Hezikiah Haskell House Plaque

Could it be possible that a spirit protected this house? This is the Hezikiah Haskell House. It stands before us, a testament to Clarksville’s rich history. Built around 1875, the Hezikiah Haskell House has seen a lot. Peter and Betty Tucker, former slaves, originally built the house. The Tuckers sold the house to Edwin and Mary Smith. Mary had a special role in her community. She was one of the founders of the Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church. In the early days, before they could afford their own building, the church held services right here in the house. Later, the house became the home of Hezekiah Haskell. He was a Union soldier and a Buffalo Soldier, and his wife Catherine. Their son Hezekiah Jr. lived and died in this very house. The Haskell family donated the home to the City of Austin in 1976. Legend has it the city planned to move the Hezikiah Haskell House. However, the spirit of Hezekiah Haskell himself appeared to the crane operator twice, warning him not to move his home. Whether a true story or a beloved piece of local lore, the Hezikiah Haskell House remains in its original location. It serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of Clarksville’s early residents.