Texas Now Magazine Presenting the "Texas Coast Experience" | Page 29

George being the clever guy he was, designed the
home to have interior gas, central heating and flushtoilets, which almost unheard of in Texas at that time.
His mind always going, George began introducing new
crops to the area, and helped set in motion changes in
agriculture and livestock breeds that still bear his mark
throughout South Texas. As president of the ColemanFulton Pasture Company, George turned his attention to
the railroad coming into Texas; directing his company’s
attention toward the future, plans were laid out for the
towns of Sinton and Gregory. After his death the town of
Taft was also established. The Coleman-Fulton Pasture
Company played a large role in establishing three towns
in San Patricio County and set a pattern for turning
ranchland into individual farms.
George Ware Fulton died at 83 years of age, at his
home on October 30, 1893. He was buried in Rockport

and in 1936 the Texas
Centennial Commission
placed a monument to
him at his home, Oakhurst.
Today, visitors explore the
Fulton Mansion’s first two floors
including the impressive parlor,
dining room and original master
bedroom. Tours offer a rare glimpse
into the world of a prominent local family
at a time when interior gas, central heating
and flush toilets were not the norm. The grounds
around the house are always open to the public and
provide visitors with a beautiful view every day.
Having survived over 130 years and eight major
storms, the house is a testament to perseverance, the
realization of a true American dream and the cultural
lifeblood of its community. ✯

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