National Register Listing

Lemmon, Mark and Maybelle, House

3211 Mockingbird Ln., Highland Park, TX
The Mark and Maybelle Lemmon house located at 3211 Mockingbird Lane, Highland Park, embodies Lemmon's architectural philosophy of historicist architecture executed for modern times. The house exemplifies Mark Lemmon's abilities as a historicist architect with it's restrained, graceful, and dignified interpretation of the Norman cottages he saw while in France during World War I. Lemmon was, as noted in a recent book on his career, "Dallas' preeminent historicist architect" (Crafting Traditions: The Architecture of Mark Lemmon, p.21). The house, sited on lots that were combined to measure 120' across Mockingbird and 150' deep, in Highland Park directly across from Southern Methodist University, was constructed in 1924 for his family. The house is eligible under Criterion C, significance at a local level in the area of architecture as an early example of Mark Lemmon's historicist style architecture in a residential form. It is an interesting example and interpretation of the Norman cottage style that was often used as a residential style in the northeast but rarely in Dallas. It is also eligible under Criterion B at the state level of significance for its association with Mark Lemmon, an important historicist architect in Dallas and Texas. Lemmon designed the house for his family and lived there until his death. His wife, Maybelle Lemmon, continued to live in the house until two years before her death. The house has had only minor alterations; most of these were done during the time Mark Lemmon and his family lived in the house and were to accommodate his growing family.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2006.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture houses residential buildings
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Dallas County, located in northern Texas, has a rich history that has contributed to its growth and significance. Here is a concise summary of its historical journey:

Established in 1846, Dallas County played a crucial role in the development of North Texas. The county's namesake, George Mifflin Dallas, was the Vice President of the United States at the time. The city of Dallas, the county seat, quickly emerged as a center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along major transportation routes.

During the late 19th century, Dallas County experienced rapid economic growth driven by industries such as cotton, railroads, and cattle. The city of Dallas became a major hub for cotton trading, attracting business and establishing itself as a prominent financial center in the Southwest.

In the 20th century, Dallas County continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in the early 1900s led to the development of the oil industry in the region, contributing to the county's prosperity. The county also played a significant role in the aerospace industry, hosting the headquarters of major aerospace companies and contributing to the growth of aviation technology.

Dallas County's cultural landscape reflects its vibrant and diverse population. The county is home to a wide range of cultural institutions, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Dallas County also played a notable role in the civil rights movement, with important milestones in the fight for equality and integration.

Today, Dallas County stands as a major economic and cultural center. It boasts a robust economy supported by various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and telecommunications. The county is known for its thriving arts scene, professional sports teams, and diverse culinary offerings.

With its rich history, economic vitality, and cultural significance, Dallas County continues to shape North Texas as a dynamic and influential region.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Dallas County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Caddo, Wichita, and Comanche.

  • 1839: Dallas County was officially established and named after George Mifflin Dallas, the Vice President of the United States under President James K. Polk.

  • Mid-19th Century: Dallas County experienced significant growth with the establishment of Dallas as a trading post and the arrival of settlers drawn by the opportunities in trade and agriculture.

  • Late 1800s: The county prospered with the expansion of railroads, particularly the Texas and Pacific Railway and the Houston and Texas Central Railroad, which solidified Dallas as a major transportation hub.

  • Early 20th Century: Dallas County saw a surge in economic development and urbanization. Industries such as oil, cotton, banking, and manufacturing fueled the city's growth.

  • 1960s: Dallas County gained national attention due to its role in the civil rights movement. The city of Dallas was the site of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963.

  • Late 20th Century: Dallas County continued to experience rapid growth and diversification, becoming a major center for business, finance, and telecommunications. The county is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, including the Dallas Arts District.

  • Today, Dallas County is the second-most populous county in Texas and home to the city of Dallas, a thriving metropolitan area.