Whitaker House

The Whitaker House is an excellent example of late Victorian architecture and was built by Benjamin F. Whitaker prior to 1890. Whitaker was also a prominent figure in the commercial growth of Texarkana and took an active part in state politics. The home has been known as a local showplace from as early as 1904. The house is of irregular plan with multiple gables. Decorative brackets adorn the cornices of the roof and porches. The gables are highly carved - some have small round-arched stained glass windows and others have stained glass fanlights. The cypress siding is interrupted by imbricated shingles which form a beltcourse. Italian slate and marble mantles with gold leaf trim, a carved free-standing staircase, a carbide gas lighting system, and Eastlake influenced carving of walnut woodwork throughout the house indicate the interior quality. These elaborate architectural elements are excellent examples of late Victorian detailing, making the Whitaker house a prime example of the period as it was realized in Texas before 1890. The original owner, Benjamin Whitaker, was born in Bowie Co., Texas and moved from his family plantation to Texarkana in 1877. The house was probably begun shortly after his arrival; however loss of court records make confirmation impossible. Here he entered the lumber business with his brother, W.L. Whitaker. These two brothers invested their money to build the first two bridges across the Red River to facilitate a railroad. The bridges became part of the Kansas City Southern Line, which was one of the greatest commercial arteries of business to come to Texarkana. Benjamin Whitaker also served in the Texas Legislature in 1893 under Gov. James S. Hogg and again in 1895 under Gov. CA. Culberson. By 1904 Bryant Hargett, Sheriff of Bowie Co., lived in the house. During this time a "souvenir" book featured the Whitaker House as the showplace of Texarkana. The house remains as a residence.