I recently visited the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in Waco, Texas, and was blown away by the rich history and stunning architecture of this beautiful home. Built in 1858, this historic house has been a fixture in the Waco community for over 150 years and has played an important role in the city’s development.
The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, built in 1858 by John Baylis Earle, was one of Waco’s earliest brick homes. Later sold to the Napier family, it underwent several additions and renovations. In 1969, the Historic Waco Foundation purchased the house and opened it to the public as a museum, where visitors can learn about the rich history of the house and the city of Waco.
Historical Significance: Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in Waco
The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in Waco, Texas, is a historic home that has played a key role in the city’s history. John Baylis Earle, one of the early settlers of Waco Village, built the house in 1856.
Early Inhabitants and Construction
Earle purchased a double log cabin on five acres of land for $1,000, and two years later, he built a two-room brick home on three of the acres. John Baylis Earle built the house in the Greek Revival style, which was popular at the time. In 1868, Dr. John Smith Napier and his wife, Mary, expanded the original two rooms into a larger home.
Civil War and Ownership Legacy
During the Civil War, Earle manufactured Confederate uniforms in a mill that he built on the property in 1861. Reverend David C. Kinnard, Jr. and his wife, Miss Mary Kinnard, purchased the house in 1903 after it had changed ownership several times over the years. The house remained in the Kinnard family for over 70 years, and it was during their ownership that the house became known as the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House.
Preservation and Recognition
In 1975, the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The house has undergone extensive restoration and preservation efforts over the years, and it is now open to the public for tours. Waco has preserved and recognized the house, along with several other historic homes, for their historical significance.
Overall, the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House is a testament to the early settlers of Waco and the history of the city. Its preservation and recognition as a historic landmark is a reminder of the importance of historic preservation and the value of historic homes in our communities.
Architectural Features: Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in Waco
Design and Structure
John Baylis Earle, originally from Tennessee, constructed the beautiful Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in East Waco in the late 1850s. Built in the Greek-Revival Style, the house features bricks made on site. Consequently, it stands as one of the earliest brick homes in Waco. The house has a symmetrical facade with a central entrance and two-story columns on the front porch.
The entrance hall of the house is particularly impressive, with its ornate woodwork and Lincoln Rocking Chair. The South Parlor is also noteworthy, with its high ceilings and intricate ceiling lamp.
Interior Highlights
The interior of the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House is filled with beautiful and unique architectural features. The entrance hall, which features a beautiful staircase, is a highlight of the house. The South Parlor is also impressive, with its beautiful ceiling lamp and intricate woodwork.
One of the house’s most fascinating features is the Lincoln Rocking Chair, reputedly used by President Abraham Lincoln during his visit to Waco in 1860. Additionally, this historical artifact adds a unique charm to the house, further enriching the visitor experience. The chair is located in the entrance hall and is a popular attraction for visitors to the house.
Overall, the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House beautifully exemplifies Greek-Revival architecture, showcasing a variety of unique and interesting architectural features. Additionally, its design seamlessly integrates elements that captivate and inspire visitors.
Cultural Impact and Education: Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in Waco
As a historic house museum, the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House has made a significant cultural impact on Waco Village and McLennan County. The house has been meticulously preserved and restored to its original state, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the past. Moreover, it provides an enriching opportunity to learn about the history of Waco.
Museum and Tours: Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in Waco
The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House Museum offers guided tours of the house and its grounds. Visitors can learn about the history of the house and the people who lived there, as well as the history of Waco and the surrounding area. The museum also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and children’s activities.
Community and Events: Earle-Napier-Kinnard House in Waco
The community values the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House as an important part of its heritage. Consequently, it is often used as a venue for community events. The house and its grounds are available for private events, such as weddings and receptions, and the museum hosts a variety of public events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations and festivals.
The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House is also an important resource for educators and students. The museum offers educational programs for students of all ages, including field trips and curriculum-based programs. Baylor University in Waco partners with the Historic Waco Foundation to offer students opportunities to learn about local history and culture.
The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House Museum serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Waco and McLennan County. Furthermore, it offers a wealth of information and exhibits that provide deeper insights into the region’s past. The museum provides visitors with a unique and educational experience, and its impact on the community is significant.
