Sears, Rev. Henry M. and Jennie, House
209 W. 39th St., Austin, TXNear the intersection of Avenue C and West 39th Street (historically designated Second Avenue), the house was built on lots purchased by Sears on June 18, 1897. The purchase price of $1750.00 and notation by City directories that Sears' residence was on the southwest corner of the intersection suggests that Sears occupied a 2-story residence upon moving to Austin to serve as presiding elder of the Austin district of the Methodist Episcopal Church. By 1903, however, his residence was listed at the southeast corner of the intersection, and so it is presumed that 209 West 39th was constructed between 1898 and 1903.
Sears continued to live in the house until 1915. During his residency in the house, he served as chaplain of 29th legislative session of the Texas Senate (1905-07) and the State Lunatic Asylum, and simultaneously for both institutions between 1912 and his death on March 13, 1915 (Austin City Directories, 1905-1914; Probate File No. 4191).
Upon his death, the property passed to his wife, Jennie, and subsequently to their daughter, Florence. By 1924, Florence Sears married Frank W. King, who dealt in cedar products, and they lived at 209 West 39th until his death in 1961 (Probate File No. 22,864). Florence King sold the property to Randolph G. Mueller on May 23, 1975 (DR 5173: 1544); recent owners have rehabilitated the dwelling.
Although established in the 1890s, Hyde Park retains relatively few dwellings that predate World War I. Built about 1903, this house is one of the neighborhood's finest examples of late-Victorian architecture. Although a vernacular dwelling in form and plan, the house's ornate detailing suggests the Queen Anne style. Similar house scattered throughout Hyde Park do not retain the historic integrity of 209 West 39th Street.
Apart from its architectural significance, the Sears House also represents development efforts in Hyde Park. Constructed when Hyde Park after initial marketing strategies changed to meet economic pressures, the dwelling typifies the affordable suburban house that early promoters heralded as an alternative to urban living arrangements.
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
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 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.