Waco, Texas is home to a variety of historic homes that tell the story of the city’s rich past. From grand mansions to modest homes, these properties reveal life in Waco’s past. As a Waco resident, I find their history and stories fascinating.
One of the most well-known historic homes in Waco is the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, which dates back to 1858. Moreover, the museum beautifully preserves this Greek Revival-style mansion and is now open to the public. Additionally, visitors can explore the home’s rooms, filled with period furniture, artwork, and artifacts, thereby offering a glimpse into the past.
This Italianate-style home, once Dr. Baylis Earle’s residence, is now a museum. Filled with antiques and artifacts, visitors can learn about the Earle family’s contributions to Waco’s history.
Earle-Napier-Kinnard House: Historic Homes in Waco
The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House is one of the most historically significant homes in Waco, Texas. Built in 1858 by John Baylis Earle, this early brick home is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture.
Despite several additions and renovations, the house retains its original charm. The Historic Waco Foundation preserves and operates it as a museum.
Visitors to the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House can learn about the rich history of Waco and the people who lived there. Furthermore, the museum showcases 19th-century furnishings and artifacts, including the original entrance hall ceiling lamp and the Lincoln rocking chair in the South Parlor. Therefore, if you love history or architecture, you should visit the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into the past and a testament to the enduring beauty of Waco’s historic homes.
McCulloch House: Historic Homes in Waco
I had the pleasure of visiting the McCulloch House during my tour of historic homes in Waco. The Historic Waco Foundation owns this house, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the area’s history and architecture.
Built in 1866 and expanded in 1870, the McCulloch House offers a glimpse into 19th-century Waco life. Josiah Caldwell, a Waco physician, built the house, and the McCulloch family later purchased it. Today, visitors can explore the history of the McCulloch family and their impact on the local community.
One of the most interesting features of the McCulloch House is its architecture. The house is a blend of different styles, including Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian. This unique combination of styles creates a visually stunning and historically significant building.
During my visit, I noticed the house’s interior’s attention to detail. Craftsmen have carefully crafted and well-preserved the intricate woodwork and beautiful stained glass windows. I particularly enjoyed the parlor, which features a stunning marble fireplace and a collection of antique furniture.
Anyone interested in the history and architecture of Waco must see the McCulloch House. Its unique blend of styles and well-preserved interior make it a true gem of the community.
East Terrace House: Historic Homes in Waco
I recently had the pleasure of visiting East Terrace House, one of the most iconic historic homes in Waco. This beautiful residence stands on the east bank of the Brazos River and boasts an Italianate style of architecture that is truly remarkable.
John Wesley Mann, a future industrialist, originally built the house when he moved to Waco from Lebanon, Tennessee in 1858. Mann raised horses until he enlisted in the Confederate Army in 1861. After the war, he returned to Waco and became a successful businessman, eventually building East Terrace House as his family home.
Today, East Terrace House is maintained by the Historic Waco Foundation and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the many rooms of the house, including the grand entrance hall, the formal dining room, and the cozy library. Moreover, beautiful antiques and artwork fill the house, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of a wealthy family in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Consequently, the East Terrace House provides a rich historical experience for all who visit.
One of the most impressive features of East Terrace House is the stunning view of the Brazos River from the back porch. Visitors can sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while taking in the beauty of the river and the surrounding landscape.
Overall, I highly recommend a visit to East Terrace House for anyone interested in the history and architecture of Waco. It is a beautiful and fascinating piece of local history that is not to be missed.
Fort House (Permanently closed): Historic Homes in Waco
Fort House is one of the most unique historic homes in Waco. It was built in the 1860s by William A. Fort, a wealthy businessman who came to Waco in 1854. The house is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture and features a distinctive octagonal shape.
One of the most interesting things about Fort House is its history. The house has been owned by several different families over the years, and each one has left its mark on the property. For example, the Earle-Napier-Kinnard family added a beautiful garden to the property in the early 1900s.
Furthermore, Chip and Joanna Gaines purchased Fort House from the Historic Waco Foundation in 2019. They restored it to its former glory, and it is now open to the public as a museum. Consequently, visitors can tour the house and learn about its history and the people who lived there.
Cottonland Castle: Historic Homes in Waco
John Tennant, a local stone contractor, built Cottonland Castle in 1890 after striking a deal with banker J.W. Mann.John Tennant, a local stone contractor, built the Gothic Revival-style castle with local limestone. Initially named Tennant Castle, it was later renamed Cottonland Castle due to its location in Waco’s cotton industry hub. Chip and Joanna Gaines featured the castle on “Fixer Upper” and restored it from disrepair to its former glory. It has a rich history and has appeared on several TV shows.Today, the castle is open for tours, and visitors can explore the picturesque surroundings of the Magnolia Silos on a behind-the-scenes grounds tour.
One of the most interesting features of the castle is its tower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The tower has four levels, each of which offers a different perspective on the castle and its surroundings. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and take in the breathtaking views of Waco and the surrounding countryside.
Overall, Cottonland Castle is a must-see destination for anyone interested in historic homes and architecture. The castle’s rich history, stunning Gothic Revival architecture, and beautiful surroundings make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
Earle-Harrison House: Historic Homes in Waco
I had the pleasure of visiting the Earle-Harrison House, one of the oldest and most well-preserved historic homes in Waco. Dr. Baylis Earle and his wife Eliza Harrison Earle originally built this beautiful antebellum building in 1858. It stands as the only restored antebellum building in Waco. The structure has endured more than most historic homes in Waco, as people have relocated, dismantled, and pieced it back together over the years.
The Earle-Harrison House exemplifies Greek Revival architecture, with nine cypress columns and longleaf heart pine exterior sheathing. The 5,000 square foot structure boasts fourteen-foot first-floor ceilings, walk-through windows, and a side-entry design. Period-appropriate furniture and decor furnish the home, adding to the authenticity of the experience.
