Built in 1885 for cattleman Thomas Newton “T. N.” Matthews, this two story Victorian residence captures the prosperity of late nineteenth century Gonzales. Its fabric is Florida longleaf pine shipped to the port of Indianola and hauled inland by ox team. For its day it was notably modern, with indoor plumbing, lightning rods, exterior fire escapes, and decorative glass in paired double doors at both the first and second floors. On January 1, 1890, merchant and rancher James Bailey Wells, Sr. purchased the property and moved his family from Leesville into town. The house retains extensive Gonzales County walnut millwork, including a walnut main staircase, and a high percentage of period furnishings. Several pieces were crafted by J. B. Wells, Jr., such as a hall tree made from parts of an old organ and bed slats and a love seat assembled from walnut chairs. A green and white marble mantel in the parlor, with companion vases dated 1873, remains a focal point. Public rooms preserve historic finishes, while the kitchen and bathrooms have been carefully modernized for function.
Public rooms available through Museum & Home Tours:
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Front gallery and entry hall with the decorative glass entry, the walnut stair, and sightlines to the formal rooms.
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Parlor with period seating, the marble mantel and 1873 vases, a large pier glass, and family objects tied to the Wells era.
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Dining room opening from the center hall, interpreted with period tableware and casework.
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Second floor landing and bedrooms reached by the walnut stair, opening to the second floor gallery.
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Back gallery and service areas where modern updates are identified so visitors can distinguish original fabric from later work.
Typical tours start on the front gallery, move through the entry, parlor, and dining room, continue to rear spaces, then climb the stair to the bedrooms and the upper gallery before returning to the hall for exhibits and departure.
Museum operation: The house is open as the J. B. Wells House and Museum, 833 Mitchell Street, Gonzales. Group tours are available by arrangement. The museum opens during Come and Take It weekend with special programming.