Public and Adult Group Tours
The Starrs of Maplecroft
Capacity: 5–50 people
Timing: 45 minutes, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Families $12, adults $5, seniors, veterans and teachers $3, children $2, ages 5 and under, free; Adult groups of 10+: $3 per person
Step through the doors of Maplecroft, the historic home constructed by Frank Starr in 1870, which stands as a symbol of the family’s enduring legacy. Witness the evolution of this residence and its profound significance across generations. This guided tour provides a captivating insight into the development of Marshall, shaped by the Starrs’ impactful endeavors in surveying, mapping, and promoting Texas land. Uncover the familial bonds that intricately weave the legacy of Dr. James Harper Starr, his son Frank, and subsequent generations.
Stroll Amongst the Starrs
Capacity: up to 50 people
Timing: 45 minutes, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Families $12, adults $5, seniors, veterans and teachers $3, children $2, ages 5 and under, free; Adult groups of 10+: $3 per person
Embark on a guided walking tour of the exterior grounds of the Starr Family Home, offering a journey through beautiful gardens and the fantastic architecture of the Starr Family Home Historic Site while immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant present of the neighborhood. Delve into the past as you compare historical photos with the present-day landscape, all while enjoying the fresh air.
Maplecroft Unveiled: A Self-Guided Journey
Capacity: up to 50 people
Timing: 30 minutes, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Cost: Families $12, adults $5, seniors, veterans and teachers $3, children $2, ages 5 and under, free; Adult groups of 10+: $3 per person
This self-guided tour traces the remarkable narrative of Dr. James Harper Starr, a pivotal figure in Texas history, and his son, Frank Starr. Born in 1809, Dr. Starr played diverse roles—from serving as Texas' Secretary of the Treasury to partnering with his son Frank in opening a land agency, actively contributing to the state's growth. The tour unveils the intricacies of the Starr family, spanning from Dr. Starr’s engagement with the General Land Office to Dr. Starr and Frank’s pivotal role in establishing their diverse business, James H. Starr and Son.
Maplecroft Meanderings
Capacity: up to 50 people
Timing: 30 minutes, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: no cost
Explore the informative text panels on the site grounds on this walking tour and unveil the intricate saga of the Starr family, spanning from Dr. Starr's involvement with the General Land Office, the father and son duo’s pivotal role in establishing the land agency, James H. Starr and Son, and their later generations.
School Tours
Directed Journey Through Historic Maplecroft
Grades: PreK–12
Capacity: 5–50 students
Timing: 45 minutes, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $1 per student. One chaperone for every 10 students is free. Additional adults are $3 per person.
Delve into an exploration of Maplecroft, the historic home constructed by Frank Starr in 1870, which stands as a symbol of the Starr family’s enduring legacy. On this guided tour, witness the evolution of this residence and its profound significance across generations. This guided tour provides a captivating insight into the development of Marshall, shaped by the Starrs’ impactful endeavors in surveying, mapping, and promoting Texas land. Uncover the familial bonds that intricately weave the legacy of Dr. James Harper Starr, his son Frank, and subsequent generations. Students will have this unique opportunity to explore primary resources in the form of physical objects such as everyday items like a working woodburning stove to revolutionary 19th century technology such as telegraph machines and the invention of Morse code.
Childhood Chronicles: Growing Up in the 19th Century
Grades: 3–12
Capacity: 5–50 students
Timing: 45 minutes, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $1 per student. One chaperone for every 10 students is free. Additional adults are $3 per person.
Explore the enchanting world of Victorian children as we delve into their daily lives, games, and upbringing. From charming nurseries adorned with vintage toys to tales of sibling bonds and educational endeavors, this tour paints a vivid picture of the joys and challenges faced by children that were born into families such as the Starrs in the 1800s. Wander through lovingly preserved homes where laughter and play once echoed through the halls. Our experienced guides share delightful anecdotes, revealing the nuances of parenting, education, and the unique pastimes that shaped the childhood experiences of the 19th century. As you immerse yourself in the past, discover the resilience and creativity of young minds amidst the backdrop of historical interiors.
Cogs and Contraptions: Exploring 19th Century Home Technology
Grades: 5–8
Capacity: 5–50 students
Timing: 45 minutes, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $1 per student. One chaperone for every 10 students is free. Additional adults are $3 per person.
This unique journey invites you to explore the marvels of Victorian ingenuity that transformed domestic life during the 1800s. From brass-and-iron contraptions to steam-powered wonders, this tour takes you on a captivating exploration of the innovative technologies that shaped households in the 19th century. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through a fascinating narrative, unraveling the secrets of timeless technologies. Compare historical artifacts to modern conveniences, providing a profound appreciation for the creativity and craftsmanship of the Victorian era. Whether you're an enthusiast of history, technology, or design, this offers a glimpse into the elegant world of 19th-century home innovations, where every brass beauty tells a story of progress, transformation, and the enduring legacy of Victorian marvels.
Heritage and Heroines: Women Who Shaped the 19th Century
Grades: 4–12
Capacity: 5–50 students
Timing: 45 minutes, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $1 per student. One chaperone for every 10 students is free. Additional adults are $3 per person.
Students will explore the stories of women who played pivotal roles in shaping the course of history as they navigate through the meticulously preserved spaces in Maplecroft, which once echoed with the laughter, struggles, and triumphs of 19th-century women. From home and hearth to the streets and workplaces, this tour offers an intimate look at the roles and contributions of the mothers, daughters, and community builders who left an enduring impact during this transformative era.
Tour Reservations
Tour reservations should be made at least two weeks in advance by calling 903-935-3044, emailing starr-family-home@thc.texas.gov, or completing this tour request form.
If your group is looking for a specialized tour experience, contact the site directly to inquire about customizing your tour.
Accessibility
The site is wheelchair accessible with the exception of the second floor of Maplecroft. Handicapped parking and handicapped-accessible restrooms are available on site.
Nearby Attractions
While you're in the area, visit these nearby sites:
- Caddo Lake State Park
- City of Marshall Historic Preservation & Main Street
- Gregg County Historical Museum
- Harrison County Historical Museum
- Jefferson Historical Museum
- Martin Creek State Park
- Michelson Museum of Art
- Texas and Pacific Railway Museum
For additional travel and history information, see the following resources: