Frank B. Davidson House

Frank B. Davison House Texas City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Frank B. Davison House stands as a pillar of Texas City’s heritage, offering an authentic glimpse into its formative years, architectural legacy, and the lives of its visionary founders. Situated at 109 3rd Avenue North within Heritage Square Park, this meticulously preserved Victorian-era home—built between 1895 and 1897—was the residence of Frank B. Davison, a pivotal city commissioner and civic leader. Today, the house is not only the last remaining structure in Heritage Square Park on its original site, but also a symbol of resilience, having withstood the 1947 Texas City Disaster and numerous hurricanes.

This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know for your visit, including historical background, architectural highlights, visitor information, accessibility, guided tours, event opportunities, and practical tips. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, history buff, or casual traveler, the Frank B. Davison House is a must-see destination in Texas City.

Sources: Texas City Official Site, Explore Lone Star Coastal, Handbook of Texas Online

Introduction
Historical Significance of the Frank B. Davison House
Victorian Architecture and Design Features
- Exterior Elements
- Interior Features
Restoration and Preservation Efforts
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Guided Tours and Special Events
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Significance of the Frank B. Davison House

The Frank B. Davison House is more than a preserved residence; it is a testament to Texas City’s emergence as a vital Gulf Coast industrial hub. Frank B. Davison was instrumental in the city’s early growth, overseeing civic development and infrastructure that laid the foundation for Texas City’s prosperity. His home reflects the spirit and ambition of the era, serving as a touchstone for the community’s shared identity and progress.

Victorian Architecture and Design Features

Exterior Elements

Asymmetrical Layout: The house’s dynamic façade includes projecting bays and a distinctive round tower alcove.
Wraparound Porch: A deep, inviting porch encircles much of the home, supported by turned wooden posts and intricate spindlework.
Decorative Gables and Eaves: Steeply pitched gables with ornate bargeboards and brackets.
Tall, Narrow Windows: Vertical windows, often with stained or leaded glass, maximize light and ventilation.
Cypress Wood Construction: Durable cypress wood, shipped from Louisiana, was used for siding and shingles, providing resilience against the Gulf climate.

Interior Features

High Ceilings and Spacious Rooms: Designed for comfort and social gatherings.
Original Woodwork: Graceful entry halls, ornate mantels, hand-carved staircases, and period doors.
Fireplaces: Decorative surrounds serve as elegant focal points.
Period Fixtures: Original brass doorknobs, chandeliers, and other authentic details remain intact.

Sources: Texas City Official Site, SAH Archipedia

Restoration and Preservation Efforts

The Frank B. Davison House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the focus of ongoing restoration led by the City of Texas City and the Texas City Historical Preservation Corporation. Efforts prioritize historical accuracy, using period-appropriate materials and techniques. The house is regularly maintained to mitigate environmental challenges from the Gulf Coast’s humidity and storms. Preservation is further supported through city funding, grants, and community donations, with additional expertise and outreach from partners like the Lone Star Coastal Alliance.

Sources: Explore Lone Star Coastal

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours: Generally open on the first Sunday of most months, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hours may vary for special events or restoration work. Confirm by calling City Hall at 409-948-3111 or checking the official website.
Tickets: Admission is free; donations are encouraged to support preservation.
Accessibility: The first floor is wheelchair accessible. Some historic areas may have limited access—contact ahead for specific needs.
Parking: Free parking is available near Heritage Square Park.
Restrooms: Facilities are located within the park.

Sources: Texas City Official Site

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours: Docents from the Texas City Museum and Historical Association lead insightful tours during public hours, sharing the house’s history, architecture, and stories of the Davison family.
Special Events: The house hosts community meetings, local art displays, weddings, parties, and educational programs. For group tours or private events, advance reservations are recommended. Check the city’s website for event calendars and booking information.

Sources: Waymarking

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit with these nearby points of interest:

Texas City Dike: Ideal for waterfront walks, fishing, and birdwatching.
Moses Lake Park: Offers trails, picnic areas, and water activities.
Nessler Civic Center: Features a large park, library, and hosts community events.
Texas City Museum: Discover in-depth exhibits on local history, including the 1947 disaster.

Heritage Square Park itself includes other historic homes and museums, making it perfect for a comprehensive heritage tour.

Sources: Handbook of Texas Online

Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Practical Tips

Check Hours: Always verify opening times before visiting.
Dress for Weather: Texas summers can be hot and humid; bring water and wear comfortable clothing.
Photography: Allowed, but avoid flash and tripods unless permitted.
Accessibility: Contact the city in advance for detailed accessibility information.
Combine Visits: Pair your trip with other local attractions for a richer experience.

FAQ

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Typically the first Sunday of most months, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Confirm online or by phone.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, admission is free; donations are welcome.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, during public hours and by reservation.

Q: Is the house wheelchair accessible?
A: The first floor is generally accessible. Contact ahead for specific needs.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, but check for restrictions on flash and equipment.

Q: Are group tours or event rentals available?
A: Yes, both are available by advance arrangement.

Visuals and Media

View the location on Google Maps

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Frank B. Davison House is a cornerstone of Texas City’s cultural and architectural legacy. With its remarkable Victorian design, original features, and compelling history, it provides a rewarding experience for all visitors. Plan your visit by confirming hours and tour availability, and consider exploring other nearby heritage sites to enrich your journey.

Stay up-to-date with visiting hours, special events, and restoration news by following Texas City Heritage on social media and downloading the Audiala app for guided audio tours and interactive content. Your support—through donations, volunteering, or simply sharing your experience—helps preserve this historic gem for future generations.