"A leader is someone who helps improve the lives of other people or improve the system they live under."
~ Sam Houston
General Sam Houston was a natural-born leader, governor, a champion of Texas independence and the first president of the Republic of Texas.
The Sam Houston Memorial Museum is located on the 15 acres of the Houston family's original homestead. According to the Facebook page, the museum is an educational institution "for the benefit of local, state, national and international audiences."
Within the museum grounds, there are three locations to check out:
Sam Houston Memorial Museum (1836 Sam Houston Avenue)
Wigwam Neosho Museum Store (located in the center of the Museum Grounds)
Katy & E. Don Walker, Sr. Education Center (1402 19th Street)
The most famous landmark on the grounds of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum is the rotunda. It consists of interactive exhibits about the events surrounding the Republic of Texas, Sam Houston's family, how Texas became part of the United States and the Civil War. It also contain's Houston's important artifacts.
In 1947, Houston bought a property in Huntsville to build the Woodland Home. By February 1848, the home's construction was completed. The couple lived at the house while Houston served as one of the Texas's first U.S. senators. As a result, Houston would travel several times away from home.
"It is a matter of great satisfaction to me to hope that my children will be in circumstances to receive a good education. Mine was defective and I feel the inconvenience, if not the misfortune of not receiving a classical education. Knowledge is the food of genius, and my son, let no opportunity escape you to treasure up knowledge."
~ Sam Houston
In a sentimental letter to his wife, Houston referred to the house as "our dear woodland home," hence the name Woodland Home.
The Woodland Home is still located on the original site.
The Steamboat House was originally located north of Hunstville. However, it was moved to the Memorial Museum grounds in early 1936. During his campaign for governor, Houston sold his Woodland Home to pay off some campaign debts.
Upon his return to Huntsville, he attempted to buy back the Woodland Home, but the new owners refused to sell. So in 1862, Houston rented the Steamboat House, which was the last house the Houston family lived in.
Houston died of pneumonia on July 26, 1863 at 6:15 p.m. Houston said his last words, "Texas, Texas Margaret." He was 70 years old.
At any given day, you may have to take a stop to get a nice breath of fresh air over at Lake Oolooteka, also known as the Duck Pond.
There, you will find some Muscovy ducks, chickens, white geese, turtles resting along the pond and even some house cats roaming around the Guerrant Cabin.
The Wigwam Neosho is located at the center of the Memorial Museum grounds is the place to get some Texas-inspired souvenirs for people of all ages. The gift shop is open during museum hours and there is an online shop.
If you have a chance to visit, the address is 1836 Sam Houston Avenue, Huntsville, Texas 77340.
You can also check out the events taking place at the Memorial Museum. Throughout the year, it holds special historical demonstrations, such as blacksmithing, weaving and woodworking. Dates are subject to change.
Additionally, fun and educational events are held annually, including the annual General Sam Houston Folk Festival, the Houston Family Christmas and Harvest Festival.
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