|
Page 1 of 4
The Queen Anne and Shingle style home located at 209 Grand Avenue in Waxahachie has silently presided over the town since it was first built in 1896. Enormous proportions, including a large expanse of porches, ornamentation and even an octagonal tower create a sense of wonder and mystery. Who built this home and what stories does it have to tell? H. W. Trippet was a banker and civic leader in Waxahachie in the late 1890’s. The home he built at 209 Grand Avenue reflected Mr. Trippet’s esteemed position in the community. Unique architectural details are lavishly displayed – cedar fish-scale shingles, two wrap-around porches, and a porte-cochere for the carriage to drop off the family or guests without having to brave the elements. A large stone used as a carriage stop still remains to this day.
 The property was later sold to Walter E. Shive, a successful seed, grain and coal store owner. The Shive family owned the home until it was sold to Robert and Wanda Bell sometime in the 1950’s. The story of how the home changed hands has become legendary in Waxahachie.
|
