House of the Seasons

Built in 1872 for Benjamin H. Epperson, the House of the Seasons derives its name from the cupola with its stained glass windows that create an illusion of the seasons of the year. The home is a fine example of the transition period between Greek revival and Victorian styles of architecture. In plan and overall form, it is Greek revival. However, the detailing is Victorian with certain Italianate characteristics, such as the tall arched windows, the bracketed cornices, the gallery, the cupola, and the projecting bay windows. The circular opening in the first floor ceiling allows a view of the frescoes in the dome. Benjamin Epperson (1826-1878), a confidant of Sam Houston, was a distinguished lawyer, political leader, and entrepreneur. He served many terms in the Texas Legislature and was elected to the U. s. Congress in 1866, but did not serve because the southern delegations were not seated. When he built the house, Epperson was listed as one of the wealthiest men in the state and was respected as a major influence in Texas politics. Throughout most of its history, the House of the Seasons has served as a residence. It has also been used as a boarding house and as the main building of Jefferson College, a World War II veterans' college. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965

House of the Seasons is a historical marker in Jefferson, Marion County, dedicated in 1962. It is one of 94 historical markers documented in Marion County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 132 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 32.7577, -94.3516 near Jefferson. The nearest cataloged historic site is Epperson-McNutt House (historic place), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Presbyterian Manse, Alley-McKay House, and Graham, Charles G..

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5315008049. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.