Historical Marker

Julius Lichtenstein House

Historical marker location:
1513 N Chaparral, Heritage Park, Corpus Christi, Texas
( Heritage Park, 1513 North Chaparral, Corpus Christi)
Marker installed: 1976
Marker size: 27" x 42"

This was a merchant's residence of the early 1900s. Born in Indianola, Julius Lichtenstein (1871-1923) was three when his family moved to Corpus Christi and opened a drygoods store in 1874. From childhood, he worked in the store that in time became the noted M. Lichtenstein and Sons, a prestigious business relied upon in South Texas. Several Weil family members also joined the firm, and in 1902 Julius Lichtenstein married Carrie Weil (1877-1958). After the death in 1904 of his father, Moritz Lichtenstein, Julius was head of the firm. His duties frequently sent him on visits to the East, where he apparently acquired a liking for architecture that contrasted with the Victorian forms usually seen in this region.

Julius and Carrie Lichtenstein built this house in 1905 at 715 North Chaparral. The style is Colonial Revival, in a trend popularized by architect Stanford White of New York. Elegant as this structure was--with its stately front door, elliptical porch, peaked roof and other handsome features--the Lichtensteins built and moved into a larger house in 1913, owning this place, however, until 1926. Moved nine blocks north in 1929, this structure, survivor of many fads, stands as an exhibit of a distinctive housing style.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1976

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.

Colonial Revival (architectural style) houses residential buildings markets, mercantiles
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
Texas random facts
Nueces County, located in southern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area first saw human habitation thousands of years ago, with Native American tribes such as the Karankawa and Coahuiltecan peoples inhabiting the region. European exploration of the area began in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers claiming the land for the Spanish crown. However, it wasn't until the early 18th century that the first permanent settlements were established.

In 1828, the Mexican government granted land to Colonel Henry Lawrence Kinney, an American entrepreneur, who founded the trading post of Kinney's Trading Post near the Nueces River. This marked the beginning of Anglo settlement in the area. Nueces County was officially established in 1846, following the Texas Revolution and subsequent annexation of Texas by the United States.

Throughout the 19th century, Nueces County played a significant role in Texas' development. The town of Corpus Christi, which served as the county seat, became an important regional trade center due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The county flourished as a shipping hub for livestock, cotton, and other agricultural goods.

The county's history was greatly influenced by its participation in several military conflicts. During the American Civil War, Corpus Christi served as a center for Confederate forces, and the county witnessed both Union and Confederate occupation. Additionally, the county played an important role during World War II, with Corpus Christi becoming a major training center for Navy pilots.

In recent times, Nueces County has continued to grow and evolve. The county's economy has diversified, with tourism, oil and gas, and the military being major contributors. The region boasts numerous attractions, including beautiful coastal beaches, cultural sites, and a vibrant culinary scene. Today, Nueces County remains an important and thriving part of Texas' history and economy.

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

  • 1836 - Nueces County is established as one of the original counties in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1845 - Texas becomes a state of the United States, and Nueces County remains part of the state.
  • 1848 - The county seat is established in Corpus Christi.
  • 1850 - The population of Nueces County reaches 756 residents.
  • 1852 - The Corpus Christi Cathedral is constructed, becoming a significant landmark in the county.
  • 1872 - The railroad reaches Nueces County, leading to increased economic development and population growth.
  • 1875 - The Nueces County Courthouse, built in the Renaissance Revival style, is completed.
  • 1900 - A devastating hurricane strikes the county, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1914 - The Port of Corpus Christi is established, becoming a major hub for trade and industry.
  • 1931 - The Nueces County Courthouse is expanded and remodeled to its current appearance.
  • 1940 - Nueces County experiences a population boom, with the county's residents totaling over 101,000.
  • 1987 - Hurricane Gilbert causes widespread destruction in Nueces County and the surrounding areas.
  • Present - Nueces County continues to be a thriving center for commerce, industry, and tourism.