Herbert Wells 1924-2010

by | Jan 9, 2011

One of the founding members of the Contemporary Handweavers of Texas (Houston Chapter) passed away in Houston on December 23, 2010 after a long illness.

Herbert Wells was most famous for his career in interior design. When he moved to Houston from Hartford, CT in 1949 his background was in window display design. He opened Wells Design and was a milliner which led to a long career design. In 1949 he was involved at another design shop run by Thurman Hewitt, called Houston House. It was there, along with Margaret Sheppard, and others that the Contemporary Handweavers of Texas was founded. Back in 1999, I went to Mr. Wells home to interview him. He was a very private person and would not think of having his interview videotaped, or even a photograph taken. I do remember feeling quite honored to be in his beautiful home even for the briefest visit. He was very immersed in the design world and was unaware that the weavers guild he help found was still going strong. He was pleased to learn that we were having our 50th anniversary celebration. Thank you Herbert Wells, it was a pleasure to have met you.

A memorial service will be held in January. Date to be announced.

DeeDee Woodbury
CHH/CHT