Ferguson Home
Temple, Bell County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Built 1907 for James E. and Miriam A. Ferguson, each later elected twice to governor's office in Texas. Mrs. Ferguson was the first woman elected Governor in any state. During their terms the Texas Highway Department and public schools achieved great importance. This was family home until Jim Ferguson became Governor in 1915, and again from 1917 to 1925, when Mrs. Ferguson was first inaugurated. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1967
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Built in 1907, this Temple house was the family home of James "Farmer Jim" Ferguson and his wife Miriam, a couple who between them won the Texas governorship four times. When Jim was barred from office after impeachment, Miriam ran and won in 1924—becoming one of the first women elected governor of any American state. Their tenures saw the rise of the Texas Highway Department and a new emphasis on public schools.
Why it matters
The Ferguson home is tied to a milestone in women's political history, when Miriam Ferguson broke into an office no woman had held.
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Related people
- · James E. Ferguson
- · Miriam A. Ferguson
Themes & tags
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