Austin is advancing plans to nearly double the Convention Center, prompting efforts to preserve two historic structures known as the Castleman-Bull Houses. These homes, dating back 175 and 152 years, are being relocated again to accommodate a new chilling plant for the $1.6 billion project. There are plans for their temporary relocation and eventual reintegration into the project's landscape. The project aims to include interpretive signage to convey the historical significance of the homes once they are moved.
"There have been a lot of ups and downs and twists and turns in trying to figure out how to keep these buildings intact," said Historic Preservation Division Manager Kim McKnight. "We do have very clear direction from Council to do whatever is necessary to get this dealt with in terms of removing historic designation as an obstacle."
Originally, the best-case scenario involved relocation to Pioneer Farms, an educational facility where the homes would serve as artifacts of 19th century life in Downtown Austin.
If all goes as planned, the new vision would see the Castleman-Bull House return to its present spot along Waller Creek, reoriented slightly to face the Waterloo Greenway Trailhead.
Once relocated, the team hopes to install interpretive signage to illustrate the landmarks' historic context so that the story of these two homes can be told effectively.
#austin-convention-center #historic-preservation #castleman-bull-houses #urban-redevelopment #cultural-heritage
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