By Cassie Evans – Guest Blogger and Daughter of Dallas Dirt Queen, Candace Evans
This Mother’s Day, my mom, Candace Evans (affectionately known as the Dallas Dirt Queen), and I skipped the traditional brunch. Instead, we embraced our shared passion: exploring remarkable homes. We spent a delightful afternoon immersed in the Swiss Avenue Historic District’s Mother’s Day Home Tour, an annual event that showcases some of Dallas’s most significant and beautifully preserved architectural treasures. Every moment of the tour was a true pleasure, offering a unique glimpse into the rich history and elegant design that defines this iconic neighborhood.
The weather was gloriously warm, a balmy 90 degrees, but with ample bottles of water and our most comfortable shoes, we were perfectly equipped to tackle the day. While the tour featured eight magnificent homes, we managed to explore four of them thoroughly. Our pace was delightfully unhurried, partly because we kept encountering friends and fellow architecture enthusiasts. These spontaneous chats along the scenic, tree-lined sidewalks of Swiss Avenue added an extra layer of charm to the experience. It felt like stepping into a classic old movie, with everyone dressed in their spring best, strolling along with refreshing lemonade in hand. It was, in a word, perfection.
The tour extended beyond the homes themselves. Savage Park, a vibrant hub, offered a lively gathering spot for visitors. Here, we found delicious lunch options, various beverages, a refreshing SnoCone truck, and invigorating live music. Numerous interesting booths dotted the park, each adding to the festive atmosphere and community spirit of the event. It was a wonderful place to relax and soak in the ambiance between house visits.
Among the many fascinating booths, I must confess, my absolute favorite was the Scottie Dog rescue booth. Their dedication to these charming, spirited canines was truly heartwarming, and it was a joy to see so many adorable Scotties looking for their forever homes.
Speaking of dogs, Swiss Avenue itself was bustling with furry friends. We spotted countless canines enjoying the day with their owners, and even saw one particularly dapper Chinese Crested dog touring a home! Truly, a delight for any dog lover.
Despite capturing numerous photos of my favorite moments and details from the tour, I sadly didn’t manage to get a picture of Mom and me together. I’ll chalk it up to feeling a bit less than photogenic in the Dallas heat, while Mom, as always, looked absolutely radiant. C’est la vie! But now, let’s delve into my top picks from the houses we toured.
A Glimpse into Dallas’s Historic Elegance: The Swiss Avenue Home Tour Highlights
Our journey began at the magnificent estate located at 5421 Swiss Avenue, currently owned by Louise and James Finley.
Here’s another perspective, just as I saw it from the enthusiastic queue of visitors:
This architectural masterpiece, constructed in 1917, was a lavish wedding gift from Jesse David Padgitt, owner of the prominent Padgitt Brothers Company (established in Dallas in 1869 as a leading leather-goods provider), to his son. Designed by the renowned architect Hal B. Thompson, this elegant house masterfully blends Italian Renaissance and distinct Colonial influences, creating a truly impressive facade and interior. For merchants of that era, a grand residence was a statement, and this one certainly delivered. It’s truly wonderful that such a significant piece of Dallas’s history is still standing. The charming flowers adorning the shutters evoke a picturesque coastal New England vibe, reminding me specifically of the quaint beauty of Kennebunkport.
My absolute favorite room in this house was the toile guest bedroom. The description of the bed as an antique from a French brothel immediately captured my imagination, lending a unique and intriguing energy to the space. It was a conversation starter for sure!
One cannot help but admire the exquisite, ornate molding found throughout this home. Such detailed craftsmanship is a rare sight in contemporary constructions, underscoring the enduring appeal and quality of historic architecture.
Another fascinating detail was the home’s rare 1876-1920 Minneapolis Honeywell Clock Thermometer. This invention by Frederick Denison, patented in 1876, had a surprisingly diverse history. Initially used in the manufacturing of mottled cotton seed oil soap, where precise temperature control was crucial, it later found vital applications during World War I. The device proved perfect for maintaining ship boiler pressure and addressing various other Army and Navy requirements. Its dual civilian and military history makes it a truly remarkable artifact.
Adjacent to the bar and butler’s pantry was the most charming, minuscule marble powder room. It was perfectly appointed for any guest finding themselves in a moment of need, adding a touch of discreet elegance.
As we concluded our visit, the owners’ delightful collection of Vespas, displayed prominently near the exit, caught our eye. It certainly sparked a whimsical desire to zip off to the market with a fresh flower tucked behind my ear!
Modern Elegance Meets Historic Charm: 5408 Swiss Ave.
Our next stop was 5408 Swiss Avenue, a home that instantly captivated me with its clean and inviting exterior. The façade exuded a welcoming elegance that was hard to resist.
