Memories Of Magnolia Park

[Fez1964]

In 2009, the area in Houston's East End known as Magnolia Park or Magnolia, as we know it today, will complete 100 years of existence when it was declared a municipality in 1909. I have heard that there are celebrations in the works to honor the centennial. It has been suggested that Magnolia Park receive a Texas historical marker to honor the community.

I am a member of the Harris County Historical Commission which oversees the county's historical marker program. I have completed historical marker projects for a few subjects including the historic Harrisburg-Jackson cemetery located off of Bowie St. and Lawndale St. near Milby High School.

Born and raised in Magnolia, it would be my honor to mentor a private effort to get the community a historical marker. Are there any interested groups willing to sponsor this project?

The effort to get a marker should begin soon so that it can be unveiled for the centennial celebration.

As I think of the marker, I wonder where it should be installed in the community? Perhaps it can stand as Magnolia Park's original City Hall at Avenue F and 73rd St. Or maybe it can stand in one the area's City parks or at one of the community's entrances.

[Vertigo58]

I would imagine everyone living in Near East End would assist. Especially long time residants. There are numerous local East End societies that will rally on your side. PM

Even better would be if some could provide historical pics of the park. This is one park that has been an unsung hero for too long. Best thing to do is start a list even if means going door to door. Serious, it can be done.

[TheNiche]

Born and raised in Magnolia, it would be my honor to mentor a private effort to get the community a historical marker. Are there any interested groups willing to sponsor this project?

Sounds like a good idea to me, and its something that some politicians looking for a feel-good story would respond well to. Try contacting folks at the Greater East End Management District, the East End Chamber of Commerce, and Super Neighborhood #82. Those folks have more extensive political connections and should be able to take it from there if you can get them interested.

[Guest danax]

In 2009, the area in Houston's East End known as Magnolia Park or Magnolia, as we know it today, will complete 100 years of existence when it was declared a municipality in 1909. I have heard that there are celebrations in the works to honor the centennial. It has been suggested that Magnolia Park receive a Texas historical marker to honor the community.

I am a member of the Harris County Historical Commission which oversees the county's historical marker program. I have completed historical marker projects for a few subjects including the historic Harrisburg-Jackson cemetery located off of Bowie St. and Lawndale St. near Milby High School.

Born and raised in Magnolia, it would be my honor to mentor a private effort to get the community a historical marker. Are there any interested groups willing to sponsor this project?

The effort to get a marker should begin soon so that it can be unveiled for the centennial celebration.

As I think of the marker, I wonder where it should be installed in the community? Perhaps it can stand as Magnolia Park's original City Hall at Avenue F and 73rd St. Or maybe it can stand in one the area's City parks or at one of the community's entrances.

I agree with Niche that the Chamber or the Management Dist. might be good places to contact. I would think the City Hall building would be good, but I don't know if that building is a Protected Landmark and so could be demolished at some point leaving the plaque to fend for itself.

Ironic that, as Magnolia hits 100, it finds itself right on the edge of the townhouse development front lines, and so could be in for a major rebirth in the near future.

By the way, good work on the Harrisburg Cemetery. I live nearby and am glad that little piece of the past is still there.

[plumber2]

I would love to be involved in this somehow. My father's was born in Harrisburg in 1920. His parents lived in a house on 66th Street and Texas Ave. My grandparents were married at Blessed Sacrement church in 1919. This part of Houston has always been intriguing to me, even without the roots.

[Fez1964]

Thanks for your kind words and helpful suggestions. As I read your ideas, I realize that the Magnolia Park City Hall building at 7301 Avenue F should be declared a Registered Texas Historical Landmark. I will pursue this project as well.

Can someone provide me a history of the building? I understand that the City of Houston currently owns it. It looks like it is still in very good shape.

[Vertigo58]

On a seperate note: Do they still call Dezavala Park the same name? Wow, makes me wonder where the name came from, etc? Had to have been someone worth remembering.

