About the Orange County Historical Society
Documenting Sabine River Heritage
The Orange County Historical Society works to document and preserve the history of Southeastern Texas along the Sabine River. Orange County was formed in 1852 from parts of Jefferson County, and the society holds quarterly meetings to bring together researchers, genealogists, and history enthusiasts who share a passion for this unique border region. The OCHS office schedules research appointments and board members assist visitors with research questions, helping them discover the rich materials available in the collection.
From Lumber to Oil: County History
Orange County's history reflects the economic transformations that shaped Southeast Texas. In the 1870s and 1880s, the county's economy began to flourish with the establishment of the Lutcher-Moore Lumber Company in 1876 and the operation of the Texas and New Orleans Railroad. This lumber boom brought prosperity for three decades until the emergence of the oil industry, sparked by the Bland Well discovery in 1913. The society documents these pivotal eras through its collections of photographs, documents, and oral histories that trace the region's evolution from frontier territory to industrial hub.
Heritage House Museum
Closely associated with local history efforts is the Heritage House Museum, featuring the Jimmy Ochiltree Sims home built in 1902 in Orange, Texas. Carefully designed by Sims to reflect his upper-middle-class status, the home remained in the family until 1977 when it was relocated and restored as a historical museum by the Heritage House Association. Now a Recorded Historic Texas Landmark by the Texas Historical Commission, the Heritage House Museum at 905 W. Division Street presents an authentic example of early 20th century middle-class life in the region.
Plan Your Visit
The Orange County Historical Society holds quarterly meetings and welcomes researchers interested in Southeastern Texas history. For research appointments and inquiries, contact the society at (409) 882-3083 or write to P.O. Box 1345, Orange, TX 77631-1345. Visit orangecountyhistory.org for meeting schedules and research resources. The Heritage House Museum at 905 W. Division Street offers additional opportunities to explore the region's heritage.
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