“Under contract and threatened with demolition.” That was the dire situation facing the Kirby Mansion not so long ago. But let’s step back in time and explore the fascinating story of this historic home.
The Kirby Mansion stands as a testament to Houston’s past. It showcases the life and legacy of John Henry Kirby. Kirby was a lawyer, lumberman, and oilman. He rose to prominence as Houston’s first tycoon at the turn of the century.
Originally built in 1894 by J.S. Price, Kirby purchased the home two years later. The Kirby Mansion initially sported a Victorian design. However, Kirby desired something more modern. He commissioned James Ruskin Bailey to update the home. Bailey was tasked with creating a grand, 36-room English manor.
The transformation of the Kirby Mansion occurred in the 1920s. It reflected Kirby’s growing wealth and status. Interestingly, Kirby was superstitious. He instructed Bailey to retain part of the old house in the new structure. He didn’t want to live in a completely new house. The result was the Tudor Revival-style building we see today.
John Henry Kirby was deeply involved in Houston’s civic life. An article mentions Kirby inviting Tyler County boys to witness the Democratic Party’s workings. He hosted them at his home during the 1928 Democratic Convention.
Kirby passed away in 1940. Seven years later, his wife Lelia sold the Kirby Mansion. From 1948, the Kirby Mansion served as an office building. For 30 years, it housed the Houston-Harris County Red Cross headquarters. It even served as the official headquarters of the 1990 Economic Summit. World leaders were hosted here.
In 1992, attorney Phillip H. Azar purchased the Kirby Mansion. He undertook efforts to restore the building. However, by 2018, the Kirby Mansion faced an uncertain future. There were concerns it could be demolished. Preservation Houston advocated for the building’s rehabilitation.
Today, the Kirby Mansion is valued at $3.9 million. It sits on a 62,500-square-foot block near the Pierce Elevated. The area is bounded by Brazos, Pierce, Smith, and Gray. While the once-famous gardens have been converted to surface parking lots, the major reception rooms have been preserved.
The Kirby Mansion stands as one of the few survivors from the once-elite South End residential neighborhood. It reminds us of Houston’s rich history and the prominent figures who shaped the city. The Kirby Mansion is a tangible link to the past. It connects us to the dreams and ambitions of those who came before us.