Museums In Newton County

In 1962, a group of local and county residents formed the Newton County Historical Survey Committee. With a dynamic vision for local history preservation, these people were dedicated to providing their community with a center that housed historical documents, artifacts and genealogy records for further generations to enjoy. In 1974, the name of the Committee was changed to the Newton County Historical Commission. In 1988, the Commission formed the History Center and moved into the present location at the Civic Center.

The medallions at right show the 31 consecutive Distinguished Service Awards presented to the Newton County Historical Commission from the Texas Historical Commission.

The History Center houses thousands of historical and governmental records as well as a vast collection of museum artifacts and displays. Assistance is available. Many documents have been copied to CD's for quick and easy retrieval. Files include Newton Co. History, Family Files, Card Catalogues, Newspapers which are indexed on computer, Obituaries and Commission Scrapbooks. Extensive files also housed include information and history pertaining to Cemeteries, Communities, Churches, Civic Organizations

Newton County Historical Commission History Center & Museum
8:30-4:30 M-F
105 Court Street...1 Blk. from the Courthouse
213 Court Street
Newton, Texas 75988
409-379-2109

8:30-4:30 M-F
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POWELL HOTEL MUSEUM
Home To The Newton County Chamber of Commerce
VISITORS CENTER!

The Powell Hotel was originally the W.H.Ford Male and Female College. It was located at the site of the old high school on east Main Street. Built in 1889, it served as a co-educational college. The large room on the first floor was for younger and less advanced students. The upper floor was for the more progressive students and included the auditorium.

Sold to Joseph Dallas Powell and Minnie Howard Powell in 1914, the building was converted into a hotel. The Powell family operated the Powell Hotel until 1954. At that time, it became the residence of Ms. Helen Powell, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. J.D. Powell. In 1999, the Powell heirs deeded the hotel and property to the Newton County Historical Commission to be restored and serve as a museum that would represent the education and culture of Newton County beginning in 1889. The photo at the right/above was taken in 1998 just prior to restoration activities. The beam that spans the front elevation and supports the second floor balcony was so rotted that collapse was imminent. Stabilization of the existing structural was the first phase of renovation.

	In order to preserve the school and hotel heritage of the Powell Hotel, this original classroom (left) is furnished with many of the desks and other furniture present in the early 1900's.
This (right) was the original table used to serve meals to the residents and guest of the Hotel.
	FELIX SYLER ROOM Felix Syler owned and operated the Syler Drug Store for decades on the Historic Newton County Courthouse Square. He lived in this room (left) for nearly 40 years. Displayed are personal belongings of Mr. Syler and other artifacts.
Hallway from entry foyer to dining room in rear of building. Note the thickness of the wall at the door opening on the right side of the picture. All interior walls are 1x12 Richlighter (Longleaf Pine). During renovation work when trimming or re-nailing through this wood you could smell the distinctive odor of turpentine.

Guest Room	Photo of Charles Homer Howard, father of Iris & Anne Howard, for whom the Civic Center is named.

Medallion	W. H. Ford circa 1890

Foyer	Kitchen
	2nd floor Hall of Memories - A magnificent view from the staircase landing looking east. Note the pictures of past residents of the Hotel on the walls.
During the restoration process, this money was found under some boxes as well as a mattress! Note the CSA currency and Mexican currency.

Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
10:00 am - Noon / 1pm - 5:00 pm
Phone: 409-379-5527
Fax: 409-379-2134
Email: Newton County Chamber of Commerce
Special Tours and Appointments Available!