with them: Mamie, who was 11, Perry Jr., who was 9, and James Caldwell, who was 6.
Life at the House
In the same year, a large building called a carriage house was added. This building was very useful. It had a stable for horses and a hayloft for their food. It also had a garage for cars and a gym for exercise. There were even living spaces for the people who worked for the family.
When the McFaddins' daughter, Mamie, married Carroll Ward in 1919, the newlyweds moved in with her parents. They lived in the McFaddin–Ward House for their entire married lives. This means the house was truly a family home for many years.
A Museum for Everyone
Before Mamie McFaddin Ward passed away in 1982, she had a special idea. She created a foundation to keep the house safe and open to the public as a museum. The museum officially opened its doors in 1986.
Visiting the Museum
If you are 8 years old or older, you can take a tour of the home. Friendly volunteer guides lead these tours from Tuesday through Saturday. It is a good idea to make a reservation because tours usually last about one to one and a half hours. On Sundays, you can explore the first floor of the house on your own.
The carriage house and the beautiful outdoor areas are open to visitors of all ages during museum hours. Outside the three-floor home, you will find large green lawns, colorful flower beds, and lovely rose gardens.
Inside the House
Inside the McFaddin–Ward House, you can see a huge collection of old furniture and household items. What makes this museum special is that most of the items are the original ones that belonged to the McFaddin family. This means you get to see how they really lived! It is one of the few house museums where the original furnishings are still there. It is also one of the few homes built in the Beaux-Arts Colonial style that you can visit.
Educational Programs and Events
The museum offers many educational programs. These programs focus on history and are designed for both children and adults. You can attend interesting talks, special celebrations, and even summer camps. The museum also hosts open houses where everyone is welcome.
Special Celebrations
New exhibits and displays are often changed. This keeps the museum fresh and offers new ways to understand the home's history. Christmas time is especially festive at the McFaddin–Ward House. They have special events and an open house. During this time, visitors can enjoy eggnog and taste old McFaddin family recipes before touring the first floor of the house.
Recognition and Features
The McFaddin–Ward House is not just a local treasure. It was named a Texas State Historic Landmark in 1976. The home has also been featured on TV shows, like Arts & Entertainment's "America's Castles." It was highlighted as a "Lone Star Estate," one of only three Texas homes to be shown. The house has also been included in several important books about architecture.
See also
