Few might know the story behind this house. This is the Dr. H. V. Copeland Home. It stands as a testament to a life dedicated to service. Let’s step back in time and explore the history of this remarkable place.
The story begins in 1902. Barney P. Hale and his wife Ruth built this white clapboard residence. Its narrow windows and high-pitched roof were typical of early farmhouses. In 1908, the Hales sold their home. The buyer was a local physician named Dr. Horace Victor Copeland.
Dr. Copeland was born in the Watson Community. This area is now part of Arlington. He studied at Barnes University in St. Louis. He also attended Fort Worth University. He earned his medical degree in 1901.
After a year of practice in Euless, he moved to Grand Prairie. At the time, Grand Prairie was a small railroad town. Only about 500 people lived here. Dr. Copeland served the residents of the surrounding rural area. He often made house calls on horseback.
During his career, Dr. Copeland delivered over 4,000 babies. He was more than just a doctor. He was a prominent community leader. He was active in the First Presbyterian Church. He also participated in the Sam R. Hamilton Masonic Lodge.
Dr. Copeland’s wife was Frances Willard Watson Copeland. They had two children named Frances and H. Victor. Dr. Copeland passed away in 1969. After his death, his grandson Wayne Noble Doyal owned the family home.
Dr. Copeland’s impact on Grand Prairie was immense. He arrived in 1902. He witnessed the town grow from 500 residents to a suburban city of about 50,000. He was often called the “dean of the medical profession”. He delivered multiple generations of some families.
In the early 1900s, Grand Prairie was small. It had a general store, a grocery store, and a drug store. The post office was located in the drug store. Dr. Copeland hung his shingle there.
Transportation was challenging. He traveled on horseback or in a two-wheel cart. Sometimes, he rode the trolley. He would walk two miles to avoid six to eight miles through mud. He bought his first car, a Hupmobile, in 1910.
The 1918 influenza epidemic was a difficult time. Many people died. However, Dr. Copeland lost only three patients. He was constantly busy for months. The demand for his services was great.
Frances Watson Copeland meticulously kept a notebook. It contained major and minor family events for 51 years. This diary is a cherished prize for the Copeland family.
The Dr. H. V. Copeland Home still stands at 125 SW Dallas St. It is a reminder of a dedicated doctor. He served his community with compassion and skill. The Texas Historical Commission recognized its significance in 1982. The Dr. H. V. Copeland Home is more than just a building. It represents a legacy of service and community spirit.