Todd-McKay-Wheat House
Historical marker location:Todd-McKay-Wheat House
Originally constructed before the Civil War and modified during the 1880s and again in 1909, this house is significant for its historical associations and for its representation as an evolutionary house form.
In 1856, Mary Britt bought the property and married Judge William S. Todd, later a signer of the 1861 ordinance of secession. Although it is possible a structure was on the site when she purchased it. The increase in value at the time the Todds sold the property in 1858 points to construction of a house here during their ownership.
North Carolina native Gilchrist McKay, also a signer of the secession ordinance, purchased the property from the Todds after he moved to Marshall to establish a law practice. During his service in the Confederate army, he was captured at Arkansas Post, imprisoned at Camp Chase (Ohio) and killed in the 1864 Battle of Mansfield. The house was sold in 1869 as part of his estate.
After a series of subsequent owners, Naomi and William Wheat purchased the home. It was most likely during their ownership (1880-1888) that the two-story, full-length front porch with turned wood posts and jig-sawn brackets was added, in keeping with the Victorian tastes of the time.
In 1909, Oscar Brown purchased the house and added a one-story section to the southeast corner. An engineer for the Texas and Pacific Railroad, Brown and his family resided here until 1926 and then leased the house until selling it in 1970.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2001
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
During the mid-19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the development of Texas. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in 1930 brought prosperity and growth to the county. This led to the establishment of several oil companies, driving economic development and creating job opportunities for local residents.
Harrison County was also deeply impacted by slavery and the Civil War. Prior to the war, the county was home to numerous large plantations that relied on enslaved labor for agricultural production. The war left a lasting impact on the county, which continued to struggle with racial tensions and inequality in the years following the war.
Today, Harrison County remains an important part of Texas history and boasts a diverse and vibrant community. The county is home to a number of historic sites, including the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot and the W.C. Dewberry Home and Museum, which showcase the area's rich cultural heritage. With its blend of history and modern progress, Harrison County continues to be a significant contributor to the growth and development of Texas.
Harrison County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Harrison County, Texas.
- 1839 - Harrison County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- 1840 - Marshall becomes the county seat of Harrison County
- 1861-1865 - Harrison County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War
- 1873 - Great Fire of Marshall destroys much of the city
- 1881 - First telephone exchange established in Marshall
- 1902 - Texas and Pacific Railway brings economic growth to the county
- 1930s - Oil discovery leads to an economic boom in Harrison County
- 1979 - East Texas Oil Museum opens in Kilgore, showcasing the region's oil industry
- 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county
- 2020 - Present day