Wouldn't this park be just as historical marker worthy? This is really going back in time.

[gnu]

On a seperate note: Do they still call Dezavala Park the same name? Wow, makes me wonder where the name came from, etc? Had to have been someone worth remembering.

Do you need to go back to 7th grade and repeat Texas history??

Manuel Lorenzo Justiniano de Zavala y S

[mkultra25]

On a seperate note: Do they still call Dezavala Park the same name? Wow, makes me wonder where the name came from, etc? Had to have been someone worth remembering.

Lorenzo de Zavala

Edit: Oops, gnu beat me to it.

Edited December 31, 2007 by mkultra25

[Vertigo58]

Lorenzo de Zavala

Edit: Oops, gnu beat me to it.

Thanks all!

Just a note while in Jackson Jr High we were never taught anything about Mexican/Hispanic history or rather hardly any at all. Other than the battle at San Jacinto monument?

Remember, teachers were either uninterested in teaching us or were told to avoid the subject. (whole new topic I know)

Edited December 31, 2007 by Vertigo58

[Fez1964]

One of the more interesting figures in Texas' fight for independence, Lorenzo De Zavala was a high ranking Mexican statesman who broke from the dictator Santa Anna and was one of the primary drafters of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

[Vertigo58]

One of the more interesting figures in Texas' fight for independence, Lorenzo De Zavala was a high ranking Mexican statesman who broke from the dictator Santa Anna and was one of the primary drafters of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

It would be great if someone snapped some pics of these parks. I barely remember De Zavala circa 1965-67. Was really nice then. This is another part of Houston that seems to be fading away. Oops goes in historical Houston section. I'm/we are drifting.

PS even the churches/restuarants surrounding the park are real history of the city.

[Cemeterywolf]

Would anyone be interested in artifacts from Magnolia Park? Items that could be displayed for the public to see...

Any schools or museums in the area of East End (Magnolia Park) would like to have as long as they displayed them?

Thanks.

[Fez1964]

Would anyone be interested in artifacts from Magnolia Park? Items that could be displayed for the public to see...

Any schools or museums in the area of East End (Magnolia Park) would like to have as long as they displayed them?

Thanks.

Cemeterywolf,

What kind of artifacts from Magnolia Park's past do you have to share? Depending on what you have, these items can be displayed in one of the area's libraries or perhaps an exhibit can be created at the Magnolia Park City Hall building on Avenue F. The City of Houston owns the building and I have contacted someone in the City of Houston to assist in having the building declared as a Registered Texas Historic Landmark. Hopefully, this declaration can be completed in time for the centennial of Magnolia Park where your artifacts can be displayed.

As a member of the Harris County Historical Commission, I can refer your artifacts to others around Houston and see what kind of ideas can be shared. Send me a personal email when you are ready.

Thanks for your efforts.

[Cemeterywolf]

The artifacts are household items from Ca. 1900-1930's. Bottles, china dolls, pipes, tokens, marbles, buttons-(shell,metal), eye glasses, compacts, bone toothbrush, watches, glass stoppers, ect. and so on.....

All items are from Magnolia Park area.

Thanks

[Cemeterywolf]

HISTORY OF MAGNOLIA PARK,TX. WEB SITE.

http://www.freewebs.com/hidalgopark/

Small but has some nice info, check it out.

Thanks,

GEW

[Vertigo58]

HISTORY OF MAGNOLIA PARK,TX. WEB SITE.

http://www.freewebs.com/hidalgopark/

Small but has some nice info, check it out.

Thanks,

GEW

Some of us maybe confused? I assumed Magnolia Park was an actual City Park (like in playground).

Not sure if public would be interested in seeing household items? Sound more like an anitques roadshow kind of thing? Just wondering if you could be more specific.

