A historic Victorian home in Richardson, Texas, took a significant journey on Sunday, as it was carefully relocated to its final destination. Known as “Miss Belle’s House,” the structure, originally built between 1886 and 1889, is a Texas historic landmark and has witnessed much of the city’s history.
A Glimpse into Richardson’s Past
The home, which is considered one of the oldest in the community, has a special place in Richardson’s history. In the early 1900s, Virginia Bell Roberson operated a private school in the house, with kindergarten through third grade classes held on the first floor.
Roberson’s parents had bought her the house to run the school, and she lived on the second floor. This connection to local education history has made the home an iconic piece of Richardson’s past.
Relocation to Owens Farm in 1979
In 1979, the two-story home was moved to Owens Farm, where it continued to be an important historical site. Over the years, it became a window into Richardson’s early days, offering tours for local elementary school students to learn about the city’s origins.
Now, after decades at Owens Farm, Miss Belle’s House has made another journey — this time to Huffhines Park.
The Three-Mile Journey
The historic relocation began early Sunday morning, with construction crews working meticulously to transport the house on a three-mile journey down Plano Road. The process drew spectators, including Larry Abeln, a longtime Richardson resident, who watched in awe as the house moved down the road.
“It’s just fun. It’s a neat thing to see just watching it go down the road,” Abeln said, sharing his excitement as he witnessed the event. “Good heavens, there it is, moving now!”
A Community Celebration
The move attracted a crowd of history buffs and locals who had deep ties to the home and its legacy. Abeln, who has lived in Richardson for 43 years, recalled bringing his children to Owens Farm when the house was still located there.
The move to its final home at Huffhines Park became a community celebration filled with fans of local history.
“It’s such a production having all the police and the electrical people and everybody out here,” Abeln said, observing the efforts involved in the move.
Restoration Plans Underway
While Miss Belle’s House has reached its new location, it isn’t the end of its story. The city of Richardson has plans for the house’s restoration, with efforts to enhance its surrounding area, including adding park benches, historical markers, and landscaping.
The community is encouraged to contribute through donations to help restore the home to its former glory.
A Sentimental Connection to the Community
The move and restoration of the house hold deep sentimental value for the community. Greg Sowell, a Richardson spokesperson, expressed that the connection to Miss Belle’s House is felt deeply by many locals, as it represents a piece of their history and shared memories.
“There’s a sentimental value that I think you’re seeing and feeling as you run into the people out here,” Sowell said. “It comes down to the importance and the feeling of the community.”
Preserving History for Future Generations
As Miss Belle’s House takes its place in Huffhines Park, it will continue to serve as a symbol of Richardson’s rich history, preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn from. With the community’s efforts, the home will remain a reminder of the city’s past and its ongoing legacy.
“We think Richardson is a great place, and Miss Belle’s House is just part of it,” Abeln concluded, reflecting on the house’s lasting impact.
