Historical Marker

Daniel-Merriwether House

Historical marker location:
712 Julia Street, Kennard, Texas
( From SH 7 east in the City of Kennard, take a left on Julia Street and go .2 tenths of a mi. The street dead ends at the Daniel-Rowe House.)
Marker installed: 2013
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

Isaac Adair “Ike” Daniel (1864-1924) was a prominent businessman and politician in the Kennard and Crockett area. He held the office of sheriff in Houston County from 1892 to 1894 and owned real estate and a variety of businesses such as a general store, gristmill, cotton gin and sawmill. Among his business ventures, Daniel helped build a telephone line from Crockett to Coltharp and opened a large mercantile store in Kennard, selling everything from farm and ranch equipment to home goods and funeral supplies. He also served as a representative of the Texas legislature from 1905 to 1907, 1907 to 1909, and 1920 to 1921. In January 1905, Ike Daniel married Ruth King (1875-1966). That same year, he purchased one acre of land from the Louisiana and Texas Lumber Company and began construction of this home.

Built with pine lumber from the 4C Mill, this early Victorian farmhouse served as the Daniel home until 1909 when the Daniels sold the property and moved to Crockett. In 1912, James Creath “Jim” Merriwether (1881-1975) and his wife, Georgia Brown Merriwether (1886-1968), purchased the property and made it their home for over fifty years. The home at that time consisted of four large bedrooms, two large open-hearth fireplaces, a high-pitched roof and a wide wrap-around porch that encircled the east and south sides. In addition to the house, the property contained a smoke house, several barns and corncribs, and two garages. Many of the original features of the home including the gingerbread trim and the outbuildings remain. This historic home is a testament to the early development of Kennard

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.

Elected officials
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
Texas random facts
Houston County, Texas, located in the eastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area that is now Houston County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Atakapa, who lived off the lands and waterways. However, the first European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 19th century, sparking a new chapter in the region's history.

In 1838, Houston County was officially established and named after Sam Houston, a prominent figure in the Texas Revolution and later the Republic of Texas. The county became a focal point during this time, with numerous conflicts between settlers and Native American tribes, as well as various clashes involving Mexican troops.

During the mid-19th century, Houston County experienced rapid growth and development, as many settlers were attracted to the area's fertile soil and abundant natural resources. Immigrants from various European countries, such as Germany and Austria, arrived in large numbers, contributing to the cultural diversity of the county. Additionally, the construction of railroads in the late 1800s played a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and connecting Houston County to neighboring regions.

In the 20th century, Houston County faced several challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the timber industry. However, the discovery of oil in neighboring counties brought new economic opportunities to the region and provided a much-needed boost to Houston County's economy. Today, Houston County continues to thrive as a vibrant rural community, with a rich history that is celebrated through numerous historic sites, museums, and events that showcase its past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Houston County, Texas.

  • 1837 - Houston County is created and organized from Nacogdoches County.
  • 1839 - The county seat, Crockett, is established and named after David Crockett.
  • 1854 - The Houston and Great Northern Railroad is built through the county, boosting economic development.
  • 1861-1865 - Houston County residents actively participate in the Civil War.
  • 1881 - The discovery of oil in the county leads to an oil boom.
  • 1893 - The Houston County courthouse is destroyed by fire.
  • 1936 - The Texas State Park Board establishes Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.
  • 1968 - Hurricane Beulah causes significant damage to the county.
  • 2008 - Hurricane Ike causes widespread destruction and power outages in the area.
  • 2020 - Houston County celebrates its 183rd anniversary.