[gnu]

Some of us maybe confused? I assumed Magnolia Park was an actual City Park (like in playground).

http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/...es/MM/hvm6.html

Magnolia Park, near the Houston Ship Channelqv in eastern Harris County, is one of Houston's oldest Hispanic neighborhoods. It was laid out in 1890 on a 1,374-acre site belonging to Thomas M. Brady, on Harrisburg Road across Bray's Bayou from Harrisburg and seven miles downstream from Houston. It was named for the 3,750 magnolias that developers planted there. The community became an independent municipality in 1909. Though whites first inhabited the town, Mexican Americansqv from South Texas began arriving by 1911, first settling in the area filled by sand dredged from the turning basin and known as El Arenal or the Sands.

[Vertigo58]

http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/...es/MM/hvm6.html

Magnolia Park, near the Houston Ship Channelqv in eastern Harris County, is one of Houston's oldest Hispanic neighborhoods. It was laid out in 1890 on a 1,374-acre site belonging to Thomas M. Brady, on Harrisburg Road across Bray's Bayou from Harrisburg and seven miles downstream from Houston. It was named for the 3,750 magnolias that developers planted there. The community became an independent municipality in 1909. Though whites first inhabited the town, Mexican Americansqv from South Texas began arriving by 1911, first settling in the area filled by sand dredged from the turning basin and known as El Arenal or the Sands.

The attachment describes it to a T. Thanks GNU! Where's your pup avatar?

Most long time Houstonian's only refer to it as simply Magnolia, thats what threw me off.

What was really interesting is the historical community organizations mentioned in that link. Real Houston history indeed.

[Fez1964]

HISTORY OF MAGNOLIA PARK,TX. WEB SITE.

http://www.freewebs.com/hidalgopark/

Small but has some nice info, check it out.

Thanks,

GEW

Cemeterywolf,

Can you cite for me the source of this history as we will use it in our efforts to secure a historical marker for the community?

I am still looking for information on the Magnolia Park City Hall building located on at Avenue F and 73rd. I would like to get it recognized as a Registered Texas Historical Landmark.

[gnu]

Cemeterywolf,

Can you cite for me the source of this history as we will use it in our efforts to secure a historical marker for the community?

I am still looking for information on the Magnolia Park City Hall building located on at Avenue F and 73rd. I would like to get it recognized as a Registered Texas Historical Landmark.

The map cemeterywolf has on his webpage is also in Houghton's book Houston's Forgotten Heritage. Her citation lists it as from the Palmer Hutcheson Jr. Papers. (Junior League Component, Houston Metropolitan Research Center, & HPL)

Her book also has a small copy of a 1909 promotion ad for Magnolia park.

In the text of the book, she doesn't mention the municipality or its city hall.

She only discusses Brady and the eventual development of the addition

Edited January 14, 2008 by gnu

[Vertigo58]

Cemeterywolf,

Can you cite for me the source of this history as we will use it in our efforts to secure a historical marker for the community?

I am still looking for information on the Magnolia Park City Hall building located on at Avenue F and 73rd. I would like to get it recognized as a Registered Texas Historical Landmark.

Some photos would be so helpful?

All I could get was this aerial.

http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formt...S&geodiff=1

and you are right Fez, better get it certified as historical before it gets demolished like most of the cities old neighborhood landmarks.

[Cemeterywolf]

Some of us maybe confused? I assumed Magnolia Park was an actual City Park (like in playground).

Not sure if public would be interested in seeing household items? Sound more like an anitques roadshow kind of thing? Just wondering if you could be more specific.

Some of us maybe confused? I assumed Magnolia Park was an actual City Park (like in playground).

Not sure if public would be interested in seeing household items? Sound more like an anitques roadshow kind of thing? Just wondering if you could be more specific.

They are dug items from Magnolia Park, but if no one is interested, thats ok,never mind....

[Vertigo58]

They are dug items from Magnolia Park, but if no one is interested, thats ok,never mind....

There are good things in the works. Just hang tight.

[Fez1964]

They are dug items from Magnolia Park, but if no one is interested, thats ok,never mind....

