It is nice to be able to visit one of the old ranches that has not suffered from "development". This pretty rock homestead has been lovingly maintained by several generations of each of the only two families that have owned it. This county was settled in 1846, 200 years later than many of the properties we study in the Northeast. So what is antique here is much younger.
The buildings and very extensive grounds are carefully groomed and managed. Interesting outbuildings have been preserved. Barns are farther back out of sight. There is a large tennis court for family use and a beautiful pool tucked behind the house away from casual view. Understated luxury would describe the lifestyle. The sweetness of the morning air and birdsong and golden slant of the sunlight tell a story of timeless simple pleasures. The front porch of the main house sports a Texas flag on one corner and a US flag on the other. The home began as a log structure, was rocked and added onto several times and the gingerbread porch came along in the 1880's. Interiors are very simply but comfortably furnished.
An old mesquite tree can be beautiful.
