National Register Listing

Robbins, Alice H., House

4311 Ave. A, Austin, TX
Constructed in 1925, the Alice H. Robbins House features a synthesis of the vernacular shotgun form and Bungalow detailing unique in Hyde Park. Built during the heyday of residential construction in Hyde Park (1920-1935), the house is a modestly scaled dwelling constructed in the vernacular shotgun form. Despite its unpretentious size and simple plan, the house displays details typical of the Bungalow style, including treatment of eaves, porch, foundation, and fenestration. As the house retains most of these original features, it stands as a unique example of this synthesis in Hyde Park. An unusually high degree of architectural integrity and the unusual combination of form and detailing suggest its nomination under Criterion C for its local architectural significance.

On February 23, 1925, the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Land Company sold the lot at 4311 Avenue A for $50 to Alice H. Robbins, who had operated a sanatorium at 119 East 30th Street (DR 371:423; Austin City Directory 1916). One month later, Robbins contracted with R.W. (Wallace) Herndon, who agreed to furnish labor and materials worth $767.76 for the construction of a . . . weatherboard house 16 by 18 feet. . ." (DR 358:563).

Herndon was a life-long Austinite who worked for several local lumber companies and as an independent contractor. Shortly after he built this house, he became mill superintendent for the Reinhardt Lumber Company; he subsequently managed the Cash Lumber Company and the Theodore Low Lumber Company (Austin City Directories 1927-1937; Austin History Center. Biographical Files: Herndon, Eugene Wallace, 1836-1904).

Alice Robbins occupied 4311 Avenue A until her death in 1934 (Austin Statesman April 2, 1934:3). Her heirs held the property until 1950, when it was sold to Iva B. Marrs (DR 1042:489). Subseguent owners have included Joe R. Long (1968-1970), Dr Walter Myer (1970-1977), M.B. and S.L. Reinking (1977-1979), M.S. and J.L. Lackey, and Robert Abbassi and Morteza Hamidi (DR 1042:489; 3510:865; 3836:574; 5756:711; 6821:2147; 9314:109).
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

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.

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Texas random facts
Travis County, Texas, is located in the central part of the state and encompasses the capital city of Austin. The county has a rich history that spans centuries, beginning with the indigenous Native American tribes who inhabited the area long before European settlement.

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.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.