historic home tour dallas

• Our History
• Homes On Tour
• Park Cities Car Show
• Distinguished Speaker Luncheon
• Become a Member
• Landmarking Application
• Landmarked Homes
• A House For Texas
• Education Series
• Scholarships / Endowment
• Neighborhood Construction Rights

Park Cities Historic Home Tour

Historic Home Tour Returns After Pandemic Hiatus

Five homes in dallas' hollywood santa monica neighborhood association will open their doors for tours, by katy blakey • published september 30, 2022 • updated on september 30, 2022 at 12:15 pm.

A popular Dallas home tour returns after a two-year hiatus during the pandemic.

Five homes in the Hollywood Santa Monica Neighborhood Association will open their doors this weekend for the 29th annual home tour. This year’s tour will also feature two art studios.

A wine walk candlelight tour through the homes will take place Friday, September 30 th , with another opportunity to tour the homes on Saturday, October 1 st . For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here .

The East Dallas neighborhood was established in the 1920s and features an eclectic mix of design styles. It’s believed to be one of the largest collections of stone-embellished Tudor revival cottages in the country and is protected by one of the few Conservation Districts in Dallas.

Get DFW local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC DFW newsletters .

This article tagged under:

• The Woodlands

Hal Thompson's Italian Renaissance classic 4412 Lakeside Drive is a showstopper of an already standout tour.

Texas architect David Reichard Williams’ masterful work at 3805 McFarlin Boulevard, which was saved from the wrecking ball late last year.

At 7000 Vassar Avenue, the eclectic, Neoclassical home flanked by towering oak trees was designed by architect Gayden Thompson and builder C.B. Christensen for the Volk Family.

3400 Drexel Drive, built by prominent local builder Walter William Whitley in 1924, was recently brought back to life thanks to a recent renovation by its current owners.

3429 Drexel is distinguished by its elegant tiered landscaping and unusual interior.

"A House for Texas," written by local architect Larry Good and photographed by Charles Davis Smith, documents the meaningful design of the Elbert Williams House

The Return of a Top Dallas Home Tour Showcases Beautiful Park Cities Preservation

Celebrating historic architecture, an annual favorite makes a comeback this spring.

I f you’re prone to perusing luxury listings in Dallas, you’re probably familiar with the Elbert Williams House, or at least its unique Texas Modern façade. When 3805 McFarlin Boulevard hit the market in late 2019, the historic 1930s home was at risk of demolition (its 1.15-acre lot made it a unique commodity in the neighborhood). Fortunately, Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones saw the beauty in David Reichard Williams’ masterful work, which has been recognized as one of the most significant architectural achievements in our Texas history, and vowed to preserve the notable Park Cities estate.

This April, Rees–Jones are serving as the honorary chairs of the Park Cities Historic and Preservation Society ’s annual home tour, where — naturally — 3805 McFarlin will feature among the architectural gems from Vassar to Lakeside Drive.

Other highlights of the tour include 3400 Drexel Driv e, built by prominent local builder Walter William Whitley in 1924. The Colonial Revival-inspired work, with its symmetrical façade and accentuated doorway, was recently brought back to life thanks to a recent renovation by its current owners. Close by is an eclectic example of Italian Renaissance architecture at 3429 Drexel , distinguished by its elegant tiered landscaping and unusual interior.

On beautiful Lakeside Drive , Hal Thompson’s Italian Renaissance classic is a showstopper of an already standout tour. The oldest tour stop (the home is now 104) has been beautifully preserved thanks to its current owners, Jeffrey and April Manson, who helped ensure the Roman arch windows and a balustrade-lined terrace have remained in top form. And though the historic exterior remains in its purest form, the home’s interior is a color soaked sanctuary of modern art, sumptuous fabrics, and thoughtfully sourced antiques. (Keep an eye out for  PaperCity Dallas ‘ April issue for more about the Manson’s story.)

At 7000 Vassar Avenue , the eclectic, Neoclassical home flanked by towering oak trees was designed by architect Gayden Thompson and builder C.B. Christensen for the  Volk Family . Exterior highlights include four Roman Tuscan columns with Doric capitals. Inside, contemporary art rules the entryway—a large canvas by Ellsworth Kelley, one of Willem de Kooning’s abstract paintings, and an early Jackson Pollock all claim space along the entry walls.

Like most events over the past year, the Park Cities Historic Preservation Society’s home tour will look slightly different this year. The tour itself is entirely virtual. The event, featuring a to-be-announced narrator, begins at 10a.m. on Saturday, April 24, and will be available to watch for 48 hours. The annual Distinguished Speaker Luncheon and Classic and Antique Car Show, however, will take place (tentatively) in person this fall.

SHOP FOR MOM

Tickets are available online now for $20 each, or $250 for the Patron Porch Party level (which includes two home tour tickets, a copy of “A House for Texas” (documenting the meaningful design of 3805 McFarlin Boulevard), a Boxed Bites charcuterie board, festive cocktails from Pogo’s, a gift from Gardenuity , and more. Proceeds from the tour help preserve and maintain the Park Cities House at Dallas Heritage Village, support the new PCHPS archives at the University Park Library, fund the Society’s landmarking initiatives, award scholarships to Highland Park High School graduating seniors planning to study architecture or history and fund the Distinguished Chair for History at Highland Park High School.

Social in Security

Lessons from an etiquette ambassador.

Decoding the High-End Invitation — Our Etiquette Ambassador Breaks Down Everything from Weddings to Society Parties

How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day 2024 — 5 Tips from Talented Tastemakers

7 Modern Etiquette Rules to Live By in 2024

The Etiquette of Art Buying — How to Go From Newbie to Confident Collector

An Essential Guide to Concert Etiquette in 2023 — Performers, Producers, and Other Experts Weigh In

A Modern Etiquette Expert’s Guide to Dining Out, Optimized in 4 Insider Tips

Featured Properties

16503 Saddle Ridge Pass Cypress, TX

11015 Lakeside Forest Houston, TX

3029 Tangley West University, TX

2323 W Main St. Houston, TX

11610 Monica Bunker Hill, TX

Like PaperCity Dallas on Facebook

Beyond the magazine. Get more of Dallas’ top restaurant, real estate, society, fashion and art in your news feed.

