Mcclendon Price House

McClendon-Price House Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Austin & Tyler Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Significance of the McClendon-Price House

The McClendon-Price House stands as a distinguished symbol of Texas heritage, with historic homes bearing its name in both Austin and Tyler. This guide focuses on the McClendon-Price House in Austin, celebrated for its early 20th-century American Foursquare and Craftsman design, as well as the Victorian-era McClendon-Price House in Tyler. Both sites offer unique windows into their cities’ architectural, cultural, and social histories. Whether you are a history buff, architecture lover, or traveler eager to explore Texas’s rich past, this guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit. For up-to-date visiting hours and preservation details, consult the City of Austin Historic Preservation Office and the Texas History Portal.

Introduction
Austin: Historical Origins & Architectural Context
Austin: Social and Cultural Significance
Austin: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Austin: Photographic Spots & Nearby Attractions
Austin: Neighborhood Evolution & Historic District Integration
Austin: Preservation & Community Engagement
Austin: Visitor Experience & FAQs
Tyler: Architectural Style, Hours, and Tickets
Tyler: Guided Tours, Accessibility, and Facilities
Tyler: Cultural Insights & Visitor Tips
Tyler: FAQs & Contact Information
Summary & Resources

Discovering the McClendon-Price House in Austin

Historical Origins & Architectural Context

Located at 1606 Pearl Street, the McClendon-Price House is a prime example of early 20th-century American Foursquare and Craftsman architecture (Austin Historic Landmarks by Address). Constructed between 1900 and 1930, the house features handcrafted woodwork, locally sourced materials, and design elements that reflect Austin’s urban expansion of the era. Its architectural diversity is emblematic of the Old West Austin neighborhood, itself a testament to the city’s evolution and growth.

The McClendon-Price House is not only an architectural jewel but also a cornerstone of Austin’s civic legacy. Home to prominent figures—such as Judge James Wooten McClendon, a key figure in Texas jurisprudence, and Edwin “Ed” Price, a celebrated University of Texas football coach—the house has hosted leaders in law, education, and community advocacy. Their contributions have shaped both Austin’s judicial framework and its cultural and recreational landscape (Handbook of Texas Online; Texas Bar Journal).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Hours: Tours are by appointment Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Tickets: General admission is $10; discounts for children under 12 and Austin residents.
Group Tours: By request for groups of 10 or more.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entryways and restrooms; notify staff of specific needs when booking.
Booking: Schedule at least two weeks in advance via the City of Austin Historic Preservation or the Old West Austin Neighborhood Association.

Photographic Spots & Nearby Attractions

Photographic Highlights: Intricate woodwork, lush gardens, and tree-lined streets offer picturesque settings.
Nearby Sights:
- Pease Park (urban greenbelt and trails)
- Contemporary Austin-Laguna Gloria (Laguna Gloria)
- Historic Clarksville District
- University of Texas campus (Blanton Museum of Art, State Capitol, theater venues)

Neighborhood Evolution & Historic District Integration

Old West Austin developed as a desirable residential area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The McClendon-Price House is a contributing property within the Old West Austin Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting the neighborhood’s resilience against suburbanization and its commitment to historic preservation.

Preservation & Community Engagement

Preservation of the McClendon-Price House is a collaborative effort between the City of Austin, local organizations, and neighborhood residents. Restoration guidelines ensure its architectural and historical integrity, while community events and educational tours foster public engagement (City of Austin Historic Preservation).

Visitor Experience & Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: By appointment, Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: $10 general admission; discounts for children under 12 and Austin residents.

Q: Is the house accessible?
A: Yes, with wheelchair-friendly facilities.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment and during special events.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Street parking is available, but public transit or biking is recommended during busy times.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Exterior photography is allowed; interior photography is limited—check with staff.

The McClendon-Price House in Tyler: Victorian Heritage

Architectural Style and Design Elements

Built in 1878, the McClendon-Price House (also known as the Bonner-Whitaker-McClendon House) is one of Tyler’s finest examples of Eastlake Bracketed Victorian architecture. Its ornate woodwork, Italianate features, and intricate details capture the spirit of the late 19th century (e-a-a.com; Portal to Texas History).

Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location: 806 W. Houston St., Tyler, TX 75702
Hours: Fridays & Saturdays, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (McClendon House)
Tickets: $7 per person; children 12 and under free; group rates available.
Accessibility: Some limitations due to historic preservation; guests with mobility needs should call ahead.
Parking: Free on-site parking.

Guided Tours, Facilities, and Events

Guided Tours: Led by trained docents, with the option for costumed guides by arrangement.
Private Tours: Available outside regular hours for groups or special occasions.
Facilities: On-site restrooms; private event rentals for weddings or parties.
Photography: Allowed for personal use (restrictions on flash/tripods).
Events: The venue hosts educational programs, fundraisers, and seasonal community events (McClendon House; Visit Tyler).

Cultural and Historical Insights

Notable Figure: Birthplace of Sarah McClendon, pioneering White House correspondent (Meet Sarah).
Landmark Designation: Tyler Historic Landmark (1984) and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Community Role: Operates on community support, admissions, and rentals, fostering engagement with local heritage (McClendon House Tours).

Visitor Tips

Book private/group tours in advance.
Wear comfortable shoes; some areas lack climate control.
Pair your visit with other Tyler sites like the Goodman-LeGrand Home (Visit Tyler).
View high-quality images and take a virtual tour on the official website.

Frequently Asked Questions (Tyler)

Q: What are Tyler’s McClendon-Price House hours?
A: Fridays and Saturdays, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Check the official site for updates.

Q: Ticket price?
A: $7 per person; free for children 12 and under. Group discounts available.

Q: Is it wheelchair accessible?
A: Limited; contact ahead for arrangements.

Q: Are tours guided?
A: Yes—guided, private, and costumed tours by arrangement.

Summary of Key Points

The McClendon-Price House—whether in Austin or Tyler—offers visitors an immersive experience in Texas’s architectural, legal, and cultural history. In Austin, the house anchors the Old West Austin and Judges Hill historic districts, connecting visitors with the legacies of Judge McClendon, Coach Price, and other civic leaders. In Tyler, it stands as a Victorian gem and the birthplace of journalist Sarah McClendon. Both sites offer curated tours, accessible facilities, and proximity to significant cultural landmarks. Preservation efforts ensure these homes remain vibrant educational resources and community assets. For planning and updates, consult the City of Austin Historic Preservation or McClendon House in Tyler, and consider using the Audiala app for insider tips.