ETBA History

The "50's" are called the "Golden Years". And while no member has been in ETBA for 55 years, a few have been around long enough to remember most of those years quite well. Of course, we usually don't admit it!

In April 1954, 22 builders and 9 associate members applied for a charter as a new association affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders and the Texas Association of Builders. May 15, 1954, four counties... Gregg, Harrison, Rusk and Upsher... were named to the new Longview Home Builders Association. Harvey Little was elected the first President. In that very first year, the association was encouraged by NAHB to conduct a Parade of Homes™ as their initial project. They did, exhibiting four homes in the Fall of 1954, starting an annual event that has continued for 55 years.

Floyd Huddleston was the first Executive Officer, serving until his death in 1974. Jimmie Snider was his assistant for 4 years before he passed on. Mrs. Snider has been the Executive Officer since 1974.

In 1980, the Longview Home Builders changed their name to the East Texas Builders Association, adding Camp, Marion and Panola counties to its jurisdiction. From the original 31 members in 1954, ETBA has grown to over 390 members this year.