Create a free account to save your favorite PaperCity content in one curated collection.

Email Address  *

Password  *

Create Account

Already have an account? Login

Login to your account

Remember me

Lost your password?

Don't have an account? Create Account

Create a free account to view all PaperCity recipes. Save all of your favorite content in one curated collection.

Get PC Daily delivered directly to your inbox – don't miss anything!

Search PaperCityMag.com

• 1515 South Harwood Dallas 75215
• 214-421-5141
• [email protected]

Join & Support

Maps & directions, hours & admission, about old city park.

15th Annual Junius Heights Historic Home Tour and Arts & Crafts Fair

Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. | Tickets $30 | Starts at Munger Park

Junius Heights Historic District will host the 15th Annual Historic Home Tour and Arts & Crafts Fair on Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The tour starts at Munger Park , where you will buy tickets for $30 or pick up your official Home Tour Guide at the ticket table in front of Garden Cafe. Current and new Junius Heights Historic District members will receive an additional $5 discount on tickets.

This year’s tour will boast seven historic homes and includes a “Living History Tour” at the famous Aldredge House at 1:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. We are celebrating the Age of the Automobile in this year’s tour and will feature various classic cars at each tour location. The former home of Jesse Illingsworth, who drove the first automobile in Dallas in 1898, will be on the tour.

New to this year’s tour – since Junius Heights IS the largest historic district in Dallas – we are offering complimentary golf cart shuttles between the Junius Heights tour homes and the Arts & Crafts Fair for your convenience.

We’d be remiss not to mention a few tour teasers. One tour home that is featured in this year’s tour was also featured in last year’s Restoration Tour and is now fully restored. Will you recognize it? Another tour home was recently on the AIA tour. One tour homeowner recently won the coveted State Fair of Texas Blue Ribbon for the quilt she lovingly made that depicts each of the neighboring homes on their street. Don’t miss seeing this amazing piece of artwork that will be on display in their home!

Enjoy a full day of live music and performances by local groups and schools and peruse amazing goods from local artisans and vendors at the Arts & Crafts Fair at Munger Park . Please join us for a full day of festivities!

Having Fun in the Texas Sun

Family friendly Texas Destinations

Historic Home Tours in Texas

Do you love to tour old homes?  Relive Texas history through the front door of each of these home tours across the state!

1.  Thistle Hill , Fort Worth The Cattle Baron’s mansion offers an Attic to Basement tour of Thistle Hill in Fort Worth’s Southside. Built in 1902 for the daughter of a cattle baron, Electra Waggoner Wharton, heiress of the Waggoner Ranch, and the namesake of the West Texas town of Electra. The 11,000 square foot mansion was incredible to see, and I really love the family history and admit to getting a little chill at the ghost story! Most of Fort Worth’s historic homes are gone, and it was really neat to see this one!

Tours Wed. – Fri. and Sun. without a reservation. Call for other days/times.

2 . Moody Mansion , Galveston

The 28,000 square foot home in Galveston was built before the 1900 Hurricane, and home to the wealthy Moody Family for over 80 years.  Tour 20 rooms, or take a private tour.

3.  Governor’s Mansion, Austin

The home of the Texas Governor since 1856, it is the 4th continuously used Governor’s Mansion in the state.

Tours are given year round, but require a week advance booking and pass a background check.

Click HERE for more information.

4 .  Historic Hyde Park Homes Tours, Austin

Once a year the historic neighborhood offers a tour of homes.

November 2019 on November 10th

5 . Neil Cochran House Museum, Austin

Experience Austin’s Antebellum Architecture in a tour of this historic home.

Tours are given year round.

6 . Sam Rayburn House, Bonham

Items from the life and times of Sam Rayburn, as well as seasonal events.

Tuesday – Saturday

7.  Park Cities Historic and Preservation Society Home Tour, Dallas

Virtual Tour for 2021

Click HERE for more information

8 .  Lakewood Home Festival, Dallas 

Click H ERE for more information

9 .  Swiss Avenue Historic District, Dallas 

Mother’s Day Home Tour TBD

10 .  AIA Dallas Home Tour, Dallas

October TBD

11.  Egypt Plantation

12.  Bishop’s Palace, Galveston

13.  Galveston Historic Homes Tour

May 4, 5, 11, 12 2019

14.  Liendo Plantation, Hempstead

15.  AIA Houston Home Tours

October 2019 TBA

16.  Bayou Bend, Houston

17.  Starr Family Homes, Marshall

18. W. H. Stark House, Orange

19.  Sam-Bell-Maxey House, Paris

20. Fulton Mansion, Rockport

21.  AIA Homes Tour, San Antonio

22.  Spanish Governor’s Palace, San Antonio

23.  Villa Finale, San Antonio

24.  McClendon House, Tyler

25.  Varner-Hogg Plantation, West Columbia

Keep Having Fun in the Texas Sun! Michelle

Having Fun in the TEXAS Sun is on PINTEREST! Use it as a quick resource to find activities in different Texas towns! Click  HERE !

© Having Fun in the Texas Sun, 2018. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Having Fun in the Texas Sun with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Share this:

Published by havingfuninthetexassun

View all posts by havingfuninthetexassun

Discover more from Having Fun in the Texas Sun

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Manage Account
• Website Survey
• Voter Guide
• Things to Do
• Public Notices
• Help Center

Save the dates for these 6 can’t-miss Dallas home tours

You can explore the city’s neighborhoods and architecture with spring events, including a centennial celebration for hollywood santa monica..

