Machemehl Family House

The Machemehl Family House, built in the early 1900’s, was a center of social activity for the German-Texan community of Bellville, Texas and is a Texas Historical Landmark. [1]

Location

The house has a southwestern view of the historic German-Texan settlement of Cat Springs, Texas. In its present condition, large oaks and magnolias trees presently surround the house. It is located one and a half mils from the town square of Bellville, Texas. [2]

Style of Architeture

The Machemehl Family House is a significant example of the Craftsman bungalow designed by prominent Houston architect Alfred C. Finn, this house is unusual for its one-and-one-half story form. The residence displays hallmark geometric ornamentation, broad porches, and a small second floor that rises above the first floor roofline in a form sometimes called "airplane bungalow". [3]

Construction

Built in 1920 for prominent rancher and civic leader Louis A. Machemehl (1881-1952), his wife Adelheid (d. 1949), and their five children, the house was a center of social activity. It remained in the Machemehl family until 1953. [4]

Historical Recognition of the House

The House was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1992. [5]

Historical Figures Related to the House

Three prominent German-Texans have lived at this house: Paul Machemehl, Louis A. Machemehl, and Charles W. Machemehl.