News Summary
The iconic Stagecoach Inn in Round Rock has been successfully relocated and renovated, ensuring that its rich history continues for future generations. Originally built between 1848 and 1853, this beloved landmark has moved from 901 Round Rock Avenue to 750 Chisholm Trail Road. With a dedicated preservation effort and a grand reopening set for October 2024, the Inn will remain a cultural and historical treasure within the community, closely tied to the Heritage West Trail project.
Historic Round Rock Stagecoach Inn Successfully Relocated and Renovated for Future Generations
In the heart of Round Rock, something remarkable has just happened! The beloved Stagecoach Inn, a cornerstone of the city’s history, has been skillfully relocated to ensure it continues standing tall for generations to come. Originally situated at 901 Round Rock Avenue, the charming structure has now found a new home at 750 Chisholm Trail Road. This significant move took place between April 27-29, 2018, and the building, weighing in at an impressive 100 tons, was no small task to shift!
Thanks to the dedicated team at H. D. Snow & Sons, Movers and years of determination from local advocates at Round Rock Preservation, the Inn was saved from an untimely demolition. As the moving day approached, crowds flocked to witness this historic event, causing the closure of Round Rock Avenue as onlookers eagerly anticipated the monumental achievement.
A Glimpse into History
The Stagecoach Inn has a rich history, originally built by J.J. Harris between 1848 and 1853. This makes it the oldest limestone structure in Round Rock! It gained recognition as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1963, although it lost that designation in 1995 due to alterations by later owners. Round Rock Preservation worked hard with city leaders to ensure the Inn wasn’t lost forever, especially after it became endangered due to the proposed RM620 Road Safety Project, beginning a new chapter in its story back in 2012.
The Move: A Transformation in Action
Before the relocation, a comprehensive feasibility study was conducted to determine if moving the Inn was economically feasible. Once green-lighted, preparations started in earnest. The Inn underwent various stabilization efforts and structural reinforcements, a meticulous process that even included relocating rocks from its original 1940s dry-stack wall. When the big moving day arrived, the community held its breath as history was quite literally moved from one place to another.
However, the journey didn’t stop there! Though the renovations for the Inn were initially slated for completion in 2020, challenges from the pandemic and rising construction costs delayed the project until 2023. Fortunately, a new contractor was selected, and the dream began to take shape. With each passing day, the magic of restoration was carefully unveiled, including the addition of beautiful new wood flooring, ceilings, and a stunning cedar roof—all while preserving the treasured original limestone walls.
A Bright Future Ahead
On January 25, 2024, the City Historic Preservation Office installed a Historic Marker at the Inn’s original location, ensuring that its legacy is never forgotten. Fast forward to October 19, 2024, and the newly revitalized Inn was welcomed back with open arms during a grand reopening that featured an open house tour, inviting all to step inside this enchanting piece of history.
Today, the Stagecoach Inn is not just a structure; it is a part of the larger Heritage West Trail project, with exciting plans for a lovely park surrounding the building. This storied Inn served as a rest stop for stagecoach travelers and a vibrant social hub for the community. Over the years, it has worn many hats, from tavern to private residence, and eventually a dining establishment.
Community advocate Judy Anderson, whose grandparents owned the Inn from 1941 to 1957, carries a personal connection to this piece of Round Rock’s legacy. The preservation of the Inn is a tribute to the memories of those who built, cherished, and cared for it throughout its colorful history. What an exciting time in Round Rock as it embraces its past while looking forward to the future!
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Additional Resources
- KXAN News
- Wikipedia: Stagecoach Inn
- Community Impact
- Google Search: Round Rock Stagecoach Inn
- Hoodline
- Google Scholar: Stagecoach Inn Round Rock
- CBS Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Stagecoach Inn Round Rock
- KVUE News
- Google News: Stagecoach Inn Round Rock