By Jann Mackey

10:32 AM on Mar 21, 2024 CDT

Whether you are an architecture aficionado, a history buff or a fan of seeing how other people live, this spring’s roster of home tours aren’t to be missed. From century-old houses to new contemporary residences designed by some of the city’s best architects, the homes on tour will give you a new appreciation for the neighborhoods of Dallas and their array of styles.

An Evening of Art & Architecture, celebrating the work of Frank Welch

When: April 3, 6-9 p.m. | Cost: $75 for individual admission, $125 for two tickets; purchase online .

Hosted by and benefitting Preservation Dallas, this special event includes a cocktail reception in the Janus House — a spectacular Frank Welch-designed, creek-side home in North Dallas. Celebrating this legendary architect’s work, the evening will include two speakers, one of whom worked on the renovation of the 6,300-square-foot home; the other speaker will discuss Welch’s body of work and his architectural legacy. Additionally, the home will feature artwork for sale from local galleries to coincide with the Dallas Art Fair and Dallas Art Month.

Sign up for the Abode newsletter for a weekly roundup of the latest home, design and real estate stories.

By signing up you agree to our  Terms of Service  and  Privacy Policy

White Rock Home Tour

When: April 20-21, noon-5 p.m. | Cost: Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 during the tour; purchase tickets on the White Rock Home Tour website .

Now in its 16th year, the White Rock Home Tour offers a self-guided tour showcasing five midcentury and newly constructed modern homes. Tour proceeds benefit Dallas ISD’s Hexter Elementary to bridge the budget gap and provide much-needed resources for students and teachers. Tickets are good for either or both days, but each tour home may be visited only once.

Hollywood Santa Monica Home Tour

When: May 3, 6-8 p.m.; May 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Cost: $35 for Candlelight Tour & Wine Walk on Friday night; $25 for standard tour on Saturday; purchase tickets on the Hollywood Santa Monica Home Tour website .

In honor of the Hollywood Santa Monica area’s 100th anniversary, the neighborhood association is presenting the Centennial Home Tour, including five homes from the 1920s and ’30s. It’s Hollywood Santa Monica’s 30th annual home tour event.

The weekend’s activities kick off Friday evening with a Candlelight Home Tour & Wine Walk. Sip complimentary wine provided by Times Ten Cellars at each home and nosh on hors d’oeuvres at the Preservation Dallas Showcase Home — a sixth property exclusive to the Candlelight Home Tour.

After the standard tours on Saturday, the festivities continue that night with a 1920s-themed Centennial Gala. With a $75 ticket, attendees will enjoy wine, dinner and live music at Times Ten Cellars, 6324 Prospect Ave.

Related: When renovating an older home, mind the details

Preservation Park Cities Home Tour

When: May 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Cost: $35, available online only; purchase tickets on the Preservation Park Cities website .

After years as a virtual tour, the Park Cities Home Tour is back in person, offering a glimpse into four historic homes. This year’s tour includes an impeccably restored Colonial Revival house, designed in 1921 by prominent Dallas architect Hal Thomson. In an era (and neighborhood) where teardowns are prevalent, the tour celebrates historic preservation and is designed to generate awareness of the role history and preservation play in the community.

Swiss Avenue Historic District Mother’s Day Home Tour

When: May 11, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; May 12, noon-6 p.m. | Cost: Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 during the tour; $65 for tour plus Sunday brunch; purchase tickets on the Swiss Avenue Historic District website and, beginning April 1, at select local retailers.

If arriving at a stately home in an elegant horse-drawn carriage is your Bridgerton dream come true, then make plans to attend the 51st annual Swiss Avenue Historic District Mother’s Day Home Tour. Six residences will open their doors to the public for a glimpse at how a historic home can be beautifully adapted to live in the 21st century. In addition to carriages transporting guests up and down Swiss Avenue (air-conditioned coaches are also available), festivities include food trucks, an art fair, live entertainment, a children’s play area and a gourmet brunch on Sunday.

Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy “Four Sisters” Home Tour

When: May 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Cost: $45; purchase tickets on the Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy website .

The Dilbeck Architecture Conservancy was founded in 2022 to preserve the architectural legacy of Charles Stevens Dilbeck, perhaps the quirkiest and most whimsical architect ever to work in Dallas. The “Four Sisters” tour will focus on four historic Dilbeck homes on a four-corner intersection in University Park. These charming and unique French farmhouse residences are symbolic of the lasting beauty and appeal of Dilbeck’s design talents.

Jann Mackey

UT Dallas students set up an encampment overnight to protest war in Gaza

Dallas developer, ‘Marrying Millions’ star pleads guilty to sex crime in California

Sherman superintendent is out after ‘Oklahoma!’ fallout

DFW Airport increasing parking rates beginning May 1

End of 97.1 The Freak signals struggles for radio as format grasps for future

Click here for information about the 2024 Preservation Achievement Awards!

preservation Dallas

Dedicated to historic places -->, protecting the history and culture of dallas.

Founded in 1972, we are a nonprofit dedicated to the preservation and revitalization of our city’s historic buildings, neighborhoods and places. We do so by championing initiatives that value the history and culture of places throughout the community, enhancing the quality of life and economic development of our great city.

Check out the 2020 Trustee’s Award for Organizational Excellence given to Preservation Dallas by the National Trust for Historic Preservation

Upcoming events.

Latest News

Preservation Dallas

Your membership helps us further our mission of preserving Dallas' historic architecture.

