Monte Verdi Estate, Rusk County, TX — A Historic Hilltop Property with an Unflinching Past

Overview

Monte Verdi is a nationally recognized historic estate in East Texas. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it sits on just over 100 acres of the original 10,721-acre plantation. The property is offered at $1.59 million.

Acknowledging the History

This land was once the heart of a large plantation operated through the forced labor of approximately 80 enslaved people. The estate includes three Texas Historical Markers, among them a 2018 marker dedicated to the Monte Verdi Plantation Family Slaves under the theme “We Say Their Names.” The marker and archives ensure the generations who lived and labored here are remembered.

Historical Context & Timeline

• 1856: Monte Verdi completed for Julien Sidney Devereux.
• 1860s: After Devereux’s death, Sarah Devereux maintained the estate through the Civil War despite heavy Confederate taxes.
• Early 1900s: Property leaves the Devereux family; acreage begins to be sold in parcels.
• 1958–1961: Mr. and Mrs. E.F. Lowry purchase the site and lead a three-year restoration.
• 1967: The on-site Birdwell House (an 1844 log cabin relocated to Monte Verdi) receives a Texas Historical Marker.
• 2018: Descendants of enslaved families gather for a ceremony honoring their ancestors, supported by plantation records.

Extensive Devereux family papers—archived at the University of Texas—document the plantation’s scale and operations and help connect descendant families today.

Architecture & Setting

“Monte Verdi” (Italian for “Green Mountain”) is a Greek Revival residence positioned on a prominent hilltop. From the upper gallery, there are long views across four counties. The main house retains numerous original details while incorporating thoughtful updates for modern living.

Residences & Structures

Main House (c. 1856) — approx. 2,800 sq ft

• 3 bedrooms, 2 baths.
• Notable features: original architectural details, generous rooms, and an upper gallery capturing panoramic views.

Birdwell House (1844 log cabin; relocated)

• Functions as a guesthouse with 2 bedrooms and two fireplaces.
• Holds its own Texas Historical Marker (1967).

Additional Guest Quarters

• A third, separate guest space adds flexibility for visitors, staff, or multi-generational living.

Restoration & Care

After decades of decline, the Lowry restoration (1958–61) stabilized and revived the mansion. Subsequent stewardship has prioritized preservation alongside sensitive modernization, including updated systems and appliances.

Land & Lifestyle

The estate spans ~100 acres of rolling East Texas terrain. It invites ranching, recreation, or hobby farming. Nearby lakes and rivers support boating and fishing. Trails, open fields, and mature trees create a varied landscape for outdoor life.

Commemoration & Community

In 2018, Monte Verdi hosted a powerful gathering of descendants of the nearly 80 enslaved individuals recorded in plantation documents. Families traveled from Maryland, California, and beyond to honor their ancestors and, in many cases, meet relatives for the first time. The estate’s markers and archives continue to frame Monte Verdi as both a residence and a site of remembrance.

Opportunities for the Next Steward

Current owners Cecilia Koch (CENTURY 21 Heritage Realty) and Joe Koch describe Monte Verdi as uniquely versatile:

• Heritage stewardship: A rare opportunity to care for a landmark with deep historical significance and extensive documentation.
• Hospitality & events: The acreage, multiple dwellings, and dramatic setting lend themselves to an event venue or bed-and-breakfast (verify local zoning/permits).
• Multi-generational living: Two full residences plus additional guest quarters offer meaningful separation and flexibility.
• Working land: Space for small-scale ranching, hay, gardens, or conservation projects.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Price: $1,590,000
• Location: Hilltop site in Rusk County, Texas
• Acreage: Just over 100 acres (originally 10,721 acres)
• Main House: ~2,800 sq ft, 3 bed / 2 bath
• Guesthouse: Birdwell House (1844), 2 bedrooms, 2 fireplaces
• Additional Space: Separate third guest quarters
• Architecture: Greek Revival
• Historic Status: National Register of Historic Places; 3 Texas Historical Markers (including 2018 marker honoring enslaved families)
• Documented History: Devereux family papers archived at the University of Texas
• Built: 1856 (main house)
• Restoration: Major work by E.F. Lowry family, 1958–61
• Views: From upper gallery, vistas across four counties

Closing Perspective

Monte Verdi is more than an elegant historic home. It is a place where Texas prosperity and the brutal reality of slavery converged, and where remembrance now has a permanent voice. For the next owner, stewardship means honoring that history while shaping the estate’s future—whether as a private sanctuary, a heritage hospitality venture, or a multigenerational homestead—on a storied East Texas hill.