Beaumont Heritage Society

The John Jay French Museum demonstrates the life of a prosperous Texas pioneer family from 1845-1865. The historic pioneer settlement, built by John Jay French, tanner and merchant, is replete with antique furnishings, clothing and pioneer household utensils. Outbuildings on the grounds include a blacksmith shop, tannery, privy and smokehouse. The John Jay French house is the oldest house in Beaumont that has been restored to it's original state. Built in 1845, the home is one of the 1st two-story homes, one of the 1st made with milled lumber, and one of the 1st painted homes in the area.