Join our Young Professionals next Thursday evening for a behind-the-scenes tram tour led by Norman Alston, FAIA! Norm has played an instrumental role in preserving Fair Park, as a founding board member of Fair Park First and currently in the restoration of the Cotton Bowl. We hope to see you Thursday! Tickets are free with an optional donation to Preservation Dallas. ... See More See Less

This content isn't available right now

• Comments: 0

Comment on Facebook

Come see a PAA winner before the awards ceremony in May! This Tuesday, April 16 from 6-8 pm, Steven Bourn, AIA Emeritus will be at 4311 Skillman to give tours and tell us about his family home. The Bourn House was built in 1951 by architect Joe Bourn. Bourn was pioneering in his use of reclaimed materials and midcentury architecture, and his son Steven Bourn will be receiving a 2024 PAA award for sustainability and interiors. The Bourn House was also recently featured in Candy’s Dirt, article linked in comments. This home is currently available for lease, represented by Michelle Walker, DFW Historic Homes with RJ Williams & Co Real Estate. Register for this event: www.eventbrite.com/e/open-house-for-paa-award-winning-mcm-bourn-house-tickets-881000565407?aff=od... Tickets to the PAA awards ceremony: www.eventbrite.com/e/25th-annual-preservation-achievement-awards-tickets-871808351247?aff=oddtdtc... ... See More See Less

• Comments: 3

SAVE THE KALITA HUMPHRIES. QUIT GOOFING AROUND!!!!

Candy’s Dirt article: candysdirt.com/2024/03/28/the-bourn-familys-midcentury-ranch-has-won-a-preservation-dallas-achiev...

Sad to see this on Wednesday morning:-(

This event has sold out, but we have added more tickets to meet demand! We are looking forward to a fantastic evening tonight. ... See More See Less

An Evening of Art and Architecture, celebrating the work of Frank Welch

www.eventbrite.com

• Comments: 33

💗💗 Due to family function that was shifted we would not be able to make it there. So we are releasing our tickets, If interested please message me. And like my comment

I’ve got 3x tickets for sale?

Is there anyone still looking to get tickets? We have our tickets up for sale, I'd really appreciate a direct message if anyone is interested, don't want them to be wasted! Ty ♥️

I've got 4 tickets for sale!!! Happy to negotiate price, don't want them to go to waste!!

I'm looking to sell off my extra tickets if anyone wants one let me know

Hello !!! Due to recent changes to my schedule, I will no longer be able to attend this event. Like my post and inbox me if you're interested. Thank you 🙏🙏

Is anybody is yet to buy a tickets? I'm trying to get rid of mine I got 4 tickets with please if interested dm thanks.

Ended up with 4 extra tickets and now the people I got them for look like they'll be dropping out. Have 3(possibly 4)tickets for sale if anyone's keen?

Please disregard all comments trying to sell tickets. These are bots

Desperately looking to sell off four tickets. Let me know if you are interested. I’m willing to reduce the price to get them sold 🙂

I've got tickets for sale

Hello i have got 3 tickets available for this event,if anybody is in hunt for the tickets to message or like my comment.

I have four ticket for sale

As much as I hate to admit, we won't be able to attend this anymore, it sucks,😔 happy to sell our tickets to another true fans at the same price. Like my post and pm me if interested

So sad my friends backed out😞.. Anyone still looking forward to grab tickets I've gotten tickets available for sale, like my post and PM me Thanks 🕊🤍

Who can put me through Refund process? Or Has anybody yet to buy their tickets?I got few I'm trying to get rid of for due to a change of plan. Like and pm

Selling my spare tickets if anyone is interested

Hi! I'm happy to transfer my 4 tickets to anyone who's interested.... I can also sell them separately if need 1,2 or 3! for lesser then what I paid for them. Don't want them wasted 🥳🙏

Hi! My Soulmate' surprised me with tickets to the show and I had bought them also ha! Now I have 4x extra pairs selling cheaper rather face value anyone interested?🤲❤️

View more comments

Today we are featuring our second Product Sponsor for our Art & Architecture event, @thehudsoncompany! The beautiful Hudson Company floors are featured throughout the Frank Welch home we will visit this evening. The Hudson Company is a vertically integrated mill specializing in wood flooring, paneling, and beams. Along with a wide range of responsibly-crafted architectural products, The Hudson Company provides a comprehensive range of hands-on professional services for every size design and building project. Their team of Hudson Valley based craftsmen and women includes carpenters, installers, finishers, millworkers, and tooling specialists. ... See More See Less

Today we are highlighting one of our Product Sponsors for our Art & Architecture event - Farrow & Ball! @farrowandball Farrow & Ball has been based in Dorset, England, since 1946. To this day, the brand remains dedicated to handcrafting richly pigmented paints and unique wallpapers using only the finest ingredients. The result is a directional palette of paint colours with an extraordinary response to light and artisanal wallpapers with a tactile finish, achieved by printing paint on paper. From ultra-matte, durable Dead Flat to mold-protected Modern Emulsion ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, and even choices for exteriors or historic properties, each high-performance finish is crafted with a precise balance of pigments and a low-VOC water base. Every roll of Farrow & Ball wallpaper is handcrafted with care in Dorset using real paint, bespoke equipment and traditional techniques including flatbed, roller and open-trough printing. Printing paint on paper creates a beautifully tactile finish and means each roll is utterly unique. Using Farrow & Ball paint ensures every design has the signature richness and depth of colour. Farrow & Ball has a Dallas location in the Design District at 1301 Oak Lawn Ave, Suite 150. ... See More See Less

• Comments: 1

Tickets still available! www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-of-art-and-architecture-celebrating-the-work-of-frank-welch-ticke...

The 2020 Preservation Achievement Awards

Real estate.

Own a historic property?

Our partners.

Subscribe to our Newsletter!

• Email Address *

Nominate Information

• Place to be Nominated* *
• *A formal nomination form will be sent as a followup to this form.

Historic Aldredge  House

Aldredge house museum.

Explore Your Unique Texas Origins

Join us for an entertaining, enlightening and educational exploration of your colorful Texas roots. Become an inaugural member of the Aldredge House Museum's HERITAGE BOOK CLUB. Over the course of the coming year, we'll be reading, reviewing and discussing thought-provoking selections of award-winning works of both fiction and non-fiction that focus on our shared history. 

Connect With Old Friends Cultivate New Ones

Immerse yourself in the colorful characters and cultural richness that make Texas, Texas. Grab your friends and come meet news ones during these fun-filled gatherings hosted in the magnificent surroundings of one of our state's most significant historic homes.

