We Need Your Help: Crockett County Historical Commission Launches “Save the Emerald House” Campaign
Written by: Dr. Laura Graves
The Crockett County Historical Commission welcomed a roomful of Ozona citizens united in their desire to “Save the Emerald House.” The meeting convened at 6:00 p.m. on February 5, 2026, in the Crockett County Youth & Civic Center. Details of the commission’s plans were presented. Support for the plans was unanimous and enthusiastic.
The Emerald House, built in 1889, is the oldest surviving structure in Crockett County. Originally located in the ghost town of Emerald, about six miles from Ozona, the house was moved to Ozona two years later. From the early 1890s to the early 1980s, the Emerald House was located on the corner of 11th Street and Avenue F. A number of families called the Emerald House home. It was then moved to the Crockett County rodeo grounds and, until recently, it was used as a community meeting place.
The Historical Commission is working to preserve and restore the Emerald House so it may once again serve our community. “Our vision is to rehabilitate the property and transform it into a shared space for local nonprofits, community gatherings, meetings, heritage programming, and cultural events,” Alma Martinez, President of the Crockett County Historical Commission, said. Others in the meeting echoed her sentiments with recollections of parties attended and meetings held at the Emerald House in its present location.
In the spring of 2025, Preservation Texas, a non-profit historical restoration firm, examined the Emerald House and proclaimed the Emerald House to be structurally sound and in need of two things: a better location and cosmetic remodeling.
To this end, the Historical Commission announced a phased approach to accomplish this. The plans include structural stabilization and relocation, exterior and interior restoration and remodeling, and landscaping.
The goal is for the Emerald House to become a shared space for local non-profit organizations, a venue for community events and meetings, an educational site for heritage programs, as well as a cultural and historical resource for residents and visitors.
To enable work to progress, the commission has created a number of different donor categories and incentives designed to get as many Crockett County citizens involved in saving the Emerald House.
Questions, comments, and donations can be made by contacting any of the Crockett County Historical Commission board members, whose contact information is also located on the website.
Public Meeting Q&A
- What is the Emerald House and why is it historically significant?
The Emerald House, built in 1889, is one of the oldest surviving structures in Crockett County. It reflects early settlement history and is tied to multiple prominent local families. Restoring it preserves an important piece of community heritage. - Why does the house need to be moved?
The current location is no longer viable for long-term preservation and community use. Moving the home ensures structural stability, protects it from further deterioration, and allows it to be placed where it can serve the public as a shared community space. - Is moving the house safe? Will it damage the building?
Professional structural movers use specialized techniques to support and stabilize historic buildings during transport. Engineering assessments will guide the stabilization process to ensure the home is safely relocated with minimal risk. - How long will Phase I (stabilization and relocation) take?
Phase I is expected to run through June 2026. This covers structural stabilization, preparation for transport, moving the house, and securing it at its new location. - What will the restored Emerald House be used for?
Plans include using the property as a shared community resource—hosting nonprofit meetings, small events, educational programs, heritage exhibits, and other public gatherings. - How will this project be funded?
Funding will come from grants, private donations, local supporters, and potential matching funds. A donor campaign—Save the Emerald House—is underway, with clearly defined donor tiers and recognition options. - Are county tax dollars being used for this project?
At this time, the project’s restoration efforts are planned to rely primarily on grants and private donations. Any proposed county expenditure would require approval by the Commissioners Court and would be discussed publicly. - What grants are being pursued?
The Commission plans to pursue multiple preservation grants, including state-level programs such as the Texas Historic Preservation Trust Fund, along with private foundation funding and heritage-focused grants. - How can residents get involved or donate?
Residents can support the project through direct donations, pledges, in‑kind contributions, volunteer work, and by spreading awareness. A pledge form and donor tiers are available through the Commission. - Will the public have opportunities to provide input?
Yes. Public input is always welcome during Commission meetings, and additional community listening sessions may be scheduled as the planning progresses. The Commission encourages public feedback and participation.
How You Can Help
Save the Emerald House Campaign Donor Levels & Pledge Form
As presented by the Crockett County Historical Commission February 5, 2026.