After a two-year hiatus, the cherished traditions of Fort Worth are making a grand return, and leading the way is the historic Ryan Place neighborhood. This December, prepare to be captivated as Ryan Place proudly presents its 38th Candlelight Christmas Tour of Homes. This highly anticipated event, a cornerstone of Fort Worth’s holiday festivities, promises an enchanting journey through some of the city’s most beautifully preserved and lovingly renovated residences, all adorned with festive cheer.
As the oldest and most revered home tour in Fort Worth, the Candlelight Christmas Tour of Homes in Ryan Place offers a unique glimpse into the rich architectural heritage and vibrant community spirit of this iconic neighborhood. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend: the tour will take place on Saturday, December 3rd, from noon to 9 p.m., and continue on Sunday, December 4th, from noon to 5 p.m. This year’s selection of homes is particularly impressive, showcasing a diverse array of styles spanning five decades, each with its own captivating story.
Visitors will not only admire stunning holiday decorations but also gain insight into the meticulous efforts involved in preserving and modernizing these historic gems. From grand Georgian estates to charming Prairie-style bungalows and mid-century ranches, the tour celebrates the enduring appeal of Ryan Place’s distinctive character and the dedication of its residents to maintaining its timeless charm. Join us to experience the magic of a Fort Worth Christmas, illuminated by candlelight and steeped in history.
Discover the Enduring Charm of Ryan Place
Ryan Place, established in the early 20th century, holds a special place in Fort Worth’s history as its very first planned residential development. Envisioned as an upscale community, it quickly became a beacon of architectural excellence and sophisticated living. However, the economic turmoil of the Great Depression, particularly after the stock market crash of 1929, cast a long shadow over the neighborhood. Construction slowed dramatically, leaving many planned lots vacant and the once bustling development in a state of quiet contemplation.
For decades, Ryan Place experienced a period of stagnation. Many visitors today might mistakenly assume that the charming 1950s ranch houses scattered throughout the area replaced older, torn-down structures. In reality, these homes are a testament to the neighborhood’s resilience and a unique chapter in its redevelopment. As the economy recovered, vacant parcels that had once been earmarked for grander, earlier styles were eventually developed with the popular ranch-style homes of the mid-century, adding another layer to Ryan Place’s rich architectural tapestry.
The “Ryan Place Renaissance” of recent decades marks a significant resurgence in the neighborhood’s vitality. A renewed appreciation for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and strong community ties has attracted a new generation of homeowners dedicated to preservation and thoughtful renovation. This renaissance is beautifully exemplified in the homes featured on the Candlelight Christmas Tour, each telling a part of Ryan Place’s ongoing story of evolution, restoration, and enduring appeal.
The Norman House: A Blend of History and Modern Living
The Norman family’s home stands as a prime example of thoughtful modernization within a historic framework. From 2020 to 2021, they embarked on an extensive renovation of their gracious, traditional-style residence. This comprehensive project aimed to bring the 1930s vintage bungalow up to contemporary standards of comfort and functionality while preserving its inherent charm. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, where historical character meets modern convenience.
One of the most notable improvements includes the primary bedroom and bath, which were meticulously designed and built to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all. Throughout the home, newly installed bleached, white oak flooring provides a fresh, contemporary aesthetic that beautifully complements the original architecture. This subtle yet impactful change brightens the interiors and offers a sense of spaciousness.
The staircase, a central architectural feature, showcases a remarkable contemporary invention. Its elegant metal railings and sleek glass panels create a striking visual statement, transforming a functional element into a work of art. Beyond the main living areas, the Normans ingeniously reclaimed attic space to create an added second floor. This versatile area now serves as a lively family room, particularly when their nine grandchildren visit, highlighting the home’s capacity to adapt to modern family life while honoring its heritage.
The Teems House: A Ranch Home Reborn in the Ryan Place Renaissance
The Teems home is a particularly compelling inclusion in this year’s tour, representing a vital facet of the Ryan Place Renaissance. This unassuming one-story ranch, built in 1952, embodies the very spirit of revival and transformation that defines the neighborhood. Its story offers a fascinating counter-narrative to the grander, earlier homes, showcasing how mid-century residences contribute significantly to the area’s unique historical fabric.
Purchased in 1974 for a modest $17,000, this property stood at the very genesis of the modern Ryan Place revival. It underwent an initial, crucial renovation to bring it “up to snuff” at a time when interest in the neighborhood was just beginning to stir. However, by the time the Teems family acquired it in 2021, the house had fallen into disrepair, neglected and untended, signaling the need for another extensive overhaul.
