Morton-McCloy House Plaque

Set on the banks of the Brazos, the Morton-McCloy House Plaque whispers tales of early Texas settlers. The Morton-McCloy House Plaque stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the “Old 300.” These were the original Anglo-American colonists invited by Stephen F. Austin. Right here, at 402 North Second Street in Richmond, the story of the Morton and McCloy families intertwines with the history of Texas. William Morton and his family, part of the “Old 300,” operated Morton’s Ferry in the 1820s. The very core of the house behind this plaque likely dates back to the mid-1830s, built by the Mortons with hand-hewn, braced-frame construction. Imagine the Mortons, pioneers in this new land, ferrying people and goods across the river, their home a hub of activity. The house as we see it today, however, reflects changes made between 1873 and 1904. During this period, the Morton-McCloy House was under the ownership of Dr. John McCloy and his family. They transformed the original structure into its current L-shaped design, adding the distinctive three-bay front porch, the single-door entry with a transom, and the gable roof. The Morton-McCloy House Plaque details not only the architectural evolution but also the changing hands of ownership. Following the McCloys, the house became home to the families of Edgar Andrus and A. W. Whatley, each adding their own chapter to the story of this historic home. The Morton-McCloy House, commemorated by this plaque, offers a glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who shaped early Texas.