Yes, there is definitely an interest in these items. Perhaps they can be showcased at any upcoming centenial celebrations of Magnolia. From time to time, local libraries have exhibitions and these items could be displayed in libraries of Magnolia such as the Stanaker branch and Park Place branch.

[Mark F. Barnes]

I was almost sure Bart Truxillo was on this forum, if not, he'd be a guy to get into contact with, he was a big in Magnolia Restoration and knows as much as anyone on the subject.

[gnu]

I was almost sure Bart Truxillo was on this forum, if not, he'd be a guy to get into contact with, he was a big in Magnolia Restoration and knows as much as anyone on the subject.

Mr. Truxillo would be familiar with the old Magnolia Brewery downtown (since he owns it)

I don't think he has been involved with any structures in Magnolia Park (the east side addition)

[Mark F. Barnes]

Here's a nice photo of old Harrisburg Port

[Fez1964]

In 2009, the area in Houston's East End known as Magnolia Park or Magnolia, as we know it today, will complete 100 years of existence when it was declared a municipality in 1909. I have heard that there are celebrations in the works to honor the centennial. It has been suggested that Magnolia Park receive a Texas historical marker to honor the community.

Listed below are some of Magnolia's surviving community landmarks that were established before 1930. These landmarks will be referenced in the written narrative that will support the proposed Texas historical marker. I have included brief histories and sources. I would appreciate any additional information and comments on these landmarks.

Immaculate Conception - Located at 7250 Harrisburg, this Catholic church was established in 1911. (Sources: the Archdiocese Galveston-Houston website and Sanborn Fire Insurance maps of Magnolia Park)

Hidalgo Park - Addressed at 7000 Avenue Q, this city park was established in 1927 shortly after Houston annexed Magnolia Park in 1926. I understand that this park was an important focal point for the community during the first half of the 20th century. (Source: City of Houston Parks Dept. website)

Franklin Elementary School - Located at 7101 Canal, this school was established as early as 1913 and was named the Magnolia Park Public School. (Source: HISD website and the 1925 Sanborn Fire Insurance map of Magnolia Park)

Immaculate Heart of Mary - Catholic church addressed at 7250 Avenue K and established in 1926. Before 1925, the site had what was called a "Presbyterian Mexican Church." By 1929, Immaculate Heart of Mary also had a school on the grounds. It is my understanding that this church was established as a mission to Magnolia's Mexican-American community from Immaculate Conception. (Sources: the Archdiocese Galveston-Houston website and the 1929 Sanborn Fire Insurance map of the area)

Lorenzo De Zavala school and city park - School was started as early as 1920 to serve Magnolia's Mexican-American community and was originally addressed at the corner of 75th St. and Avenue H. The park was established in 1945. (Sources: HISD website, City of Houston Park Dept. website and Sanborn Fire Insurance maps of Magnolia Park)

American Legion Hall - Addressed at 7547 Avenue C, this social hall was established between 1925 and 1929. (Sources: Sanborn Fire Insurance maps of the area)

Sociedad Mutualista Benito Juarez building - Originally a theater for live peformances and movies before 1925, this building located at 7320 Navigation became a social hall for this mutual aid society in 1928. (Sources: the Greater Houston Preservation Alliance website and Sanborn Fire Insurance maps of the area)

[Vertigo58]

This is great!

Please continue to add more info of this area.

I never realized that Magnolia covered so much territory. I can't recall if you added the actual square miles or end/stop line. Wasn't it like 75th street all the way to where Milby High School is?

In past East End topics, Broadway was described as a sort of downtown at one time. Brady's Landing is still a very popular site of high profile events. Very classy inside.

Here is some info on the website:

It is generally agreed that Brady’s Island was named for John Thomas Brady (1830-1890). Brady, a man ahead of his time, became interested in the potential of Houston as a deep-water port while chairing the State Internal Improvements Committee during the 10th and 11th State Legislatures. He died in 1890 while inspecting works being done toward development of what in time would become the Port Houston.

http://www.bradyslandingrestaurant.com/

Edited January 18, 2008 by Vertigo58

[MPHP]

This is great!

