Michaux Park Historic District
Roughly bounded by S. Michaux St., Jolly St., Crokett Rd., Rogers St., and E Park Ave., Palestine, TXThe Michaux Park Historic District is an important local neighborhood containing Palestine's largest and best
preserved concentration of early- to mid-20th century domestic resources and reflects land division and architectural patterns representative of Palestine development prior to 1955. Primarily residential, the district contains four subdivisions and three additional areas not formally platted that include differing block sizes but similar lot dimensions and large, medium and small one-, two- and 2 '/2-story wood-clad and brick veneer dwellings of considerable architectural diversity and quality. Characterized by bungalow plans and revival style domestic and domestic auxiliary buildings, the district also contains one 19th century dwellings and a ca. 1910 Classical Revival influenced residence as well as Craftsman and Ranch style residences. Over time, a church, school, institutional and limited commercial uses were added. City-funded and private development of infrastructure such as paved streets and utility systems further supported district development. Unifying the district are lot sizes of similar dimensions, consistent setbacks and gardens featuring lawn, trees and shrubs. Subdivided by two individuals connected to the Micheaux family, who homesteaded the area, thedistrict developed over a period of about 50 years during which Palestine experienced sustained economic growth supported by agriculture, transportation, manufacturing and the petroleum industry. Historic resources reflect national architectural trends and the tastes and budgets of the property owners, architects and builders involved in construction.
The district retains high levels of integrity of location, setting, materials, design, workman-ship, feeling and association within the period of significance and is maintained in good condition. The district conveys not only the architectural heritage of the ca. 1895 to 1953 era, but represents the growth Palestine experienced resulting from sustained prosperity . For these reasons the Michaux Park Historic District is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criteria A and C at the local level of significance. Of the district's 531 resources 306 retain their integrity; most Noncontributing resources are altered historic dwellings and auxiliary features such as garages and garage apartments and non-historic carports. Noncontributing historic dwellings are typically so rendered by incompatible additions and changes to windows and siding, many of which could be reversed. The district is worthy of preservation as a highly intact landmark neighborhood that through its residential function documents development patterns in southeast Palestine and interprets local social and architectural trends between ca. 1895 and 1953.
Local significance of the district:
preserved concentration of early- to mid-20th century domestic resources and reflects land division and architectural patterns representative of Palestine development prior to 1955. Primarily residential, the district contains four subdivisions and three additional areas not formally platted that include differing block sizes but similar lot dimensions and large, medium and small one-, two- and 2 '/2-story wood-clad and brick veneer dwellings of considerable architectural diversity and quality. Characterized by bungalow plans and revival style domestic and domestic auxiliary buildings, the district also contains one 19th century dwellings and a ca. 1910 Classical Revival influenced residence as well as Craftsman and Ranch style residences. Over time, a church, school, institutional and limited commercial uses were added. City-funded and private development of infrastructure such as paved streets and utility systems further supported district development. Unifying the district are lot sizes of similar dimensions, consistent setbacks and gardens featuring lawn, trees and shrubs. Subdivided by two individuals connected to the Micheaux family, who homesteaded the area, thedistrict developed over a period of about 50 years during which Palestine experienced sustained economic growth supported by agriculture, transportation, manufacturing and the petroleum industry. Historic resources reflect national architectural trends and the tastes and budgets of the property owners, architects and builders involved in construction.
The district retains high levels of integrity of location, setting, materials, design, workman-ship, feeling and association within the period of significance and is maintained in good condition. The district conveys not only the architectural heritage of the ca. 1895 to 1953 era, but represents the growth Palestine experienced resulting from sustained prosperity . For these reasons the Michaux Park Historic District is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criteria A and C at the local level of significance. Of the district's 531 resources 306 retain their integrity; most Noncontributing resources are altered historic dwellings and auxiliary features such as garages and garage apartments and non-historic carports. Noncontributing historic dwellings are typically so rendered by incompatible additions and changes to windows and siding, many of which could be reversed. The district is worthy of preservation as a highly intact landmark neighborhood that through its residential function documents development patterns in southeast Palestine and interprets local social and architectural trends between ca. 1895 and 1953.
Community Planning And Development; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2004.
About National Register Listings
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.
Texas is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
About Anderson County
Anderson County Timeline
Anderson County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was established in 1846 and was named after Kenneth L. Anderson, a veteran of the Texas Revolution. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, before European settlers arrived.
The county's economy flourished with the arrival of immigrants from the United States and Europe, who established plantations and worked in the timber industry. The town of Palestine, the county seat, developed as a vibrant agricultural center, known for its cotton production. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economic growth. However, Anderson County also had its share of challenges.
Like many other areas of Texas, it witnessed tensions and conflicts during the American Civil War, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Reconstruction was a difficult period for the county, as it endured economic decline and political instability.
In the 20th century, Anderson County experienced significant changes and modernization. The discovery of oil reserves in the early 1930s brought economic prosperity to the region. The establishment of the Texas Department of Corrections in the county in 1849 also played a major role in shaping the county's history, as it became home to several state prisons and correctional facilities. Today, Anderson County is known for its diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
The region's rich history is evident in its numerous historic sites and landmarks, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Texas history and culture.
The county's economy flourished with the arrival of immigrants from the United States and Europe, who established plantations and worked in the timber industry. The town of Palestine, the county seat, developed as a vibrant agricultural center, known for its cotton production. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economic growth. However, Anderson County also had its share of challenges.
Like many other areas of Texas, it witnessed tensions and conflicts during the American Civil War, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Reconstruction was a difficult period for the county, as it endured economic decline and political instability.
In the 20th century, Anderson County experienced significant changes and modernization. The discovery of oil reserves in the early 1930s brought economic prosperity to the region. The establishment of the Texas Department of Corrections in the county in 1849 also played a major role in shaping the county's history, as it became home to several state prisons and correctional facilities. Today, Anderson County is known for its diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
The region's rich history is evident in its numerous historic sites and landmarks, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Texas history and culture.
Anderson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Anderson County, Texas.
- 1836: Anderson County is established on March 24, 1836, as one of the original counties of the Republic of Texas.
- 1838: The town of Palestine is established as the county seat of Anderson County.
- 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, the county's economy is severely affected, and many locals serve in the Confederate Army.
- Late 1800s: The arrival of the railroad in Palestine brings growth and development to Anderson County, making it an important transportation hub.
- Early 1900s: The discovery of oil in the area leads to an economic boom, with various oil fields and refineries being established.
- 1930-1940: The Great Depression and the drought of the 1930s bring significant challenges to Anderson County, leading to decreased economic activity and population decrease.
- Late 20th century: Anderson County experiences shifts in its economy with the decline of the oil industry. Agriculture becomes an important sector, with the county known for its timber, poultry, and cattle production.
- 2000s: Anderson County continues to strive for economic growth and development, focusing on diversified industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.