National Register Listing

Johnson, Charles, House

301 E. 35th St., Houston, TX
The Charles Johnson House (c. 1915) is a representative example of an early 20th-century vernacular L-plan form similar to many houses in Independence Heights. Charles Johnson, also known as "Charlie," was one of three icemen who provided an important service to residents of Independence Heights as early as 1915 through the 1920s. Typical of many Independence Heights businesses, Johnson operated the delivery service out of his home.

The Charles Johnson House (c.1915) is among the earliest houses in Independence Heights and one of the most intact examples of the L-plan vernacular form. As lots were sold in Independence Heights, some new homeowners selected traditional forms for construction. Johnson probably used one of the local builders from Independence Heights who was familiar with this form. The Johnson family and subsequent owners have maintained the property making it one of the most intact examples in the community.

Charles Johnson, known locally as "Charlie," operated one of three ice delivery businesses in Independence Heights. During the early part of the century, ice was an important commodity that facilitated the refrigeration of food items. As is typical of many small black businesses, ice delivery required small investments and little overhead expenses making it an ideal small business to operate out of the home. Likewise, the nature of ice required frequent and repeated service to clients thereby insuring a regular business income. Johnson is remembered as the most successful and probably earliest of the icemen in Independence Heights.

The Charles Johnson House retains sufficient integrity to represent the vernacular L-plan form and demonstrate the Ethnic Heritage of the early 20th century.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Black

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1997.

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.

architecture ethnic heritage black houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.