Interest is surging in the restoration of La Maison Beausoleil, a historic Cajun house located in Port Neches, Texas. Originally built in 1810, the house has become a symbol of Cajun heritage and community spirit. Recently, city leaders expressed concern over the house’s deteriorating condition, highlighting the need for significant repairs.
The home, affectionately known as the House of Beautiful Sunshine, was transported to Port Neches in the mid-1980s, where it has served as a museum showcasing Cajun history. The property was donated to Les Acadiens du Texas by the descendants of Joseph Broussard, a notable figure in Cajun culture. Since then, it has provided educational experiences, with docents demonstrating traditional crafts like spinning and weaving.
Unfortunately, Les Acadiens du Texas has faced challenges in maintaining its operations. The organization has seen a decline in active members, prompting discussions about regaining its former status as a non-profit. While a non-profit designation is not essential for a lease agreement with the city, it would aid in securing funding opportunities for restoration efforts.
During a recent meeting of the Port Neches City Council, Karen Mills, a representative of Les Acadiens, expressed the group’s eagerness to revitalize its mission. City Manager Andre Wimer clarified that the organization was under the impression of a long-term lease with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, but city records indicated a different agreement between the city and the group.
Troy Broussard, a descendant of the Broussard family, voiced his commitment to restoring La Maison Beausoleil. He envisions the house as a center for educating the public about the cultural, economic, and social contributions of the Cajun community in Southeast Texas. Broussard also proposed the idea of hosting a Cajun festival in the city to further promote local heritage.
The building features unique architectural elements, including bousillage insulation made from river mud, moss, and deer hair, as well as flooring made from sinker cedar logs dating back to the 1800s. Despite its historical significance, the house is not eligible for official historic designation due to its relocation.
Former docent Cheryl Reese, whose mother was a founding member of Les Acadiens, reminisced about the many visitors who showed interest in Cajun history. “We saw many people come through that were very interested,” she recalled. Reese emphasized the importance of educating younger generations about their heritage, a sentiment echoed by Leona Michelle (Leger) Lawless, another direct descendant of Joseph Broussard.
With renewed interest and community support, the city attorney, Stephen Townsend, has been tasked with drafting a new lease agreement with Les Acadiens du Texas. Discussions regarding the organization’s non-profit status are also underway, with hopes that revitalization efforts will soon take shape.
La Maison Beausoleil stands not only as a historical site but also as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Cajun community. As efforts to restore the house gain momentum, it promises to become a vibrant educational hub, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Cajun heritage in Texas.
