McClanahan-Trapp House
Coldspring, San Jacinto County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Built in the 1880s, this home was purchased by local businessman and merchant Robert Hugh McClanahan, Jr., in 1913. He served as county tax collector and was postmaster of Coldspring from 1914 until his death in 1940. When the town square was relocated after a 1915 fire destroyed the old courthouse, McClanahan had his home turned to face the new town. The home was known as a haven for travelers and visitors to Coldspring for many years. Following McClanahan's death, the house was owned by his son-in-law, Marshall Douglas Trapp.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Built in the 1880s, this Coldspring home was bought in 1913 by merchant Robert Hugh McClanahan, Jr., who served as county tax collector and as postmaster from 1914 until his death in 1940. After a 1915 fire destroyed the courthouse and the town square was relocated, McClanahan had his house turned to face the new town. Long a haven for travelers, it later passed to his son-in-law, Marshall Douglas Trapp.
Why it matters
The house reflects the everyday civic and commercial life of a small county seat, and the striking decision to rotate a home toward a relocated town square.
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Related people
- · Robert Hugh McClanahan, Jr.
- · Marshall Douglas Trapp
Themes & tags
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