History buffs and residents in Carrollton, Texas, are in for a treat this weekend. The city is gearing up to celebrate one of its most enduring landmarks, the Boatwright House, with an official historical marker. According to the City of Carrollton, Texas, an unveiling ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, March 30, at 11 a.m., and will feature remarks from Carrollton Parks & Recreation Director Scott Whitaker as well as Mayor Steve Babick with City Council members in attendance.
The Queen Anne cottage-style dwelling, believed to have been built around 1900, stands as the city's oldest structure, outliving floods and changes through the decades. "Carrollton is excited to celebrate the placing of this historical marker," Whitaker said, "The marker serves as everlasting proof of the importance of the house and its owners in the City’s heritage," he remarked, according to the City of Carrollton, Texas.
The naming of the Boatwright House comes after its long-time occupants, F.B. and Fannie Bell Boatwright, who lived there for 47 years and played a vital role in the community – from rescuing neighbors during historical floods to renting rooms to people in need during the 30s and 40s. One notable tenant was Dr. Benji Frances Brooks, who not only taught in local schools but also went on to become the first pediatric surgeon in Texas, achieving induction into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame for her contributions to medicine and education.
Beyond its inhabitants, the Boatwright House also served the city in various capacities, including hosting community meetings in the 70s. "Homes like these are an integral part of the wellbeing of any community because they promote a sense of family, tradition, and in this case provide a place to meet and connect with neighbors," Mayor Babick said, according to the City of Carrollton, Texas. "They are a tangible reflection of a city’s quality of life and a gauge of time," he added, emphasizing the home's significance.
Since its inception, the building has seen various transformations, including conversion into a Christian bookstore and later into The Vintage House – a popular home and gift boutique run by the current caretakers, John and Nan Walvoord. To learn more about its rich past and current offerings, interested individuals can visit shopthepinkhouse.com.
