One of Texoma’s hidden gems, Vinita, the historic home of T.V. Munson, is tucked into a quiet, unassuming neighborhood in Denison, Texas. This beautifully restored historic home is where one of the world’s most well-known viticulturists, Thomas Volney Munson, lived and worked to create the grapevines that ultimately saved the French wine industry. Today, the home celebrates the life and legacy of one of Texoma’s most important residents. In fact, it is likely that the French wine enjoyed around the world today exists only because of T. V. Munson and his expertise in viticulture.
Designated a Texas Historic Landmark in 1967, Vinita , built in 1887, was once the center of a sprawling 350-acre working vineyard and farm. Munson and his family lived in the home until his death in January 1913.
Robin Bogue, Viticulture and Enology Director and Professor at Grayson College, works to continue his legacy by preserving his vines and rootstocks and passing on the knowledge he perfected to future viticulturists, ecologists, and distillers. The Grayson College Enology, Viticulture, and Distilling programs are among the few educational programs in the country that offer degrees in grape growing and winemaking. In addition to directing the program, Bogue also offers guided tours of Vinita.
“I think it is so important to preserve and pass on the legacy of T. V. Munson and his life’s work and I can do this by teaching people about what he did. Vinita is perfect for showing people a snapshot of the life of one of the most important residents Denison and Texoma has ever had. Worldwide, T. V. Munson and his work is so well known. I hope to help pass on the importance of what he did for our community, our country and even the world. I want people to know and understand how important and historic his work was. His story definitely needs to be told and celebrated.”
Paula Jonse, Director of Development for the Grayson College Foundation, which was given the responsibility of caring for and offering tours of the T. V. Munson Vinita house, enjoys spending time at the home and sharing Munson’s legacy with visitors. Inside the house, guests can see original and period-correct furnishings and artifacts. Beautiful hardwood floors, vintage wallpaper, original glasswork, and historic photos can all be seen throughout the charming two-story home. The house even includes a cellar that was once used to store wine barrels.
Jonse is quick to point out the importance of Munson’s work. “Wine as we know it today would likely not be possible without the incredible work of Mr. Volney. I love to give the tours of the house because it gives visitors a glimpse of what it was like to live during that time period. T. V. Munson was a genius. He was a renaissance man. Not only was he an expert in viticulture but also an inventor, artist, naturalist and a scientist as well.” In fact, visitors can even see drawings of a flying machine that foreshadowed the modern helicopter displayed in the home.
Jonse also understands how important it is to continue sharing Munson’s story. “We want to create a great relationship with the community and help our visitors to realize the important work that took place here in Denison, Texas. Work that honestly changed the world. I hope to help bring Texoma and our community together to celebrate all that took place here at the Vinita house.”
Vinita, the home of T.V. Munson, is located at 530 W. Hanna Street in Denison, Texas. Tours can be scheduled by contacting the Grayson College Foundation Office at (903) 463-8766 or by email at jonsep@grayson.edu.