Seller Story: Moody, TX

“My husband Tommy and I have lived in The Howard House since 1995, when we became its proud third owners. We’re from Waxahachie, Texas, but had been in California for ten years when we decided to return to our home state. I’d always dreamed of living in a Victorian home. Through the hands of fate and a long line of coincidences, the Howard Home sale advertisement came via a friend of a friend of my sister-in law — on the very first morning of our house-hunting trip. I was drawn to the house immediately; it was love at first sight.

Charles Howard built the house in 1902 after his first home burned on the same piece of property. His family included his wife Florence and their children Rassie and Dorothy. Dorothy married a lawyer and moved to Waxahachie. Rassie lived in the old family home until she sold the house to longtime Moody residents, Bert and “Beans” Vandiver, in 1973.

The Vandivers restored the home to its original beauty. The entryway features large Queen Victorian fretwork panels which were imported from France at the turn of the century. The carved fretwork continues throughout the home, along with six coal-burning fireplaces, each with its own uniquely carved mantle, also imported from France. Stained glass windows adorn five different rooms of the house. The original pinewood floors were in perfect condition when my husband Tommy and I removed the 1970’s carpet and linoleum. I had always been attracted to antique furniture and unusual artistic pieces, so all of my furniture from my California modern home fit perfectly.

My favorite part of the property is the backyard, which has many large oak trees and a wooden swing that Tommy made for me. It takes me immediately back to my childhood, and seeing my grandchildren swing on it has brought me the most joy.” – Sarah Melton

Are there some pieces in the sale that are from the original owners?

The walnut bedroom suite and dresser belonged to Dorothy Howard, who moved to Waxahachie, my hometown. I bought them back from her son’s mother-in-law. Of course, they matched perfectly with the unusually shaped Victorian cupola room in the house. The Rococo-style embroidered armchair and the pink velvet chair with mother of pearl inlay were also original to the house. I was told all of the original furniture came from France.

What’s your favorite fashion piece?

I love the lace Victorian-era reproduction gown, which I wore to the renowned Waxahachie "Gingerbread Ball” during the 1980’s.

What else do you love?

The Pulaski bedroom suite is the most beautiful reproduction I’ve ever seen. I bought it at a grand estate in the hills near Newport Beach. And one of my favorites is the Victoria-era hat and umbrella rack. It originated in Europe and I bought at the Austin Auction. I have never seen one quite like it; it’s very tall and slim and fits very well on the small wall at the entryway of our home. The rack is ornately carved and very beautiful. I love that piece.