Please continue to add more info of this area.

I never realized that Magnolia covered so much territory. I can't recall if you added the actual square miles or end/stop line. Wasn't it like 75th street all the way to where Milby High School is?

In past East End topics, Broadway was described as a sort of downtown at one time. Brady's Landing is still a very popular site of high profile events. Very classy inside.

Here is some info on the website:

It is generally agreed that Brady

[MPHP]

We're looking for individuals who might be interested in assisting us with Magnolia's 100 Year Anniversary. If you or a family member has photos that date back to 1909, we'd appreciate getting a copy of your photos.

We have established a website: www.conrad-kirksey.com - We have some photos there. Maybe you know some of those individuals or can provide some information about the photo(s). We'll be adding more photos and information as time goes by.

Feel free to post your questions or comments.

[Fez1964]

We have established a website: www.conrad-kirksey.com - We have some photos there. Maybe you know some of those individuals or can provide some information about the photo(s). We'll be adding more photos and information as time goes by.

Wonderful photos and good luck with the website! The photos showing De Zavala school students of the 1930s are cool. In one of your photos, I see Jesse Jones and Franklin Delano Roosevelt in what appears to be a parade. I assume this was taken in Magnolia but do not know of the details. Can someone provide information on this photo?

Also, the photos of the baseball teams show that they played in some kind of stadium. Was this stadium located in Magnolia?

[Vertigo58]

We're looking for individuals who might be interested in assisting us with Magnolia's 100 Year Anniversary. If you or a family member has photos that date back to 1909, we'd appreciate getting a copy of your photos.

We have established a website: www.conrad-kirksey.com - We have some photos there. Maybe you know some of those individuals or can provide some information about the photo(s). We'll be adding more photos and information as time goes by.

Feel free to post your questions or comments.

There are people still associated with this historical Houston Latin organization that can be of great help to you.

http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/...es/CC/vnc2.html

One of the photos in your link is what appears to be a formal event, I thought it might have been one of the earliest "Mexico Bello" Gala's. It could be? Everyone is dressed-to-the-nines in the pic.

I love these great historic photos but in those days everyone wrote on the back what the event and people were. When we scan we forget to indicate who the people were, etc.

If you need names for research just ask. Please encourage others in your org to join Haif, like now. Cheers!

[MPHP]

Unfortunately not All pictures have information on back. Some of the pictures have dates and some Information, but not all clear. I will ask later to put on web . thks the web site is to see if anyone knows more information about the picture's.

[sak]

In one of your photos, I see Jesse Jones and Franklin Delano Roosevelt in what appears to be a parade. I assume this was taken in Magnolia but do not know of the details. Can someone provide information on this photo?

This photo may be from FDR's visit to Houston in June of 1936. He and Eleanor, along with many other dignitaries took a 2 hour tour of the Houston Ship Channel from the Turning Basin to the San Jacinto Battleground. They boarded the private yachts, Captiva (the men) and Sumoria (Eleanor and the other ladies) at one of the public wharves at the Turning Basin. The Houston papers from that day have many details, also Bob Bailey has some wonderful photographs of the boats cruising on the Ship Channel with their very important guests, along with a boat load of paparazzi.

[Vertigo58]

Now that would be a very rare pic indeed!

I bet there were still flamingos/white cranes and other beautiful wildlife still hanging out in the bayou areas then.

In fact there needs to be a mention of Buffalo Bayou tours in this very topic, I mean it is considered the far East End or Magnoli area you see.

[Fez1964]

Thanks for your kind words and helpful suggestions. As I read your ideas, I realize that the Magnolia Park City Hall building at 7301 Avenue F should be declared a Registered Texas Historical Landmark. I will pursue this project as well.

