[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 124 (Tuesday, July 23, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E958]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE CHAMBERS COUNTY COURTHOUSE ON ITS DESIGNATION AS A 
                     TEXAS STATE HISTORICAL MARKER

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                            HON. BRIAN BABIN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 23, 2019

  Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Chambers 
County Courthouse for its designation as an official Texas State 
Historical Marker.
  Named after Texas pioneer Major General Thomas Jefferson Chambers, 
Chambers County was established in 1858. Until the early 20th century, 
Wallisville was the county seat and the location for the first three 
Chambers County courthouses built in 1858, 1880 and 1887 respectively. 
However, Anahuac's rice canal system and the presence of wild hogs in 
Wallisville prompted an election in 1907 that made Anahuac the county 
seat in 1908.
  After the election and the move, the county constructed a new 
courthouse. Completed in 1912 at its current location, the new 
municipal building included a jail, indoor plumbing, telephones, and 
electric lights. Built in the Renaissance Revival style, its imposing 
figure boasted large columns and a stone exterior. The building, 
however, burned down on April 28, 1935.
  Later in 1935, County Treasurer Grover C. Wilcox desired a modern 
courthouse ``in line with the growth of the town.'' As a part of 
federal New Deal programs, the Public Works Administration contributed 
funds for the design and construction. Designed by Corneil G. Curtis 
and built by notable contractor Robert E. McKee, construction finished 
in May 1937 on the three-story, ashlar limestone building. A 
combination of art deco and modern architectural styles (1920s to 
1940s), the courthouse's exterior showcases vertical lines, a 
symmetrical facade, geometric shapes, and simple ornamentation. Since 
its construction, little has changed about this unique building. 
Throughout its history, the Chambers County Courthouse has not only 
acted as a focal point of the community but has also reflected the 
county's economic, political and social history.
  As a former member of the Texas Historic Commission, I know this is a 
great honor for the community. I wish all of my friends in Chambers 
County well as they celebrate the dedication on July 23rd.

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