The Teems’ renovation was a monumental undertaking, lasting a grueling 14 months. It involved the removal of an astonishing 2,500 square feet of concrete and 180 cubic yards of debris, demonstrating the sheer scale of work required to restore its glory. Beyond structural improvements, the home itself has become a repository for Fort Worth’s rich history. The Teems have amassed an extraordinary collection of historical artifacts, including century-old stained glass salvaged from the iconic Quality Hill neighborhood and exquisite 19th-century gates that once graced St. Joseph Hospital. These elements not only add unique character to the home but also serve as tangible links to Fort Worth’s past, making the Teems house a living museum within Ryan Place.
The Gibbs-Jones House: Prairie Style Elegance Renewed
The Gibbs-Jones House, a classic 1928 Prairie Style bungalow, showcases a masterful blend of preservation and modern amenity. This residence underwent a “deft redo” at the hands of experienced renovator Terri West, who expertly updated its features while meticulously retaining the best of its vintage charm. The Prairie Style, known for its emphasis on horizontal lines, open floor plans, and integration with the landscape, finds a beautiful expression in this home, which truly respects its architectural roots.
Among the preserved elements are the charming period shiplap walls, which add a rustic yet refined texture and a strong sense of history to the interiors. The renovation ensures that modern living standards are met without sacrificing the authenticity and character that make this bungalow so special. Visitors will appreciate how West’s thoughtful approach has brought this historic home into the 21st century while honoring the design principles that define the Prairie Style, offering a comfortable and stylish living space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The Johnston Home: Grandeur by a Fabled Architect
It’s perhaps no mere coincidence that one of Ryan Place’s most admired couples, known for their vibrant community presence, now resides in one of the grandest houses featured on this year’s tour. This magnificent Georgian-style residence was designed by none other than Joseph R. Pelich, the original architect behind Fort Worth’s most fabled theater, Casa Mañana. Pelich’s architectural legacy is woven into the very fabric of Fort Worth, and this home stands as a testament to his enduring talent and vision.
The Johnston home, a prominent landmark on many a neighborhood dog walk, was, for a time, desperately in need of serious tender loving care. Its recent renovation has breathed new life into its stately walls, restoring it to its former glory and enhancing its inherent elegance. Stepping into the foyer, visitors are immediately greeted by classic black and white marble floors—a perfect preview of the thoughtful and well-considered renovation that unfolds throughout the entire residence. Every detail, from the grand entrance to the meticulously updated living spaces, reflects a commitment to architectural integrity and timeless style. This home not only showcases Pelich’s genius but also the dedication of its current owners to preserving a piece of Fort Worth’s architectural heritage for future generations.
The Holland Home: The First House of Ryan Place
The Holland Home holds a truly unique and foundational place in the history of Ryan Place. This remarkable Prairie-style residence was not just one of the early homes in the development, but a pioneering structure that literally made news. In September 1911, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram proudly announced the purchase and construction of this very house, highlighting its significance as the very first residence built in the burgeoning Ryan Place neighborhood. Its construction marked the initial step in transforming a grand vision into a tangible community, setting the standard for the architectural excellence that would define the area.
The Prairie style, characterized by its strong horizontal lines, low-pitched roofs, and open interior spaces, was a revolutionary architectural movement in the early 20th century, seeking to integrate homes with the American landscape. The Holland Home embodies these principles beautifully, offering a timeless example of this distinctive style. Its place on the Candlelight Christmas Tour is a tribute to its historical importance and its continued relevance as a testament to Ryan Place’s origins. Visitors will appreciate the opportunity to step inside a home that quite literally started it all, offering a tangible link to the neighborhood’s formative years and the visionary development that shaped it.
This special Prairie-style home continues to be a source of fascination and pride, and its inclusion in the Ryan Place Candlelight Christmas Tour of Homes underscores its enduring legacy. Its story is not just one of architecture, but of community, innovation, and the enduring spirit of Fort Worth itself. It is truly worthy of its spot on this esteemed tour, inviting guests to delve into a significant piece of local history.
Plan Your Visit: Candlelight Christmas Tour of Homes
Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and historical grandeur of Ryan Place. The 38th Candlelight Christmas Tour of Homes offers an unparalleled experience, blending holiday magic with architectural splendor. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday season, discover the rich heritage of Fort Worth, and support the vibrant community that makes Ryan Place so special.
Tickets for this enchanting event are priced between $20 and $30 and are conveniently available for purchase online through Eventbrite. For those who prefer to purchase tickets in person, they will also be available on the days of the tour at St. John’s Anglican Church, located on Elizabeth Boulevard, which serves as a central hub for the event. We encourage early ticket purchase to ensure your place on this highly sought-after tour.
Prepare to be inspired by the exquisite renovations, unique historical artifacts, and festive decorations that grace each home. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a charming holiday experience, the Ryan Place Candlelight Christmas Tour of Homes promises an unforgettable journey through one of Fort Worth’s most beloved neighborhoods. We look forward to welcoming you to this cherished annual tradition!