River Oaks Garden Club Forum of Civics, Neoclassical school building in Upper Kirby district, Houston, United States.
The River Oaks Garden Club Forum of Civics is a neoclassical building at 2503 Westheimer Road in Houston, south of the River Oaks neighborhood in the Upper Kirby district. It was built in 1910 as the John Smith County School and remodeled by architect John F. Staub as the headquarters of the Forum of Civics, the organization founded by Will Hogg.
The building began as a school in 1910 and underwent significant redesign by architect John F. Staub to become the Forum of Civics headquarters. This transformation maintained the neoclassical character while adapting the spaces for a new civic and educational purpose.
The grounds serve as a gathering place where Houston residents come together for educational programs and community events focused on plants and gardening. Visitors notice how the landscaped areas invite informal socializing and reflection among neighbors throughout the year.
The gardens remain open to visitors year-round, and the property can be rented for private events and celebrations. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through the various garden areas and pathways at a leisurely pace.
The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 13, 1988, under the name "Forum of Civics." It is also a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. The 1910 schoolhouse was remodeled by John F. Staub for the Forum of Civics, an organization founded by Will Hogg.
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