Members will meet at the Aldredge House four times during the year to participate in a lively discussion of the current literary selection led by a professional guest moderator. Featured books will be chosen based on their relevance to Dallas or Texas history as well as for their entertainment, educational and cultural value.

HERITAGE BOOK CLUB

At the historic, join the club, become a book club member.

Annual membership is just $75 and includes all four meetings

Members are required to obtain their own books

MEMBERSHIP IS LIMITED TO THE FIRST 40 REGISTRANTS

SO SIGN UP TODAY!

Remit at the link above using PayPal or a credit card 

Make check payable to: Friends of Aldredge House

and mail to: PO Box 140035, Dallas, TX 75214

Please Include An Email Address With Your Check

2024 Heritage Book Club Selections

First selection  club meeting: thursday march 31st at 6:30pm.

"The Big Rich" by Bryan Burrough

A spellbinding chronicle of Texas Oil. Weaving together the multi-generational saga of the industry's four wealthiest families, Burroughs brings to life the men known in their day as The Big Four: Roy Cullen, H.L. Hunt, Clint Murchison, and Sid Richardson.

Second Selection  Club Meeting: Thursday April 18th  at 6:30PM

"News of the World" by Paulette Jiles

It's 1870s Texas with breathtaking adventures of heroes and scoundrels, youth and wisdom, heartbreak and triumph. Nominated for the National Book Award, this gem is exquisitely written with captivating characters and vivid images of wild Texas.

Third Selection  Club Meeting: Thurs day September 19th  at 6:30PM

"Empire of the Summer Moon" by S.C. Gwynne

Brutal and beautiful, a gripping story of the Comanche, their fierce and brilliant chief, Quannah Parker, and the inevitable downfall of the tribe as their warrior culture faced a changing world.

Fourth Selection  Club Meeting: Thurs day October 17 th  at 6:30PM

"Minding The Store" by Stanley Marcus

A warm self portrait of a man and an exuberant celebration of the store that has become the best know landmark in Texas since the Alamo. As the epitome of quality, he played a key role in making Dallas itself a success.

Revisit Our City's Early Origins

Join us on the second saturday of each month for aldredge house living history tours.

Step back into the earliest year's of young Dallas during the Aldredge House Living History Tours, presented on the Second Saturday of every month, except during July and August. Actors portraying the first residents of the house, along with members their staff and community, dressed in period costumes, provide an entertaining and insightful  look at our past.

During the performance, guests will be guided throughout the house, both upstairs and down, and along the way, will will learn about life in Dallas during the city's formative years.  Seating for each month's performance  is limited so be sure to book your seats as early as possible.

The Aldredge House Preservation Fund provides support for the preservation and restoration of Historic Aldredge House and its surrounding structures and grounds  

Upcoming events.

All tours and events are by appointment only. For further information, contact us at [email protected]  

For information about our Living History Tour on the second Saturday of each month, please visit FriendsOfAldredgeHouse.org

Saturday, May 11th • 10AM-6PM   Sunday, May 12th • Noon-6PM

Tickets also available at: talulah & hess texas goods company roam fine goods, join us for the 49th annual  swiss avenue historic district mother's day home tour, attractions & events during the tour.

I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

Some of the city's most popular Food Trucks will be on hand all weekend, including Cousin's Maine Lobster, Ruthie's Rolling Cafe, Hamburger Man, and Emporium Pies. Ala carte food and beverages will be available on Saturday from 11AM to 6PM; and on Sunday from 11AM to 6PM.

Food Trucks

Live music & entertainment.

Throughout the weekend, we will feature a variety of musical en- tertainment on the main stage in Savage Park. We invite you to take a break anytime during the tour to relax with a cold drink and a snack under the Live Oak trees while you enjoy the sched- uled performances.

Children's Activity Area

Enjoy a cool beverage under the sprawling Live Oak trees in Savage Park while you kick back, relax and keep an eye on your little ones  in our adjacently located Children's Play Area.  

It will be brimming with kid friendly activities, including games, crafts, face painting, sidewalk chalk & inflatable basketball tosses

Artisan Market

Find that special gift for Mom, for yourself, or for anyone else! Take a break from touring the homes to browse our arts & crafts fair on the median across from Savage Park. Discover  a variety of unique crafts, jewelry, art, books and other assorted delights and delectables.

Mother's Day Brunch At Society Bakery

Sunday, may 12th only three seatings: 10am, 12pm & 2pm.

All Mother's Day Brunch Tickets include a Home Tour Ticket. The Home Tour Tickets are good both Saturday and Sunday during regular tour hours. Brunch Tickets are good for the specified seating time (10AM, 12PM, or 2PM) on Mother's Day Sunday, May 12th.

Support Historic Preservation In Dallas During This Time-Honored Annual Event 

The Swiss Avenue Historic District Mother's Day Home Tour, this year celebrating its 51st year and it's 49th tour, is an eagerly awaited annual event designed to build community; welcoming all to  

experience the architecture, history and interior design of its historically significant homes.

The Tour will occur over Mother’s Day Weekend, May 11th - May 12th, and will welcome an average attendance of 5,000 guests. The Tour features up to six homes that reflect the neighborhood’s diverse architectural influences.

A portion of the tour proceeds will benefit the local community. Past recipients include Lipscomb Elementary, J.L. Long Middle School, and Woodrow Wilson High School. The SAHDA Outreach Committee will nominate our 2024 recipients. Additionally, tour proceeds support revitalization efforts such as restoring Savage Park in the Swiss Avenue Historic District, maintaining District green spaces, and funding crime prevention initiatives.

Presented By

Our 2024 sponsors, media sponsor.

Outreach Sponsor

Savage Park Sponsor

Mother's Day Brunch Sponsor

Transportation Sponsors

Floral Sponsor

Children's area sponsor.

