National Register Listing

Sessums-James House

a.k.a. Alexander Sessums--William James House

3802 Spencer, Houston, TX
The Sessums-James House, c. 1894, is an excellent local example of a vernacular L-plan residence with Queen Anne influences. Significant for its size, quality of construction, and detailing, this house yields important architectural and archaeological information about the economic growth and development of Houston's African-American community during the late 19th century. The house was named for its first and second owners, the John Sessums family and the William James family, prominent members of Houston's African-American community. John Sessums was a skilled carpenter and also a founding member and leader of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, one of the earliest African-American churches and congregations in Houston. His oldest son, also named John, was one of the earliest, and the only, African-American member of the Houston Light Guard, an elite militia organization founded in 1873 by Houston's most prestigious and prominent political and business leaders. The quality of construction along with the interior and exterior detailing of the house indicate that the Sessums men were closely involved with the construction and architectural characteristics of the house. For its reflection of the economic growth and development of Houston's African American community during the late 19th and early 20th century, and for its associations with John Sessums Jr., the property meets Criteria A and B in the area of Ethnic Heritage (Black) at the local level of significance. As a well-preserved vernacular interpretation of a late 19th-century Queen Anne residence built by an African American, the house also meets Criterion C in the area of Architecture at the local level of significance. Its continual use as a residence, along with the relatively undisturbed condition of the property surrounding the house could reveal information about early African-American building materials and construction techniques, as well as yield crucial insights into residential yard space usage by Houston's early African-American communities, therefore supporting Criterion D in the area of Archeology (Historic: Non-Aboriginal), also at the local level of significance.
Local significance of the building:
Black; Architecture; Historic - Non-aboriginal

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

ethnic heritage black architecture non-aboriginal houses residential buildings
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Harris County in Texas has a significant history that shaped its growth and importance. Established in 1837, the county was named after John Richardson Harris, founder of the first settlement, Harrisburg. Houston, the county seat, became a prominent commercial and shipping center due to its strategic location and railroads.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.

Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.

Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.

With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Harris County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.

  • 1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.

  • 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.

  • 1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.

  • 19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.

  • 20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.

  • 1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.

  • Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.