Can someone provide me a history of the building? I understand that the City of Houston currently owns it. It looks like it is still in very good shape.

In my research, the old City Hall building of Magnolia Park at 7301 Avenue F served as Voting precinct #64 for the area before the precinct was moved to the YWCA building on Navigation. Can anyone provide information on this?

[MPHP]

Is there any interested people willing to participate in preserving Magnolia Park History? Please feel free to browse www.gmppcc.com and read about the old city hall building on 7301 Ave.F and view pictures of the group. Mr.Chris Varela from Harris County Historical Commission has wrote a narrative on the building and is writing one for the community land marker for the centennial. On March 29, the group is going to meet at the American Legion on 7599 Ave. C and organize so that the project can start. The goal is to promote Magnolia Park and it's residents in surrounding its families in the past, present, and future. Please check calender on www.gmppcc.com to see time of meeting 3/29/08. Will post soon.

[Vertigo58]

Is there any interested people willing to participate in preserving Magnolia Park History? Please feel free to browse www.gmppcc.com and read about the old city hall building on 7301 Ave.F and view pictures of the group. Mr.Chris Varela from Harris County Historical Commission has wrote a narrative on the building and is writing one for the community land marker for the centennial. On March 29, the group is going to meet at the American Legion on 7599 Ave. C and organize so that the project can start. The goal is to promote Magnolia Park and it's residents in surrounding its families in the past, present, and future. Please check calender on www.gmppcc.com to see time of meeting 3/29/08. Will post soon.

Just offering some tips on alerting those that may be interested. Create a short and simple poster like what you made above and post in local Houses of worship, community centers, bus transit centers, high school newspapers, baseball parks, grocery store boards, U of H, etc. Anywhere that families gather. In fact there are professors at U of H that would be honored to assist. Most important of all, make sure someone gets attendees emails for future follow up. It wouldnt hurt to notify the Chron with a small article notice.

I for one and proud that someone is finally acknowledging this underepresented area of this city. Best of luck to all of you!

[MPHP]

Thank you for your suggestions vertigo hopefully this group will start to organize and use your ideas . I hope that blogging on this web site will reach more people in the community and surrounding communities interested in promoting the East end or as someone said East end Beginnings. Change is coming you can see it or be a part of it.

[Vertigo58]

Thank you for your suggestions vertigo hopefully this group will start to organize and use your ideas . I hope that blogging on this web site will reach more people in the community and surrounding communities interested in promoting the East end or as someone said East end Beginnings. Change is coming you can see it or be a part of it.

HCC Campus on Rustic & 45/Woodridge is another great place to slap up some posters of your cause. University of Houston Main Campus boards allow such postings if told in advance.

Then there is a local Community-based radio station talk show that would love to air for you "on the house". Opportunity only knocks...

[Fez1964]

In 2009, the area in Houston's East End known as Magnolia Park or Magnolia, as we know it today, will complete 100 years of existence when it was declared a municipality in 1909. I have heard that there are celebrations in the works to honor the centennial. It has been suggested that Magnolia Park receive a Texas historical marker to honor the community.

Inspired by the efforts of Magnolia Park to get a Texas historical marker for the community, the Catholic church of Immaculate Conception has also shown interest in obtaining a historical marker as it nears its centennial anniversary in 2011.

Founded by Oblate Catholic priests in 1911, Immaculate Conception addressed at 7250 Harrisburg is perhaps Magnolia Park's oldest surviving institution. The church's influence goes beyond Magnolia Park. Immaculate Conception founded Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic church at 2405 Navigation in 1912. Then in the late 1910s, a priest from Immaculate Conception was visiting the newly developed Park Place community to conduct Mass for Catholics residing there. From this missionary effort, St. Christopher Catholic Church at 8150 Park Place Boulevard was organized in 1922.

