McFaddin-Ward House Museum Welcomes New Executive Director

Beaumont, TX; Mar. 4, 2025 – After a nationwide search, the McFaddin-Ward House Museum welcomes Jeffrey Richardson as the museum’s new executive director.

“It is my great pleasure to announce Jeffrey Richardson as the McFaddin-Ward House Museum’s next executive director,” said McFaddin-Ward House Museum Board President Leslie Wilson. “Jeffrey’s wealth of experience and unique skill set will be wonderful assets and make him an ideal leader to begin our new chapter for the museum. We all look forward to his dynamic energy and leadership for many years to come!”

With an extensive background in museum management and historic preservation, Richardson has held key positions at a diverse range of cultural institutions across the country, from regional history museums and historic houses to Native cultural centers and public gardens. He is the author of two books, “Colt: The Revolver of the American West” and “Howard Hughes and the Creation of Modern Hollywood,” and has appeared as an expert commentator on over a dozen television programs, including “Mysteries at the Museum,” “Pawn Stars,” “Storage Wars” and “History Detectives.”

“I’ve always been passionate about all aspects of history and preservation,” Richardson said. “An internship at a museum started me on a professional journey that has taken me across the country, to cities big and small, urban and rural. Regardless of the location, community engagement and the visitor experience have been at the forefront of my career.”

A graduate of the University of Florida and Georgia Southern University, Richardson began his career as the curator of Western history, popular culture and firearms at the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles. He later served as the curator of exhibits for the municipal museum system in Farmington, New Mexico.

Shifting into administration, Richardson took on the position of director of operations at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History outside Atlanta. Most recently, as the director of operations for Historic Columbia in South Carolina, Richardson managed daily activities across six historic buildings, including a National Historic Landmark and 14 acres of manicured landscapes spread over 10 city blocks.

“I am honored and humbled to use my professional experience to lead the McFaddin-Ward House Museum,” Richardson said. “I look forward to working with the talented staff and dedicated board as we build upon past success to enhance this remarkable institution’s impact in the community and expand its reputation across the region by spotlighting our shared cultural and historical heritage.”

Built in 1905-1906 in the distinctive Beaux-Arts Colonial style, the McFaddin-Ward House reflects the lifestyle of the prominent family that lived in the house for 75 years. The museum features admission-free tours, educational programming, year-round events, a carriage house exhibit, and gardens.

For more information, call 409-832-2134 or visit mcfaddin-ward.org.