HomeMy WebLinkAbout44-HCP-1
DATE: June 10, 2002
TO: Historic Landmark Commission
FROM: Stephen C. Richardson, Planning Manager
SUBJECT: Request for approval of an HC-L, Historic -Cultural Landmark Preservation Designation
FILE: 44-HC
STAFF REPORT
The Planning Manager recommends approval of this item.
Willie G. Carriere, property owner, has requested a HC-L Designation for the property located
at 1021 Bonham. On the property sits a vacant building identified as "Mae's Place".
According to Mr. Carriere, 1021 Bonham was one of the first Black owned and operated
businesses in the City of Beaumont. Mr. Carriere states that the City Directory, dating back to
1935, shows a James Miner as the owner of a barbecue restaurant, for black customers only, at
this location. Since that date, eight black owned restaurants have been located at this location.
Mr. Carriere says that a building has been at 1021 Bonham since 1889. This location has been
in the City Directory since 1928. This property is located in what was called the "Red Light
District". Other buildings that were part of this district and still remain include the Stedman
Building, the train depot and the warehouse on Crockett.
According to Mr. Carriere, there has been a restaurant and tavern located at 1021 Bonham for the
last 75 years. Mr. Carriere states that this site reminds many of the history of how the Black
community began in Beaumont.
Mr. Carriere states that Herbert Oxford and his wife, Sadie, owned a local lumber yard and a
number of properties. These enterprises provided many opportunities for the African -American
community. This property was owned by Mrs. Oxford and she leased it to various Blacks who
used the property for restaurants.
In 1961, Willie and Verdie Mae Carrierre began renovation of the property. In 1981, the
Carriere's purchased the property from Mr. Oxford. The restaurant served the Black community
and the downtown area.
Exhibits are attached.