It is my understanding that Immaculate Conception also had an influence in organizing Our Queen of Peace Catholic Church located at 3011 Telephone Road. The first church building used by Queen of Peace in 1942 was transferred from the property of Immaculate Conception. As I survey the Queen of Peace parish, I notice that there is a second smaller building on Telephone Road which resembles a church. Perhaps someone out there can collaborate this history.

And as the history of Immaculate Conception continues to be researched, other interesting aspects of the church may be uncovered. Stay tuned.

[Vertigo58]

Inspired by the efforts of Magnolia Park to get a Texas historical marker for the community, the Catholic church of Immaculate Conception has also shown interest in obtaining a historical marker as it nears its centennial anniversary in 2011.

Founded by Oblate Catholic priests in 1911, Immaculate Conception addressed at 7250 Harrisburg is perhaps Magnolia Park's oldest surviving institution. The church's influence goes beyond Magnolia Park. Immaculate Conception founded Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic church at 2405 Navigation in 1912. Then in the late 1910s, a priest from Immaculate Conception was visiting the newly developed Park Place community to conduct Mass for Catholics residing there. From this missionary effort, St. Christopher Catholic Church at 8150 Park Place Boulevard was organized in 1922.

It is my understanding that Immaculate Conception also had an influence in organizing Our Queen of Peace Catholic Church located at 3011 Telephone Road. The first church building used by Queen of Peace in 1942 was transferred from the property of Immaculate Conception. As I survey the Queen of Peace parish, I notice that there is a second smaller building on Telephone Road which resembles a church. Perhaps someone out there can collaborate this history.

And as the history of Immaculate Conception continues to be researched, other interesting aspects of the church may be uncovered. Stay tuned.

More East End mysteries solved! Great addition of history Fez!

Now we see the loose ends all coming together in one nice bunch. This is like finding a distant relative after years of searching.

Immaculate Conception is mentioned here as well:

http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/...es/MM/hvm6.html

[Fez1964]

In 2009, the area in Houston's East End known as Magnolia Park or Magnolia, as we know it today, will complete 100 years of existence when it was declared a municipality in 1909. I have heard that there are celebrations in the works to honor the centennial. It has been suggested that Magnolia Park receive a Texas historical marker to honor the community.

I am a member of the Harris County Historical Commission which oversees the county's historical marker program. I have completed historical marker projects for a few subjects including the historic Harrisburg-Jackson cemetery located off of Bowie St. and Lawndale St. near Milby High School.

Born and raised in Magnolia, it would be my honor to mentor a private effort to get the community a historical marker. Are there any interested groups willing to sponsor this project?

The effort to get a marker should begin soon so that it can be unveiled for the centennial celebration.

As I think of the marker, I wonder where it should be installed in the community? Perhaps it can stand as Magnolia Park's original City Hall at Avenue F and 73rd St. Or maybe it can stand in one the area's City parks or at one of the community's entrances.

[Fez1964]

As we prepare to recognize the centennial in 2009 for the community of Magnolia Park, I have come in possession of census records of the community for 1920 and 1930.

If you have roots in Magnolia Park during the 1920s and 1930s, contact me through a private email and perhaps I can share with you some family history. Census records can be a hit or miss and often offer some invaluable and interesting information.

Magnolia Park roughly extended from 65th Street to 80th Street and was bordered by the ship channel and Harrisburg Boulevard.

[Vertigo58]

As we prepare to recognize the centennial in 2009 for the community of Magnolia Park, I have come in possession of census records of the community for 1920 and 1930.

If you have roots in Magnolia Park during the 1920s and 1930s, contact me through a private email and perhaps I can share with you some family history. Census records can be a hit or miss and often offer some invaluable and interesting information.

Magnolia Park roughly extended from 65th Street to 80th Street and was bordered by the ship channel and Harrisburg Boulevard.

This would be of great benefit to anyone that even lived in the area or had a business in Magnolia. Even if you divulge a last name never know you may have had distant relatives in this area once?

Way to go Fez!

