Dr. Sam Monroe, president of the Port Arthur Historical Society, believes the Community Retirement Home on Procter Street in Port Arthur was a first of its kind before assisted living facilities were found everywhere.

The text for the 2012 historical marker is as follows:

Community Retirement Home in 1944, a group of citizens discussed establishment of a retirement home in Port Arthur. Federated Mission Society members from several churches served on the board of directors. Incorporated as the Community Retirement Home on August 28, 1944, the board purchased the Model Apartment Building on Procter Street for residents. Work began in 1970 to replace the main service building and add a kitchen, dining and administrative facilities and living areas.

In December 1988, Dr. John White donated his former office building on the adjacent lot.

The Community Retirement Home is a nonprofit residence, receiving no state or federal funding but operating by resident fees, donations, memorial and fund drives.

David Ball: 409-721-2427