The Earle-Harrison House now welcomes the public for tours, events, and weddings. You can also rent it for special occasions and corporate events. The property features 5+ acres of beautiful lawns and gardens, making it the perfect setting for outdoor events.
If you want to learn more about the history of Waco and experience a piece of the city’s past, I highly recommend visiting the Earle-Harrison House. Anyone interested in historic homes and architecture must see it.
The Rich Heritage of Waco’s Historic Homes
As a lover of history and architecture, I am fascinated by the rich heritage of Waco’s historic homes. These homes are not just beautiful structures but also serve as a window into the past, reflecting the city’s unique cultural heritage. In this section, I will discuss the significance of the Historic Waco Foundation and the various architectural styles and influences that have shaped Waco’s historic homes.
Significance of Historic Waco Foundation
The Historic Waco Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1967. Its mission is to preserve and promote Waco’s rich history and heritage through its historic house museums and educational events. The Foundation is the result of the merger and incorporation of three common interest groups: the Heritage Society, the Society for Historic Preservation, and the Duncan Foundation.
The Foundation has done an outstanding job of preserving Waco’s historic homes and educating the public about their significance. It has three historic houses that serve as museums, namely Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, Fort House, and McCulloch House. These houses offer visitors a glimpse into Waco’s past and showcase the city’s unique history and heritage.
Architectural Styles and Influences
Waco’s historic homes feature a wide range of architectural styles and influences. Some of the most common styles include Victorian, Greek Revival, and Craftsman. These styles were popular during different periods in history and reflect the tastes and preferences of the time.
Victorian homes showcase ornate details and elaborate decorations. They gained popularity in the late 19th century and feature steep roofs, decorative trim, and intricate patterns. Greek Revival homes draw inspiration from ancient Greek architecture and include columns, pediments, and symmetrical designs. They became popular in the mid-19th century and are known for their grandeur and elegance.
Craftsman homes, which gained popularity in the early 20th century, emphasize simple and functional design. They use natural materials such as wood and stone and highlight craftsmanship and quality. These homes have a cozy and inviting feel and often associate with the Arts and Crafts movement.
In conclusion, Waco’s historic homes are a testament to the city’s rich history and heritage. The Historic Waco Foundation has done a remarkable job of preserving these homes and educating the public about their significance. The various architectural styles and influences that have shaped these homes offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and reflect the unique cultural heritage of Waco.
Visiting and Supporting Historic Homes
As a lover of history and architecture, I highly recommend visiting the historic homes in Waco. Not only will you learn about the rich history of our city, but you will also be supporting the preservation and care of these beautiful homes.
Tour Information and Rates
Guided tours are available at the three historic homes operated by Historic Waco: East Terrace, Earle-Napier-Kinnard, and McCulloch House. The tours are led by knowledgeable and friendly docents who will take you through the homes and provide fascinating insights into their history and architecture.
General admission for each house tour is $10 per person, with discounted rates available for seniors and active military personnel. Children under 6 are admitted for free. If you plan to visit all three homes, I recommend purchasing a combined ticket for $25, which will save you money and give you access to all three homes.
Membership and Volunteer Opportunities
If you frequently visit historic homes, I highly recommend becoming a member of Historic Waco. Membership benefits include free admission to the homes, discounts on special events and programs, and a subscription to the organization’s newsletter.
Furthermore, if you want to support the care and maintenance of the historic homes, consider volunteering with Historic Waco. Volunteers lead tours, assist with special events, and help with maintenance and restoration projects.
Additionally, by visiting the historic homes and supporting Historic Waco, you help preserve Waco’s history and heritage for future generations to enjoy.
Educational Programs and Community Engagement
As a historic homes organization, we believe in the importance of educating the community about our city’s rich history and architecture. We offer a variety of educational programs and community engagement opportunities for people of all ages.
Events and Workshops
We host a number of events and workshops throughout the year to engage with the community and promote interest in historic homes. Our events include house tours, lectures by local experts, and workshops on topics such as historic preservation and architecture. We also offer special events for children, such as our Traveling Trunk program, which brings history to life with hands-on activities and artifacts.
Resources for Students and Educators
We offer discounted house tours for school groups and year-round field trips. Teachers can access educational materials, lesson plans, and activity ideas to help students learn about Waco’s history and architecture.
As an organization, we are proud to work with local experts such as Kenneth Hafertepe, an architectural historian who has written extensively on Waco’s historic homes. We believe that by working together, we can help preserve Waco’s rich history and architecture for future generations.
At Historic Waco, we believe that education is key to preserving our city’s history and architecture. We are committed to providing engaging and informative programs and events for people of all ages. Whether you are a student, educator, or simply interested in learning more about Waco’s history, we have something for everyone.
Conclusion: Historic Homes in Waco
As I researched the historic homes in Waco, I was struck by the rich history and diverse architectural styles present in this city. From the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, which witnessed Waco’s early days as a village, to the East Terrace House, which served as a storage unit before becoming a historic landmark, each home tells a unique story.
The efforts of the Historic Waco Foundation to preserve and showcase these homes particularly impressed me. Specifically, they operate four historic house museums, including the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, which offer visitors a glimpse into the captivating past of this city. Moreover, these museums provide an educational experience that highlights the rich cultural heritage of Waco. Consequently, visitors can appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of these preserved homes.
These historic homes clearly play an important role in Waco’s cultural heritage and deserve to be cherished and protected for future generations. Therefore, I hope my article inspires you to explore these homes and learn more about the fascinating history of Waco. Furthermore, by visiting and supporting these historic sites, you contribute to the preservation of Waco’s rich heritage. Consequently, your involvement helps ensure that these treasures remain for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