Pet Area Sponsor

House Sponsors

SAHD MAY BOARD MEETING

Tuesday, May 21st

6:30 PM – Social

7:00 PM – Meeting

Please join us for our May Neighborhood Board Meeting. Committee Chairs will be updating residents on issues of interest to the neighborhood at large, including reports on Home Tour results, Alliance Against Crime activities,  Outreach initiatives, Planning & Zoning concerns, and  Beautification progress.

All District Residents and Propery Owners are encouraged to attend. 

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING EVERYONE AT THE MEETING

In Person at Lakewood Towers

6301 Gaston Avenue, 1st-Floor Conference Room

For The Agenda, Please Refer To The Email Sent From The Association Secretary Just Prior To The Meeting.

THE MARK OF A LEADER 

Swiss avenue receives an updated historic marker recognizing nationally renowned preservationist, virginia savage mcalester.

On Saturday afternoon, November 11th, an updated  State of Texas historic marker was unveiled in front of the Harris-Savage-McAlester House at 5703 Swiss Avenue. The existing marker was augmented to include  recognition of one our district's most ardent supporters, nationally  recognized Historic Preservationist, Author, and Architectural  Historian, Virginia Savage McAlester, who was instrumental in the early formation of our city's first historic districts as well as a co-founder of Preservation Dallas and Friends of Fair Park.

The plaque was unveiled by Ms. McAlester's granddaughters, Virginia and Clementine Talkington. Dedication remarks were shared by  Executive Director of the Texas Historical Foundation, David Presiosi; former Texas State Representative, The Honorable Dr. Harryette Ehrhardt; and Ms. McAlester's daughter, Amy Talkington. A reception f ollowing the unveiling was  hosted by Ms. Talkington and Elizabeth Mast on the front terrace of Ms. Mast's Swiss Avenue home.

In addition to Dr. Ehrhardt, Mr. Presiosi, and Ms. Talkington, other dignitaries attending the event included Dallas Landmark Commissioners Jim Anderson, Larry Offutt, and Commission Chair, Dr. Evelyn Montgomery; Chair of the Dallas County Historical Commission, Elizabeth Gunby; Preservation Dallas Board Member, Nancy Shelton; Ms. McAlester's son, Carty Talkington; her stepson, Kevin McAlester; and her longtime partner, collaborator,  and book photographer, Steve Clicque .

November 2023

Another clean sweep, our 2023 alley clean up once again demonstrates swiss precision at its finest .

By Lauren  Nadig

The Swiss Avenue Historic District’s annual alley cleanup and beautification effort took place on Saturday, November 11, this year. Neighborhood volunteers came together along with the City of Dallas’ Code Compliance team and others to clear debris in and around the neighborhood so that residents, guests and visitors are able to enjoy their time in the District. 

While many of our wonderful neighbors often take time out of their schedules to spot and pick up trash and other items left behind throughout the year, this annual event allows us to cover more ground and to ready the neighborhood for what will no doubt be a busy holiday season of walkers, bikers, runners, those braving scooters and drivers taking in the beautiful homes and holiday décor. 

The SAHD sends its gratitude to the organizers and those who spent hours to ensure the neighborhood is safe and looking its best. 

Tune In To 

See the 2023 home tour featured on the bloomberg channel show "the american dream" .

Click on the image above to access the video.

Skip ahead to 10:27 for the segment about the Home Tour

Tour de Force

A  true  .

A sincere and well-deserved "Thanks!" on behalf of our entire District to this year's Swiss Avenue Historic District Home Tour co-chairs, the Dynamic Duo of Charlotte Kerr and Zach Swanson. Their leadership, dedication, patience, and good-natured willingness to weather any challenge they encountered (and we DO mean weather), resulted in our most successful home tour ever. 

The 2023 Home Tour

One for the record books.

Due in large measure to Charlotte and Zach's expert stewardship of this year's Home Tour Committee, and despite a drizzly Sunday, this year's home tour was a record-breaking success. Thanks to all who were involoved and we hope to see everyone again next year!

How It All Began

A look back at the origins of our very first swiss avenue home tour in 1973.

This year marked the 50th Anniversary of what has grown to become one of our city's most popular annual events. From it's humble beginnings in 1973 as a catalyst for promoting and preserving the homes in one of Dallas's only existing original residential neighborhoods, The Swiss Avenue Historic District Mother's Day Home Tour now attracts thousands of visitors every May to honor and celebrate our shared history.

A recent article in the Lakewood Advocate tells more of the story.

You can read it at the link below.

Firefighters Host Swiss Avenue Historic District Residents During An Open House At Station 17

Dallas Firefighters from Lakewood's own Station #17 recently hosted an Open House for residents of our District. Station Captain, David Diggs, and City Councilman, Paul Ridley, shared with the gathering information about the firehouse, its operations, and its importance to the community. Youngsters were given balloons and invited to meet and pose for photos with Sparky the Fire Dog; and all guests received a tour of the facility. 

A recent article in the Lakewood Advocate describes the event in more detail.

You can read the full article at the link below.

Neighbors Gather For Good Conversation And  Great  Barbecue In A Grand Setting

On March 19th, members of The Dallas County Medical Society Alliance Foundation and Friends of Aldredge House hosted a neighborhood meet-and-greet at Aldredge House. An estimated 150 neighbors and friends gathered at the house for delicious barbecue, ice-cold refreshments, and a lavish spread of side dishes and desserts. 

It was a welcome and long-overdue opportunity for old neighbors to reconnect post- Covid, and for everyone to meet and get to know the newer residents in the District. Attendance was far greater than expected; every table inside was filled and the overflow spilled out into the rear garden where there were activities set up for the younger kids. The response was so  positive, in fact, that the Foundation has offered to make these neighborhood meet-and-greets an annual Springtime event. 

