The Preservation of Austin’s Historical Homes

The Old West Austin Historic District (OWAHD) was recently listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The communities which make up the Old West Austin Historic District know that a listing in the National Register denotes that the property is worthy of preservation. Communities in the National Register are communities with stabilized property values, communities with local heritage tourism programs, communities which help to develop local heritage education initiatives and communities which are afforded some protection against urban sprawl.

The Inception of the Old West Austin Historic District

Reducing urban sprawl and preserving the historic homes in Austin has been a grassroots effort since 2000, when OWAHD was formed. Now, OWAHD encompasses three suburbs – Enfield, Pemberton Heights and Bryker Woods – with more than 40 subdivisions.

The OWAHD, which is comprised of the northwest Austin neighborhoods from 13^th to 35^th Streets, between Shoal Creek and the MoBac Expressway, includes 106 blocks of residential and parks land across Austin’s central business district.

The OWAHD boasts a fine, well-preserved collection of early to mid-century residences. The architectural styles from the mid 19^th century through the mid 20^th century are reflective of the homes which are a part of the OWAHD.

The Purpose of the National Register

The National Register of Historic Places in the nation’s official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. This program was designed to coordinate and support both public and private efforts to identify, evaluate and protect historic and archeological resources.

The National Register has over 2,000 listings in Texas.

The goal of the OWAHD is to maintain a home’s architectural features and the height of the home when viewed from the street. However, homeowners are free to remodel the home’s interior as desired.

As part of the National Register, property values are maintained and the tax base for the city is supported.

Other communities which are listed on the National Register include Pease Park, Hyde Park, Camp Mabry, Sixth Street, Clarksville, Zilker Park and Moonlight Towers.

• Rate this Post!

  Select Your Rating:

  • 5 Stars (Excellent!)
  • 4 Stars
  • 3 Stars
  • 2 Stars
  • 1 Stars (Poor)

• Share this Post

  Share With A Friend:

  Your Name Your Email

  Friend's Name Friend's Email

  Optional Message

  Send

• Print
• Social Bookmarking

  Add to Bookmarks: