You know, West University Place, or West U as the locals call it, is not just a neighborhood. It’s a community. It’s a place with a story, a rich history, and a unique character unlike any other in Houston. This place is about families, about community pride, and about a history of strong independent spirit.
It all started in 1917 when Ben W. Hooper, a former governor of Tennessee, had the vision to develop this area into a community of country homes. West University Place was named for its proximity to Rice University, and soon, the streets were given names inspired by English literature, a clever move by Lillian “Lilly” Nicholson, a Rice University graduate. West University Place is brimming with stories like this.
In the 1920s, life in this burgeoning community wasn’t easy. Utilities were scarce, and Houston hesitated to invest in the region. Then, A.D. Foreman, the president of the Houston West End Realty Company, stepped in, using his own money to bring electricity, water, and telephone service to West U. It was a bold move, a testament to the strong spirit of the residents who were determined to make this place thrive.
And thrive it did. The community, dissatisfied with the mud and lack of basic services, came together to form their own city government in 1924. They were tired of being ignored by Houston, and so, they asserted themselves, building roads, providing services, and creating a sense of belonging that has continued to define West University Place.
Today, West University Place is not just a place to live; it’s a haven, a safe and prosperous haven for families and young professionals alike. It’s a testament to the foresight of its founding fathers and the perseverance of its residents. It’s a community, not just a neighborhood, and it’s a place where the stories are woven deep into the fabric of its history.