A raccoon family has taken up residence in the attic of the historic John M. and Lottie D. Moore House in Richmond, Texas, according to the Fort Bend Museum. The discovery at the 143-year-old property prompted a lighthearted social media response from museum staff, who noted the animals skipped the leasing process entirely.
Raccoon Family Discovered in 1883 Richmond Historic Home
Staff at the Fort Bend Museum suspected uninvited animals were living in the structure after noticing unusual activity overhead. To confirm their suspicions, the museum’s associate director set up a game camera over the weekend, according to museum announcements. The device captured video footage of the animals scurrying through the attic spaces of the 19th-century building.
“Yes, they’re adorable. No, they did not sign a lease,” the museum stated in a Saturday Facebook post. Staff introduced the new inhabitants online under the moniker “Jimothy Moore and family.”
Balancing Wildlife Management with Historic Preservation
The property, located at 406 S. Fifth St. in Richmond, was built in 1883 for John Matthew Moore, a former member of the Texas House of Representatives and the U.S. House. Designated as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1962, the building was later added to the National Register of Historic Places in the early 2000s. Today, the site is owned and operated by the Fort Bend Museum.
“Caring for a nearly 150-year-old home means dealing with some not-so-glamorous parts of historic preservation too—including making sure unwanted guests don’t cause damage to the structure,” the museum noted in its public statement.
Did you know?
John Matthew Moore served in both state and federal legislatures, making his historic Richmond home a significant landmark for Texas political history before it transitioned into a museum property.
Safe Removal and Building Protection
According to the Fort Bend Museum, the animals will soon be safely removed from the Moore House to prevent structural damage to the historic timber and interior spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the John M. and Lottie D. Moore House located?
The historic home is located at 406 S. Fifth St. in Richmond, Texas, and is owned by the Fort Bend Museum.
When was the Moore House built?
The house dates back to 1883 and was constructed for John Matthew Moore.
What is happening with the raccoons in the attic?
According to the Fort Bend Museum, the four raccoons will be safely removed from the property to protect the historic structure from potential damage.
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