Modern Texas Farmhouse
Our restored home is representative of a “Transformative Farm House,” exemplary of an ultimate “reuse.” Originally constructed as a small hardscrabble dog-trot in the mid 1800s when marauding Comanches still roamed occasionally in the Texas Hill Country. It sets along the Blanco River, a stones throw from the river crossing of cattle drives headed for the Chisholm Trail, and just blocks from the town square of the City of Blanco.
The farmhouse expanded periodically to match the growth requirements of successive owners, each adding distinctive features which we have endeavored to preserved in this the latest incantation.
A Transformative Farm House stands in direct contrast to the large ornate, historic edifices built from the incredible wealth generated by Texas agriculture and mineral development. It is exemplary of the resourcefulness and perseverance of early Texas Homesteaders.
Welcome to our Texas hill country farmhouse.
This traditional farmhouse design is mixed with modern concepts, open flow with all useable space, refurbished furnishings, and contemporary color schemes creating a unique home that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort. It’s charming and graceful without being fussy. Easy to care for and integrated with the outdoors so everyone enjoys a feeling of fun and relaxation.
Site History
Mid 1800’s – The Farmhouse came into existence in the form of a “dog trot” cabin, situated on a rise overlooking it’s large alluvial field suitable for cultivation along the Blanco river.
1908 – Jarvis Dale and his family moved by wagon to Blanco, Texas, and did extensive renovations to the farmhouse adding many rooms connected by a long hall.
Jarvis made his living hauling freight by wagon and later by truck, kept hogs, chickens, milk cows and horses on the acreage.
1931 – The Farmhouse was remodeled to accommodate the Dale family of 8, adding rooms and enlarging the porch.
1932 – A detached bungalow was added to rent in anticipation of the establishment in 1933 of Blanco State Park, just a few hundred yards south along the Blanco River. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) made initial improvements to the park from June 1933 to May 1934.
mid 1980s – The Farmhouse was extensively remodeled to accommodate a Head Start School under the 1965 program initiated by President Lyndon B. Johnson as part of his ‘War on Poverty.’ As a side note, LBJ’s mother (so instrumental in his development as a politician) grew-up in a home directly across the river.
1999 – We began the restoration to its current status as an exemplary Depression Era farm house, albeit with modern accoutrements.