The Miracle On 36th Street

In 1982,  longtime Swiss Avenue Historic District homeowners, Bob Hopkins and Bob Whisnant, were living in Kansas City's Hyde Park Historic District. On a freezing January day, near the corner of 36th and Cherry Street, while helping a neighbor plow their sidewalks after a  blizzard, they made a miraculous discovery: a newborn, wrapped in a blanket inside a cardboard box, that had been set on their neighbor's back doorstep. After rescuing the infant, they spent the next 41 years searching for information on her whereabouts and her welfare. And they finally found her. 

Click on the links below to watch the news story from Kansas City's KCTV5, and to read the full article published in the  Kansas  City Star:

Candy's Dirt Visits The Second Saturdays Living  History  Tour At Aldredge House

In the Aldredge House Dining Room, Martha Heimberg (center left) and Rikki Sushaun ( center  right) portray staff members of the house's original owners, Willie & Will Lewis.

Candy Evans, founder  of  Candy's Dirt , the award-winning  news site popular among real-estate lovers, along with her granddaughter, Hattie, and features writer, Karen Eubank, all attended the January performance of the Second Saturdays Living History Tour at Aldredge House. To read the article describing their experience, click on the photo link above.

Meet Our New NEIGHBORS

Lauren & drew nadig, 4938 swiss avenue.

Lauren and Drew Nadig and their two daughters, Maggie (6) and Ella (3), are the newest owners of 4938 Swiss. Lauren and Drew are transplants from Illinois and New York, respectively. Drew was in Killeen, Texas, stationed at Fort Hood from November 2006 to March, 2012. His stay there was broken up by a deployment to Iraq just outside of Baghdad from the summer of 2008 to summer of 2009, and northern Afghanistan from the summer of 2010 to summer of 2011 where he flew Blackhawk helicopters in the United States Army.

Drew and Maggie (6) Nadig

Ella (3) and Lauren Nadig

I n the early years of their relationship, an opportunity arose for Lauren to help open her firm’s Dallas office and, having lived her New York dream for some time – and having zero savings to show for it – decided to make the leap, vowing to only stay for a while. Drew was in violent agreement that Texas was a temporary spot. Fast forward 12 years and two kids later, and they can’t imagine living anywhere else.

They started in East Dallas in the Casa Linda Forest neighborhood. With limited room to grow and a creek that had seen a one-hundred-year flood two years in a row, they started looking for a home in Dallas where they could settle in for a longer haul. They had long admired Swiss Avenue and would often pop the kids into the stroller and enjoy a walk up and down the block, but never imagined living there. 

After looking around in East Dallas and resigning to likely having to build something, they visited a house on Gaston one morning. Drew has a penchant for building and fixing and the idea of an older home appealed to him, but the layout of the Gaston house was going to be too challenging. They jokingly told their realtor “Find us something on Swiss, and we’ll talk.” That afternoon she shared that the people who originally put in an offer on 4938 Swiss had changed their minds; the house was back on the market and they should check it out. From the moment they walked onto the porch, they fell in love with the house. It was well maintained and clearly loved and they didn’t even know the incredible history as much as they do now. 

Ella & Maggie in front of their home at 4938 Swiss

Before moving in, they gutted the back third of the house down to studs and floor joists (and sometimes beyond that to repair nearly 100-year fire damage) including the removal of an interior wall to open up the kitchen and dining area. They renovated the kitchen, mudroom and downstairs powder room, added a “cloffice” (closet office under the stairs), renovated the primary bathroom and closet and put in an exposed laundry room along with two windows upstairs. The result is a home that is historic with contemporary nods.

Next up is an extension on the back of the house to provide a bit more room to entertain their wonderful neighbors and friends along with a back yard makeover to include a pool. They hope to have that work done by the fall of this year. 

They  value the surrounding neighborhoods, the warmth of everyone who lives here, the generosity and the proximity to downtown. They recently had lunch with previous owners of the house, Myra and Darwin Smith,  who put it best: "A city’s success depends on the strength of its center. If you let the center go to waste, you ruin the city."  Swiss Avenue plays a vital role in preserving the past and future of Dallas and the Nadig  feel  it is a privilege to be a part of that.

On the weekends, they love to visit Leila’s, which is owned by a dear friend, and there is not a week that goes by that they don’t swing by Taco Joint on Peak! Lauren  always finds something wonderful at Tallulah & HESS and she and Drew like to try whatever is new at the Craft Beer Cellar, as well. 

When you see them along the Avenue, be sure to say, "Hello!"

Become One Of Our District's Newest VIPs!

The Dallas Police Department periodically puts on Volunteers in Patrol (VIP) certification classes for qualified Dallas residents. VIPs are trained on police department operations, procedures, and analysis of crime statistics. After certification, VIPs organize according to neighborhood (i.e., SAHD) and perform two-person patrols designed to prevent and report on potential crimes. The training stresses and focuses on how VIPs should merely observe and report on suspicious or ongoing criminal activity. VIPs are never supposed to confront suspects or interfere with an ongoing crime.  

On Saturday February 19, 2022, neighbors from the Swiss Avenue Historic District participated in the VIP training. Jean and David Dean, Jan Mohammed, Ken Kuesel, Zach Eccleston, Jeff Woodson, Paul Lockman, and Christine and Peter Loh all attended. Peter and Christine’s son, Petey, also attended but is ineligible for certification because he is a minor. Representatives from other neighborhood groups throughout Dallas were also in attendance. The session lasted about 4 hours and was very informative. 

The Alliance Against Crime has plans to meet and discuss the training and eventually begin to organize patrols. If you would like further information about the VIP program and how to become a VIP, please contact AAC Chairperson David Dean at  [email protected] .

Second Saturdays

  aldredge house, step back to a simpler time, join us on the second saturday of each month for living history tours at aldredge house.

The Aldredge House invites you to travel back with us to a simpler place and time; to a Gilded Age steeped in gentility, refinement, and the finer things in life. Join us on t he Second Saturday of each month for Living History Tours that will transport you to back to the early days of Swiss Avenue when, in 1917, West Texas Rancher, Will Lewis, commissioned renowned architect Hal Thomson to design and build this magnificent French Eclectic Mansion as a wedding gift for his Debutante Bride, Willie Newberry.

