Pioneer Trade Day raises funds to preserve historic house

THIS OLD HOUSE IS LOOKING GOOD for going on 190, but the Gaines-Oliphant house is in need of serious restoration efforts.The Daughters of the Republic of Texas will hold a Pioneer Day fundraiser Saturday, April 19, beginning at 9 a.m. near Milam.

The Gaines-Oliphant house in Milam is one of the oldest Anglo-American structures in Texas. This Saturday, April 19, you can help with the restoration and enjoy the annual Pioneer Trade Day celebration beginning at 9 a.m.

The house was built by James Taylor Gaines, perhaps as early as 1818. It is a handhewn log home, two-story, which once had native iron ore rock fireplaces on both ends. Only one fireplace with a partial chimney remains.

In front of the house is a white oak tree more than 325 years old. Legends say many discussions about the future of the Republic of Texas took place under this tree.

The James Frederick Gomer chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas were given the house in 1999. They have created a master plan for restoration, which will begin with stabilization of the home.

Pioneer Day is the third Saturday in April at the house. Admission is free; activities include venodrs, prizes, historical displays and music.

The Gaines-Oliphant house is in Sabine County; from Hwy. 87 go east on Hwy 21 for 6.4 miles, north on Cedar Grove for .1 miles, east on Harbor Blvd. for .1 miles, northwest on Ensign Drive for .2 miles. For more information call Nina Gooch at 409-787-4088.

Donations for the restoration can be sent to the Gomer Chapter, DRT, Gaines-Oliphant Restoration Fund, Rt. 4, Box 122, Hemphill, TX 75948.