1876

1940's

In 1950, Anna hosted the first Antiques Show at the Read House to raise funds for the museum.

1949

1951

In the early 1900s, Anna made Chattanooga her home and remained there for the rest of her life. She began her many business ventures by opening a millinery and ready-to-wear women's clothing store, later expanding to owning property that she rented to students. She also ran her own antique store, filled with furniture, glassware, textiles, and more.

In 1949, Anna met local lawyer Blaine Buchanan, who assisted her in founding a non-profit to bring her dream of establishing a museum for her collection to life. She enlisted 100 community members to help create the non-profit organization dedicated to preserving her world-class collection for future generations.

1900's - 1910's

1961

After the Great Depression, Anna moved to the East Ridge neighborhood of Chattanooga where she built a barn to house her growing antiques collection. Over the years, Anna collected more than 15,000 pieces of glassware, pottery, textiles, music boxes, and furniture — each a functional object, now celebrated as decorative arts.

Although there are no official records indicating Anna May Safley’s place of birth, she is believed to have been born in Evening Shade, Arkansas, as the first of eleven children in 1876.

Anna set off on an adventurous journey across the United States, traveling by train to places like California, Colorado, and even Canada. Along the way, she worked as a buyer at iconic stores such as Marshall Field's in Chicago and Macy's in New York City. Anna was also part of a traveling group known as "The Sullivan Sisters," who showcased hair tonic at events across the country. These experiences left a lasting impression on Anna and played a significant role in shaping her life's path.

1920's

In 1961, the Houston Antique Museum opened to the public, showcasing Anna's world-class collection of decorative arts at the Chapin House in the Bluff View Art District.

Anna married Jimmy Houston and became Anna Safley Houston. They were married for 16 years.

1968

In 1968, the community came together once again, this time to donate the property and house at 201 High Street, giving The Anna Safley Houston Museum its permanent home. Today, this 1890s house is the oldest in the Bluff View Art District.

When you visit, you’ll step inside the remarkable collection that Anna built all on her own. As you explore, you’ll not only see the antiques she gathered while traveling across the country by train, but also connect with the historical periods and cultures of these fascinating objects. 

In 1951, following a period of declining health, Anna Safley Houston unfortunately passed away. In the wake of her passing, community members came together to clear out her barn and lay the groundwork for the museum. Additionally, flea markets were organized on-site to support the ongoing fundraising efforts.

1950