Here’s a closer look at some of the exterior details I particularly admired – intricate design elements that are truly absent in most modern constructions today:
Built and designed in 1917, 5408 Swiss Avenue embodies the Beaux-Arts architectural style, a grand and ornate aesthetic that flourished during America’s Gilded Age. This is beautifully exemplified by the striking “white-on-white” confection of its exterior. The current owners, Joanna and John Hampton, both accomplished architects, acquired the property in 2011 and embarked on extensive renovations, including critical roof and water damage repairs. The home is a continuous labor of love, with ongoing restoration efforts. What truly makes this house stand out is the harmonious contrast between its traditional, historic exterior and its interior, which boasts an eclectic yet sophisticated mix of modern furnishings and treasured heirloom pieces. This blend creates a dynamic and truly unique living space.
The Hamptons completely reimagined the kitchen, transforming it into a sleek, white, modern culinary haven. I was particularly impressed by how the gorgeous modern accoutrements and appliances contrasted beautifully with the home’s original moldings and doors, creating a dialogue between past and present.
I also observed a thoughtful detail: despite the home being adorned with both contemporary art and historic pieces, all artworks were hung in a manner that meticulously protected the original walls. This attention to preservation was a consistent theme across nearly all the homes we visited on the tour.
The dining room featured elegant mid-century modern furniture complemented by ultra-modern light fixtures, a stylistic choice that resonated throughout the home’s updated spaces.
The floral arrangements within the home were also notably distinct and exciting, adding fresh bursts of color and creativity. As a former rower, I was particularly amused to discover an ergometer (rowing machine) in the upstairs laundry room. Positioned amidst windows overlooking the backyard (which itself is currently undergoing renovation), it offered quite a scenic view for a workout session!
An Italian Renaissance Palazzo: 5907 Swiss Ave.
Our journey continued as we quickly moved to 5907 Swiss Avenue, another architectural marvel.
This stunning Italian Renaissance palazzo, designed in 1927 by the renowned Bertram Hill, is a testament to his architectural genius. Hill is celebrated for creating several iconic Dallas landmarks, including the Adolphus Hotel and the Coca-Cola Bottling Company Building. This particular home has even been featured as one of the ten most beautiful houses in Dallas, and its prestige is further highlighted by the existence of a replica on Beverly Drive in Highland Park. When your home inspires a replica in a neighboring affluent zip code, you know it’s truly fabulous! Sharon and Mike Jones, the current owners, purchased the home in 2007 and have since meticulously filled it with sumptuous furnishings and exquisite antiques, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury. Adding to the delightful experience, Sharon and Mike were personally in their backyard, generously serving frozen margaritas, iced tea, and lemonade to tour-goers, making it undoubtedly the most festive home we visited!
I was instantly captivated by the meticulous details in the dining room, especially the soft, pastel hydrangeas that provided a delicate touch of color.
I soon discovered that these beautiful blooms were freshly cut from the home’s own flourishing garden, adding to their charm and authenticity.
Also on the first floor, we admired the intricately detailed original stained-glass windows, which cast colorful patterns of light into the rooms.
The craftsmanship extended to the intricate moldings that adorned ceilings and walls, showcasing the artisanal skill of a bygone era.
And then there was the breakfast room, offering a lovely view of the backyard and boasting the most incredible original tile floor I’ve ever seen – a true mosaic of history underfoot!
I particularly enjoyed the striking contrast of the green-colored cabinetry set against the owners’ exquisite blue and white china collection, creating a vibrant and charming aesthetic.
The kitchen was the only room that had been completely renovated and expanded by the owners, and it certainly did not disappoint. One word: breathtaking!
Can you imagine gorgeous white marble countertops, fabulous custom cabinetry, and an abundance of natural light streaming in? It was a dream kitchen for any culinary enthusiast.
The living room, situated just off the kitchen, was immaculately decorated, but its undisputed focal point was the magnificent imported antique fireplace, radiating timeless grandeur.
Adding to the charm, I spotted an antique Hubley Boston Terrier doorstop. I have one almost identical at home, which initially startled and barked at my own dogs!
The owners also showcased these absolutely amazing ostrich tables, elegantly flanking a pair of chairs. They were a unique and delightful design choice.
I simply “died” over them – they were that good!
The stairwell ascended with a grand presence, and I particularly adored the “gossip” seat, a charming window seat nestled on the landing, perfect for quiet contemplation or friendly chats.
Upstairs, the home’s original condition has been graciously preserved, offering a genuine step back in time. Here’s a peek into one of the two inviting guest rooms:
The real showstoppers on the second floor were the two original guest bathrooms. Have you ever encountered an old dental sink in a private home? It was incredibly charming and unique!
And, of course, a perfectly matching color-coordinated toilet completed the vintage ensemble, a truly delightful detail.
This original shower, though remarkably tiny, boasted an impressive nine showerheads, all still original! The “jail bars” at the top, designed to allow steam to escape, were a clever and intriguing touch.
I believe this was the master bedroom. The plush, fluffy bed adorned with exquisite white linens looked absolutely heavenly and utterly inviting.
