Sanders House

Tennessee-born Robert Washington Sanders (1850-1916), a master wood carver, was drawn to Beaumont in 1878 by the newly-emerging lumber industry. He worked in several local lumber mills until 1902, when he went into business for himself as a cabinet maker. Known throughout the area for his work, he designed the stairs for the Tyrrell Public Library in Beaumont, was a member of the planning committee for the Jefferson County Courthouse, and served as a city alderman for one term. His hand-carved furniture was proudly displayed in several early homes and churches. Sanders and his wife Ida Mae (d. 1942) acquired the land at this site in 1886. Contractor James Wellman built the two-story, Queen Anne style house for them in 1895 according to their specifications, but Sanders did the finishing work himself. Using native woods such as cypress, curly pine and cedar, he carved the ornamental details on the exterior as well as the front door, the interior spiral staircase and much of the furniture inside the house. The Sanders rented part of their home to boarders during the time they lived here. The house stands today as a reminder of a Beaumont pioneer and as a monument to his craftsmanship. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1982 Incise on base: Sponsored by Barbara & Alan McNeill

Sanders House is a historical marker in Beaumont, Jefferson County, dedicated in 1982. It is one of 109 historical markers documented in Jefferson County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 137 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 30.0865, -94.0980 near Beaumont. The nearest cataloged historic site is Central Fire Station (historical marker), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Beaumont Enterprise, Travis Street Substation, and Westminster Presbyterian Church of Beaumont.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5245010561. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.