[NenaE]

This would be of great benefit to anyone that even lived in the area or had a business in Magnolia. Even if you divulge a last name never know you may have had distant relatives in this area once?

Way to go Fez!

I second that, Way to go, Fez! I hope the marker gets approved. The East End needs this kind of recognition.

[NenaE]

I thought I would tell you all a little bit about my great-grandmother, Nena E. Stanaker. She was born in 1892 in Cuero, Texas and spent her childhood there. From family stories, I've heard that she grew up on a working ranch, where she learned the fine art of cooking, from her mom. Her mother & father were both Texans; her dad died young, and her mom never remarried, raised three children by being the ranch cook. Sometime after her father's death, and as a young lady, Nena moved to Houston, where she met my great-grandfather, Francis E. Stanaker, whose family traces back to the Northern United States. They married in 1910, and settled in Magnolia Park (Central Park). In 1911, their only son was born. Nena spent the remainder of her married life caring for her family, and serving the East End in one capacity or another. Early census records from 1920 show Nena listed herself with "no occupation". (I have to smile at that statement). In the same census records, my great-grandfather was recorded as being an "Engineer" for a building company. This is where I realize he had the knowledge and/or skill to build their own family home, as well as rental properties. I've been told Nena was active in the local political arena, may have held the title of precinct judge. I know for a fact she was, at one time, President of the PTA at Franklin Elementary School as well as a life member. She had a gift as a talented orator, was at ease talking to a crowd as easily as one person. She thrived in the social arena. I have been told she had many friends who at times referred to her as the unofficial mayor of the East End. From articles I've read, I know that Nena helped organize and maintain a library for East End children, through the school system, before a library building was built in Central Park. It was first named simply Central Park Library, was later dedicated to her. Although I know of no formal education she received after high school, Nena undoubtedly recognized the importance of education & more specifically, reading, especially to young children. It was a cause she promoted most of her life. As for my own impression, I remember her as a very relaxed, slow talking great-grandmother, who preferred to be called by her name, Nena. I would not realize until years later that was her real first name. (I thought it was a name like nana). She was a very tall, "salt-of-the-earth" Texas woman who towered over me, was soft-spoken, but at the same time very strong. She was a naturalist, who was at ease outdoors, whether it be cleaning her yard, taking care of animals, wild & tame, or simply sitting on her front porch. She once said "you need to leave water out for the animals". She obviously loved and cared for all living things. From time spent with my grandmother Camille, I know of two books that were among Nena's favorites: the first is one about North American birds and another is about trees. She was a huge baseball fan, and obviously passed that love on to her grandson, my father. From my own experience, I can say that nights spent with Nena included listening to the baseball game on the transister radio, while we were falling to sleep. She was most comfortable on the East, blue-collar side of town, where she fought for the "working man". Along with her many Anglo friends, she was just at ease among her Spanish-speaking neighbors, some of whom eventually purchased her home and rental properties. (My greatgrandparents address - bungalow was located at 7102 Ave. E.) They had rental properties on each side of their own house. I can't imagine Nena living anywhere else. She never drove a car, she walked many places, the corner grocery that her friends "The Wu's" owned, or the bus stop (to ride downtown) to shop. In the East End for many years, you simply didn't need an automobile. Nena was a huge presence within her own family. I have clear memories of her cooking enormous Christmas Eve feasts for our big family gatherings. Everyone sought my greatgrandmother out for her cooking & her "worldly advice" about life. Above all else, I remember Nena's great love of the East End of Houston, and more specifically, Magnolia Park. This is why I chose "NenaE" for my HAIF name.

link: http://www.soulpixel.com/centennial/named_building_f.html

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk109/N...otos/NenaE2.jpg

Here's a picture of Nena with me, my sister, and a kitten, in the early 1960's. Her house is in the background.

Edited July 6, 2008 by NenaE

[Vertigo58]

What a fantastic addition to this forum and all of Houston. Thank you.