A beautiful glass-door armoire provided a stylish and functional way to display fresh linens, adding to the room’s serene ambiance.
I also managed to sneak a peek into the master closet, which must have originally served as a porch, given its expansive size – it was practically an entire room unto itself!
But fear not, the home still features a fabulous second-story outdoor patio, offering picturesque views of the well-manicured backyard.
Finally, we ventured to the charming carriage house situated above the garage. The current owners had completely gutted and rebuilt it, and in a truly heartwarming touch, furnished it with pieces from their childhood homes. This delightful space includes a full kitchen, a cozy dining area (featuring a noteworthy antique dough table),
a comfortable bedroom,
and an amazing bathroom complete with farmhouse-style walls, a spacious walk-in shower, and this delectable antique sink – it felt like a perfect, self-contained retreat.
Honestly, I was ready to move right into that carriage house!
The Crown Jewel of Swiss Avenue: 6243 La Vista Dr. and the Legend of Willetta Stellmacher
Our final stop was 6243 La Vista Drive, majestically perched at the very top of Swiss Avenue. Locally known as “The Crown Jewel of Swiss Avenue,” I simply call it “the house across the street from my post office.”
I had been particularly intrigued by this home, having seen a “coming soon” for-sale sign in front of it for many months, wondering about its story and the delay in listing. Naturally, we seized the opportunity to uncover its rich history.
Built in 1926 for paving magnate Robert Campbell Stubbs and his wife, Marie, this grand residence is widely believed to have been designed by the legendary Dallas architect Otto H. Lang. Tragically, Mr. Stubbs passed away just one year after the home’s completion, but his widow, Marie, continued to live and entertain within its elegant walls until 1940. Following World War II, the home was converted into apartments, a common fate for many large estates of that era, before being restored to single-family use in the 1970s. The most recent owner, Willetta Sherrill Stellmacher, acquired the home in 1987. Willetta recently passed away, but we were incredibly fortunate to view some of the fascinating memorabilia from her truly extraordinary life.
Willetta Stellmacher was a former Vaudeville performer and showgirl who famously “rubbed elbows” with icons like Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, and Lawrence Welk. Her life was nothing short of COLORFUL. Beyond her theatrical past, Stellmacher was recognized as an astute businesswoman and a famously tough-as-nails landlord for the apartments she owned (three of which are located behind this main house and come with the property, one currently rented by a tenant of 18 years!). As the Lakewood/East Dallas Advocate colorfully described her, she was a “pistol-packin’ mama.” It was rumored that Willetta had strict rules for her tenants, forbidding motorcycles, men with long hair, or beards – so, no hipsters allowed!
Here are some captivating photos from Willetta’s personal collection, offering a glimpse into her vibrant past:
I’m fairly certain that if we had ever met Willetta, we would have instantly become the best of friends. You see, Willetta was crowned Cook’s Champagne Girl of 1940, and it’s rumored she had a profound love for champagne, enjoying a glass whenever the mood struck, even at breakfast! We met her best friend’s daughter on the tour, who shared a touching anecdote: Cook’s had promised Willetta free champagne for life, upon request. When her beloved best friend passed away, Willetta promptly called Cook’s and arranged for two cases of champagne to be delivered to her deceased friend’s family, ensuring they could properly toast their cherished loved one. What an incredible woman!
Moreover, Willetta possessed a truly feisty spirit. She once famously declared that she got her kicks by mowing her lawn in a tight, flesh-colored bathing suit, “just to cause rubbernecks to have wrecks.” I say, let’s all raise a glass of champagne right now and toast this amazing woman and her wonderfully irreverent sense of humor!
The house has been largely cleared of her personal belongings, though some rooms have been tastefully staged with furniture and decor. Unfortunately, the air conditioning was either broken or nonexistent, making for a warm tour. So, I efficiently captured photos of my favorite architectural details before making a swift exit to the PTA lemonade stand. Just behold these magnificent ceilings and intricate moldings found throughout the home:
And this original bathroom was simply divine! I absolutely adored the vibrant bright blue tiles perfectly accented with sparkling crystal and crisp white fixtures. It felt so incredibly fresh and unique! This room absolutely must remain untouched for a very, very long time.
And take a look at two of the magnificent fireplaces, each a focal point of its respective room, showcasing the period’s craftsmanship:
The kitchen, on the other hand, was a glorious time capsule from the 1970s – hello, charcoal burner! A stark contrast to the modern kitchens we’d seen earlier.
While the kitchen might need updating, look at these original windows! How utterly captivating are the wisteria panes? They immediately brought to mind the expansive wisteria trellis at the Dallas Arboretum, adding a touch of natural beauty to the interior.
This grand home (not the mini replica seen below) is currently being offered at $1.5 million. It’s certainly a dream worth couponing for!
All in all, it was a truly fabulous Mother’s Day, filled with the splendor of amazing old homes, plenty of refreshing lemonade, and the incomparable company of the best mom a girl could ever wish for.
xx
Cassie