The Ayer's House
403 E. Elizabeth Street in Jefferson, Texas
For Samuel and Valerie Ayer, the journey to building this dream home wasn’t just about construction – it was about honoring a vision that had been forming for over two decades. Situated on a pristine piece of land that had never before hosted a home, the Ayer’s House is a testament to both their commitment to preserving the past and creating something entirely new. For 20 years, the Ayer’s carefully collected antiques, vintage light fixtures, plumbing fixtures and architectural treasures, waiting for the right moment to bring them to life on this untouched property. Today, the Ayer’s House stands as a beautiful blend of craftsmanship, history, and the promise of a new beginning.
The land where the Ayer’s House now proudly stands had never seen a home before, making this project truly unique. Sam and Valerie chose this piece of land specifically for its natural beauty and serene setting, envisioning a space where they could craft a home that felt both timeless and connected to the city of Jefferson. Among the most notable of their decor items are the vintage chandeliers that now grace the dining room, bathrooms, and living area. Discovered over a decade before construction began, these fixtures add a sense of history and elegance to the brand-new space, creating a link between the past and the untouched land they now illuminate.
One of the greatest challenges, and rewards, of building the Ayer’s House was finding a way to seamlessly integrate these antique elements into the design of a modern home. The Craftsman-style architecture, with its emphasis on natural materials and hand-crafted details, provided the perfect framework for blending old and new. From the handmade front door with sidelights to the vent-a-hood surround sourced from a century-old fireplace mantle, each antique was thoughtfully placed within the home’s design. The result is a house that feels deeply rooted in history while still embracing the conveniences and luxuries of modern life.
Today, the Ayer’s House stands as a symbol of what can be achieved through patience, vision, and a deep respect for both history and the environment. It is a home where memories will be made for generations to come, on land that had been waiting for its perfect match. For those who visit, it’s clear: the Ayer’s House is more than just a dream home – it’s a story of preservation, patience, and the creation of something truly special on land that had never been touched befores.
The Culberson House
403 N. Walnut Street in Jefferson, Texas
The Culberson House was built in the early 1860’s by Col. David Browning Culberson, Jr. Originally from Georgia and Alabama, the Culberson family moved to East Texas via wagon train and settled in Jefferson with his wife Eugenia Kimball in 1861, where he continued to practice law. Culberson served as the defense attorney in the Stockdale Case of 1869 and defended accused murderer Abe Rothschild in the Diamond Bessie murder trial.
The Culberson House is an exquisite example of Greek Revival architecture. This classic architectural style, with its symmetrical shape, low roof lines, columns and pediments, was inspired by Greek temples, a tribute to the very concept of democracy. The Culberson House has been owned by Rob and Pam Baker since 2017.
The Homestead
410 E. Delta Street in Jefferson, Texas
The Homestead was built in 1851 as an inn by Bartholomew Figures, a friend of Sam Houston, and was once the center of social life in Jefferson. The inn operated until 1864 when John C. Murphy bought the nine-bedroom inn and converted it into a fashionable boarding house. The Homestead is a two-story vernacular Greek Revival style home. The front façade features a large two-story pedimented portico. The portico is supported by four square columns.
In 1919, the Dannelly family purchased it and lived there for more than ninety years. Elizabeth Dannelly, a prominent Jeffersonian and member of the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club, lived in the home for more than seventy of those years. In 2013, the home acquired new owners. Paul and Pauline Yoder are continuing renovations that were started in 2013 and are excited to share them with you on the Candlelight Tour of Homes.
Ruth Lester Memorial/ Jefferson Playhouse
211 W. Henderson Street in Jefferson, Texas
One of Jefferson’s most cherished landmarks was originally built in 1860 by Robert and Olive Nesmith. This charming home, crafted from native pine and cypress, has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century. In 1869, it transformed into St. Mary’s School and convent, led by Father John Marie Giraud and the Sisters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul. Later, in 1875, it became a place of worship for the Hebrew Sinai congregation, who expanded the property with a grand synagogue.
Fast forward to 1955, when the site took on a dramatic new role as the setting for "The Murder Trial of Diamond Bessie," a beloved play brought to life by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club. A decade later, the Garden Club officially acquired this storied landmark, preserving its legacy for generations to come. Today, this historic treasure stands as a testament to Jefferson’s rich and diverse past — an architectural gem where history, culture, and community come together.