Before this house became part of our story, it belonged to the family who appears to have started it. Our research indicates that J. C. Shepherd, a Shreveport plastering contractor and builder, likely constructed the home around 1915 and lived here with his wife, Katie Stricklin Shepherd. More than a century later, we are still uncovering little pieces of their story and the mark they left on this old house.
These historic clippings offer a glimpse into the life and work of J. C. Shepherd and his connection to our home.
The Shepherd connection lasted for decades, eventually continuing through Johnson Cram Shepherd Jr. before the property left the family in 1957.
And I have to admit, knowing that the man who may have built this house also lived inside these very walls makes me look at every old door, window, staircase, and bit of trim a little differently. I find myself wondering, “Did J. C. choose that himself?” Those are the little mysteries that make researching an old house so much fun.
A Little Look Back
A few photographs and records from the house’s earliest chapters.