Actors outfitted in period costumes portray individuals who played significant roles in the Aldredge House's illustrious history,  including  its earliest owners, their maids, their chauffeurs, and even their family physician. 

DOORS OPEN AT 10 AM FOR HOUSE TOURS. LIVING HISTORY TOURS BEGIN AT 11 AM

PROUDLY PRESENTED BY: FRIENDS OF ALDREDGE HOUSE

To rsvp for the tour, or for more information, Email us at:

[email protected]

A BIT About Our District

The Swiss Avenue Historic District, in Old East Dallas, is a diverse neighborhood containing the finest collection of Early 20th Century residential architecture in the entire Southwest . Established in 1905 by real-estate developer, Robert Munger, it was designated in 1973 as the first historic district in the City of Dallas. It is an official Dallas Landmark District and, in  1974, the entire District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The boundaries of The Swiss Avenue Historic District include portions of some of the city's earliest streets:

Beacon Street • Bryan Parkway • Bryan Street 

La Vista Drive • Live Oak Street • Swiss Avenue

[LEARN MORE]

Beacon Street

Bryan Parkway

Bryan Street

La Vista Drive

Live Oak Street

Swiss  Avenue

With profound gratitude.

Historic preservation throughout the City of Dallas exists largely due to the exemplary efforts of our neighbor, our friend, and our District's most ardently devoted advocate,

Virginia Savage McAlester

Virginia dedicated her life's work to preserving, protecting and promoting the historic dignity of her native hometown. She was the nation's foremost authority on historic architecture; she was instrumental in the founding of our District, which became this City's first Historic District; and she spearheaded efforts throughout our community that have impacted and improved the quality of life for us all.

Her contributions will reverberate for generations to come. For that, and for so much more, we are profoundly grateful. 

May 13, 1943 – April 9, 2020

THE BRILLIANCE OF VIRGINIA SAVAGE McALESTER

In tribute to our dear friend and neighbor, Virginia Savage McAlester, we invite you to view the video below, featuring a lecture on the History of Munger Place  presented  by Virginia at the Hall of State in Fair Park on May 18, 2017

As you walk our scenic neighborhood, you may have noticed bronze plaques installed near the sidewalks in front of some of the homes. Our neighbor, Virginia Dupuy, worked with City Hall to obtain approval for SAHD residents to install these plaques on their properties.

The purpose of the plaques is to identify the year of a home's construction, its architectural style, the architect/builder (if known), and the original owner. If there's room remaining on the plaques, a fact or two about the history of the home or its original owners can be added. Although there are only a handful of these plaques in place today, visitors walking our District frequently stop to read them. 

If you are interested in obtaining one of these plaques for your property, the process is relatively simple. A Certificate of Appropriateness is required. City Staff can approve the wording without going before the full Landmark Commission but you will be asked to provide the source of the facts you will be displaying.

Two good, reliable sources of information are the fileson our Historic District located at Preservation Dallas, and a Masters Thesis available at the Dallas Public Library downtown. The 3-volume thesis, titled, "History and Guide to the Swiss Avenue Historic District", was written in the 1970s by three architecture students at UT Arlington: Robert L. Canavan, Patricia T. Canavan, and Judy S. Dooley.

Erie Landmark Company is the manufacturer of the plaques (637 Hempfield Hill Road, Columbia, PA 17512, Telephone: 800-874-7848). The cost of one plaque is approximately $250. Under the agreement with the City, the plaques are to be installed on a flat concrete pad that can be easily fabricated by your handyman.

neighborhood events

Annual home tour

district founders

Selma-Dallas County Historic Preservation Society

preserve. protect. restore.

• Board & Staff
• Kenan’s Mill
• Heritage Village
• YMCA Building
• Historic Property Signs & Plaques
• Tour of Homes
• Holiday House

Tour of homes

March 8 & 9, 2024.

Hosted annually by the SDCHPS, the Tour of Homes began in 1976 as a way to share the city’s variety of architectural styles and rich history.

Selma’s four designated historic districts comprise the largest contiguous historic district in the state of Alabama. Together, the historic districts feature more than 1200 historic homes, churches, and other unique structures.

Today, the Tour of Homes features historic buildings across Selma and Dallas County. The tour includes a Friday evening welcome reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages, followed by a special presentation on a topic of Selma-Dallas County history. The tour begins Saturday at 10 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m., and package tickets allow visitors entry into all houses, museums, churches, and other historic sites featured on the tour, as well as the Saturday evening Cemetery Tour in Old Live Oak Cemetery. 

Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite – see below for more details.

Join us for the  48th Annual Historic Selma Tour of Homes !

Tickets can be purchased online via Eventbrite (linked below) or in-person on Friday, March 8, from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Vaughan-Smitherman Museum , 109 Union Street, from 6-8 p.m., at Sturdivant Hall Museum , 713 Mabry Street, and on Saturday, March 9, between 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Vaughan-Smitherman Museum , 109 Union Street. For any questions or information requests, you may call 334-412-8550 or email [email protected].

package Ticket

A pass to all Friday & Saturday activities, including:

• Friday evening reception & special presentation
• Entrance to all homes, churches, and museums on the Saturday tour
• Saturday evening Live Oak Cemetery Ghost Tour

Purchase Tickets Online

ONLINE TICKET SALES CLOSE AT 11:30 P.M. ON THURSDAY, MARCH 8

Cemetery Tour Ticket

Various “ghosts” will visit historic Old Live Oak Cemetery at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 on Saturday. Tour tickets can be purchased for $10.00 each at the Vaughan-Smitherman Museum or at Old Live Oak Cemetery with cash during the tour. This is the only ticket that may be purchased separately.

(Note: the Cemetery Tour is included in the package ticket)