Special to The Leader

AUSTIN, Texas—Preservation Texas, Inc. recently presented the Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site in Paris, Texas will receive a 2016 Honor Award. The award was presented February 18 at a special ceremony during the Preservation Texas 2016 Summit in Austin. Sam Bell Maxey House is one of the Texas Historical Commission’s (THC) 20 state historic sites.

“We are delighted to receive this important award from our partner, Preservation Texas. The Sam Bell Maxey House is a perfect example of the value of conservation approaches to important historic landmarks,” said Mark Wolfe, THC Executive Director.

The award is being given in recognition of a recent preservation project that involved extensive repairs to the home, while maintaining nearly all of the historic materials. The quality of the original materials and preservation methods enabled the team to repair rather than replace. Cypress window sashes were repaired and reglazed using the original glass. A decorative leaded glass transom was reconstructed. Shutters were disassembled and reassembled using repaired parts and replacement pegs. Today, the shutters are fully functioning, often used by the staff to control sunlight and heat gain into the interior. Inside, mechanical and fire protection systems were installed with care to minimize their impact on the historic fabric.

Built in 1868, the High Victorian Italianate style two-story home was the family residence of Sam Bell Maxey, a Mexican War veteran, Confederate general, and two-term U.S. senator. Visitors can take guided tours through the home and stroll through the property’s gardens. The site also offers year-round events and workshops. For more information, visit www.visitsambellmaxey.com.