Dreaming of simpler times? Right here stands the Gilbert House Plaque. It marks a place with a rich history. This isn’t just any house. It represents a significant piece of Irving’s past.
Let’s step back in time. The Gilbert House, also known as the Joffre-Gilbert home, earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. This was a first for Irving. Dr. Clay W. Gilbert celebrated this honor with the Irving Heritage Society.
A. Fred Joffre built the home in 1919. He envisioned it as his dream residence. Its original address was 309 Iowa Street. Later, it became 309 South O’Connor Road. Dr. Franklin Monroe and his wife Dorothy purchased it in 1939. Dr. Clay W. Gilbert became the owner in 1977.
This is no ordinary house. The Joffre-Gilbert home features a Craftsman Style bungalow design. People often call it an “airplane bungalow”. Its wide, low, front-facing gable end gives it this nickname. The centrally-placed second floor resembles a cockpit. Originally, wood clapboard siding covered the house. Perma-Stone was added to the first floor in 1947-1949. The front porch boasts an open-timbered gable. Modified “cross log” support columns add to its unique charm.
The Gilbert family played a vital role in Irving’s history. Dr. Franklin Monroe Gilbert followed his father’s footsteps. Dr. Daniel W. Gilbert was Irving’s first physician and pharmacist. He started serving the community around 1878. Dr. F.M. Gilbert began his medical practice in 1920. He established Irving’s first clinic. This offered 24-hour care before the area had a hospital.
Dr. F.M. Gilbert also served as Mayor of Irving from 1932 to 1937. He dedicated fifty years to the Irving State Bank and its successors. He was president from 1938 to 1954. He also served on the Irving Independent School District board.
Both Dr. D.W. and F.M. Gilbert provided Irving with a century of uninterrupted service. They cared for the poor and the African American community. This was during a time of racial division.
The National Register of Historic Places recognized the Joffre-Gilbert Home for two reasons. First, it’s associated with significant people. Second, it embodies a distinctive type of construction. The United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service gave this honor on August 1, 2014. A plaque now stands here. It recognizes this home’s historical value. The Gilbert House Plaque reminds us of Irving’s past. It honors the Gilbert family’s contributions. Take a moment to appreciate this piece of local history.