By Jason Jones
PALESTINE – Mankind is naturally a somewhat arrogant species . We tend to view things through the lens of our own span of time on this planet , oftentimes overlooking or taking lightly the things that were here before us and will likely still be here long after we ’ re gone .
As far as I know , none of us here today were around twelve dozen years ago when the Bowers Mansion was constructed . Having had friends on South Magnolia Street , I have driven past the amazing piece of architecture hundreds of times , rarely taking notice or acknowledging what a beautiful jewel I was seeing .
Over the years , discussion regarding the Bowers Mansion has inevitably gravitated to its unfortunate history and paranormal repute . While I have no intention of focusing on those aspects , that history is significant and worth a mention .
The Bowers Mansion was built in 1878 for Prussian-born merchant Henry Ash and his wife Amelia Emilie Ash . It was later bought by Anthony L . Bowers , one of Palestine ’ s most prominent citizens . Bowers was superintendent of bridges and buildings for the I & GN railroad , as well as a four-time mayor of Palestine and owner of the Palestine Salt & Coal Company .
Tragically in 1956 , Bowers murdered his wife , Mary , and then shot himself as police made their way up the path to enter the home .
Almost seven decades later a light buzz still surrounds this beautiful house with its sad history . Many have claimed to see and hear things that would support the idea of a haunting . Personally , I found the haunting to be of a far different nature .
Upon meeting the Bowers Mansion owner , Jayne Reeser , I relayed my desire to share the story of the house , and I was graciously shown around the property .
“ Right now we are simply trying to save what is here and prevent further deterioration ,” Reeser said . “ There are days when it feels overwhelming , but most days it just feels wonderful to see small parts come back to life .”
The project , which Reeser took on with her daughter , Morgan Reeser , is simply a labor of love for the mother-daughter duo .
“ I think I ’ d be hesitant to call it a restoration at this point ,” Reeser said . “ We operate as our budget allows , and I think it would be a disappointment to those who would want to see speedy progress on such an iconic place .”
After a few minutes of visiting and discussing our mutual appreciation of old architecture , I eventually heard the words I ’ d waited decades to hear . “ Would you like to see inside ?” I rank this question among others such as “ Would you like to drive this Ferrari ?” or “ Would you enjoy an all-expense paid trip to Cabo ?”
I could feel my heart rate increase as we stepped inside . The hours I ’ d spent watching Brett Waterman restore historic homes on TV were suddenly paying off as the tiniest of details were unable to escape my attention .
Free from modern designs and conveniences , the science and engineering of the times becomes evident as you begin piecing together the clues . Central air was not a thing in 1878 . And while
Side-by-side comparison of The Bowers Mansion . COURTESY PHOTO | PALESTINE HERALD-PRESS
the house feels open and airy , it is a far cry from the open concept homes being built today . Subsequently , the gorgeous cupola perched atop the house , in conjunction with the beautiful transom windows atop every doorway , ensured that a wonderful breeze kept the house comfortable . That cupola is also reportedly the first of its kind in Palestine .
The house is a Queen Anne style design , and incorporates Italianate features . Details are everywhere , from hand-carved corbels to beautifully laid oak and pine flooring . Beveled glass adorns the sleeping porch on the second floor and ornate gingerbread trim is everywhere .
The feeling was almost as if I ’ d been invited to visit a silent film star , dressed to the nines and wearing all her most elaborate jewelry . And she was stunning .
As beautiful as she is , she is also a massive undertaking , but one with a reward around every corner .
With a few spots outside sporting replacement siding , ideas for exterior paint are visible .
“ We plan to change the color of the house , but we are doing our research ,” Reeser said . “ We want it to be period correct and historically correct for the house .”
While it won ’ t be finished this week , it ’ s easy to see that this historic gem is not only in good hands , but in very caring hands .
Is the Bowers Mansion haunted ? Absolutely . The house holds many memories and is a stunning example of the architectural marvels that are all over Palestine . One would have to work quite hard to miss what the Bowers Mansion has to say and show . But this grand lady was here long before us . Now it seems as if she will be around long after we ’ re gone .
PALESTINE MAGAZINE | SPRING 2022 | 27