Carroll, J. J., House

The J. J. Carroll House, one of the first houses built along Courtlandt Place in the first two years of its development, is an excellent example of early 20th century Neo-Classical Revival architecture, Built in 1912 in one of Houston's earliest and most exclusive subdivisions, the Carroll House reflects the elegance and architectural quality common along that avenue. Two fireplace mantels by Peter Mansbendel, Texas' most famous 20th century carver, provide the outstanding interior feature, Historically, the house served as the home of J. J. Carroll and Lena Carter Carroll, prominent business and social leaders in Houston.

J. J. Carroll, a lumberman, designed his house in 1912 and in 1924 hired Birdsall Briscoe to remodel and make some additions. Briscoe, who designed many houses on Courtlandt Place, was one of Houston's most distinguished 20th century architects, practicing in that city from 1906-71.

Peter Mansbendel, who designed the living and dining room fireplaces for the Carrolls, also did extensive wood and limestone carving for both the exterior and interior of the T. J. Donoghue House at 17 Courtlandt Place. A Swiss-born wood carver who apprenticed and studied in Switzerland, London and Paris, Mansbendel emigrated to the U. S. in 1907. In 1911 he married an Austin, Texas, native and eventually settled in that city. In Texas Mansbendel became known as the leading artist in his profession and during the 1920's and '30s prominent architects would summon him to put finishing touches on their most important projects. His fireplace mantels were especially popular. In addition to architectural detail work, he also created an endless array of furniture and household decorative items, Peter Mansbendel died of cancer on July 20, 1940.

J. J. Carroll was in the lumber business as managing partner of the W. T. Carter and Bros. Lumber Co. (The Carter family built four houses on Courtl-ndt Place.) Mr. Carroll served on the Houston School Board for many years and participated in a number of social and intellectual activities. His wife, Lena Carroll was also active in local community and political activities. Through the Carroll's interest their house became a regional center for the Audubon Society. Mr. Carroll died of a stroke in the 1930's, but Mrs. Carroll continued to live in the house until her death in 1971. The present owners bought the house from the Carroll grandson in 1978.