Howell W. Runnels Home
Texarkana, Bowie County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Built about 1874 with open hall, wide verandas. Owner came to Texas Republic in 1842. Was in Legislature 1857-59. His wife, former Martha C. B. Adams, acted as first lady of Texas during term of brother-in-law, Governor Hardin R. Runnels, 1857-59. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1964
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Howell W. Runnels came to the Republic of Texas in 1842 and served in the state legislature in the late 1850s, building this home around 1874 with an open central hall and wide verandas. His wife, the former Martha Adams, served as Texas's first lady during the term of her brother-in-law, Governor Hardin R. Runnels. The house reflects the standing of a prominent political family in early Texarkana.
Why it matters
The home connects a single family to the political life of both the Republic and the young state, when a governor's kin could shape the social center of Texas.
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Related people
- · Howell W. Runnels
- · Martha C. B. Adams Runnels
- · Governor Hardin R. Runnels
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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