The Old Sixth Ward, one of Houston's most beloved historic neighborhoods, was settled in the mid-to-late 19th century. Its principal developer was W.R. Baker, president of the Houston & Texas Central Railroad and mayor of Houston; many early residents of Old Sixth Ward were railroad workers. The early residents also included a number of skilled craftsmen who decorated their cottages with folk Victorian ornamentation.
The tour includes the former homes of cosmetics queen Mary Kay Ash and famed boogie-woogie pianist Peck Kelley, the inspiration for the hit song "Beat Me, Daddy, Eight to the Bar." The tour also visits St. Joseph's Catholic Church, which was rebuilt after the great storm of 1900. Old Sixth Ward is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated a City of Houston historic landmark.
Tickets will be sold from 5:30 to 6 p.m. at Old Sixth Ward Community Park, Lubbock and Trinity streets. [map] Street parking is available for free on Sundays along Lubbock and side streets, but remember to observe parking restrictions. Please note that this tour will not visit the interiors of any private homes and rest rooms will not be available.
