Judge T.H. Spooner House

Thomas Harrison Spooner was born on August 18, 1849, in Macon, Mississippi, and moved to Texas with his parents in 1865. After beginning his law studies under local attorneys James F Miller and W B Sayers, he was admitted to the bar in 1871 and went on to practice law privately for a decade. On January 12, 1876, he married Molly Elizabeth Allen, whose family roots traced back to Sweet Home, Texas. To mark the beginning of their life together, Tom had this house built in 1875 as a wedding gift for Molly.

The Spooners raised eight children in this home (two sons and six daughters) and spent their entire married life here. Tom's legal career evolved from private practice to public service when he was elected District Attorney in 1884. In 1892, he was elected District Judge of the 25th Judicial District. After a four year term, he was appointed inspector on the State Penitentiary Board by Governor J D Sayers, serving another four-year term before retiring from law in 1902.

Upon retirement, Tom transitioned into utility management, acquiring controlling interest in all four utilities serving the town: The Water Works, Citizens Electric Light and Power Company, Water Power Company, and Ice and Refrigeration Company. His investments in these services played a significant role in modernizing daily life for the community.

Miss Tom Spooner, one of the couple's daughters, lived in the house until her passing in 1982. In recognition of its historical significance, the home was donated to the County Historical Commission before being sold and later restored. For a time, it operated as a bed and breakfast.

The Spooner House, crafted from durable cypress wood, has remained in remarkable condition. Its interior features beautifully preserved woodwork, intricate fretwork dividing the entry hall, and a hand-carved walnut staircase leading to the second floor. A revolving stained-glass window between the hall and dining area adds a distinctive charm. The home also boasts several original fireplaces with ornate mantels and was notably the first in town to use natural gas.