Foshee Family

Built 1890 on site purchased 1884 by William Emmett and Mary R. Foshee. He was a native of Alabama and she was a member of the pioneer Shepperd family of Upshur County. Eight children were born to this couple. Lumber for house was sawed at famous mill of John O'Byrne. Unusual and unique chimney was built of hand-hewn rock which came from banks of stream running through west edge of property. (Family enterprise, Ironrock Oil Company, was named for this special type rock.) Original hallway led from front porch through house to water well, which served family needs. In early 1930's one of first oil wells in the famous East Texas field was brought in here. Ironrock Oil Company is still operating. For many years, William Emmett Foshee served as postmaster. He was also a lumber teaming contractor, farmer and justice of the peace. His wife, Mary, was mother and homemaker to six surviving children. These pioneer parents left rich heritage to succeeding generations who still contribute traditional service to their community.

Foshee Family is a historical marker in Gladewater, Gregg County, dedicated in 1967. It is one of 81 historical markers documented in Gregg County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 124 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 32.5386, -94.9414 near Gladewater. The nearest cataloged historic site is Shepperd, John Ben (historical marker), about 0.2 miles away. Others within a short drive include First United Methodist Church of Gladewater, First Franchised Motor Bus Line in Texas, and Dr. E. L. and Nannie Lewis Walker House.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5183009958. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.