Ledbetter, Charles P., House
3904 Ave. C, Austin, TXResting on a pier-and-beam foundation, the house features a rectangular plan capped by a hipped roof with composition shingles. The apex of the roof extends in a line perpendicular to Avenue C and reveals the dwelling's deceptively large amount of floor space. A one-bay porch dominates the primary (east) facade with tapered box columns supporting a gable roof. The gable end features a circular vent opening and broad eaves with stick brackets. A wooden rail balustrade encircles the porch and a stoop with a wooden balustrade marks the entry. A single doorway crowned by a transom serves as the main entrance to the dwelling. Windows are double-hung wood sash with 1/1 lights.
The Charles P. Ledbetter House is a noteworthy local example of the hipped roof bungalow form. Constructed about 1911-12 by builder Charles P. Ledbetter, a partner in the contracting firm of Ledbetter-Mundt prior to World War I, the dwelling is a well-preserved example of an early-20th century house type rarely found in Hyde Park. Ledbetter's modest bungalow retains its distinctive features this early type and is representative of the speculative nature of the development of Hyde Park. As such, it is being nominated for its local architectural significance under Criterion C.
The property at 3904 Avenue C remained unimproved for almost 15 years after its initial sale by the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Land and Town Company on October 1, 1896 (DR 135:233). Austin builders sometimes bought lots and constructed speculative housing for investment or promotional purposes. As Charles P. Ledbetter had an active practice as a general contractor and builder, it seems likely that he acguired lots 25 and 26 in Block 9 of Hyde Park Addition No. 2 for such purposes. In partnership with Albert A. Mundt, Ledbetter took an active role in Austin's building trades in the early 20th century, including a term as Secretary of the Austin Builders Exchange during 1912-1913 (Austin City Directories 1909-1913). He apparently never lived at 3904 Avenue C, which was occupied instead by CD. Traweek, a fellow carpenter responsible for the construction of 4105 Avenue D, 4103 Avenue G, and 4308 Avenue H.
Traweek purchased 3904 Avenue C from Ledbetter on April 1, 1912, for $2000. He owned the property until 1916 (DR 252:404; 285:246). Subseguent owners included Howard M. and Ruth T. Maud (1916-1920), Mrs. Mary Wukash (1920-1924), Burt Brydson (1924), Mrs M.A. Stell (1924-1929), and Caroline O. Stell (1929-1941), who taught at the Texas School for the Blind (Austin City Directories 1919-1941).
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
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.
Texas is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
European exploration of the region began in the 17th century when Spanish explorers ventured into what is now Travis County. However, it was not until the early 19th century that permanent settlements were established. In 1835, the area became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico, and the county was officially created in 1840.
Travis County was named after William Barret Travis, a Texas Revolution hero who commanded the Texan forces during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Throughout the 19th century, the county experienced significant growth and development, driven by factors such as the arrival of immigrants, the expansion of the railroad, and the establishment of institutions like the University of Texas at Austin in 1883.
During the 20th century, Travis County continued to evolve and modernize. Austin, the county seat and state capital, grew into a vibrant and culturally diverse city, known for its live music scene, technological innovations, and progressive policies. The county became a center for government, education, and business, attracting a wide range of industries and residents.
Today, Travis County is one of the most populous and economically vibrant counties in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and a wide range of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. The county's history, coupled with its present-day dynamism, contributes to its unique character and makes it a significant region in the Lone Star State.
Travis County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Travis County, Texas.
- Pre-19th Century: The area that would become Travis County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache.
1691: Spanish explorers, including Domingo Terán de los Ríos and Alonso de León, explored the region.
1835: Texas Revolution against Mexico begins, and the area becomes part of the Republic of Texas.
1839: Waterloo, a small village settled near the Colorado River, is selected as the site for the new capital of the Republic of Texas.
1840: Travis County is officially established and named after William Barret Travis, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
1842: The capital is officially named Austin after Stephen F. Austin, "The Father of Texas."
1871: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Austin, facilitating transportation and spurring growth.
1883: The University of Texas at Austin is founded.
1891: The Texas State Capitol building, an iconic landmark, is completed.
1930s-1940s: The construction of dams, including Mansfield Dam and Tom Miller Dam, on the Colorado River provides flood control and creates Lake Travis and Lake Austin, respectively.
1970s-1990s: Austin experiences significant growth and becomes known for its live music scene, technology industry, and progressive culture.
2000s-Present: Travis County continues to grow in population and economic significance, with Austin being recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.