Merritt Building
Henderson, Rusk County, Texas
Marker Inscription
One of the first lots occupied after the town of Henderson was founded in 1848, this site has been a cornerstone in the city's downtown development. Jesse F. Merritt bought the lot in 1883 and had this brick building constructed for his Sunny South Saloon. Built by local brickmasons Dave and Logan Howard, it has been home to several enterprises over the years, including saloons, offices, and a local social club. It was the location for Cameron's Drug Store for fifty years. The Merritt Building remains important to Henderson's downtown area.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
One of the first lots claimed after Henderson was founded in 1848, this corner became a fixture of the town's downtown. Jesse F. Merritt bought it in 1883 and hired local brickmasons to raise this building for his Sunny South Saloon. Over the years it housed saloons, offices, a social club, and Cameron's Drug Store for half a century.
Why it matters
It is a durable witness to the commercial life of a small East Texas county seat across more than a century of downtown history.
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Related people
- · Jesse F. Merritt
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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