Uncover the Enduring History and Architectural Heritage of Judges Hill
Austin’s First Lots
The earliest properties in what would become Judges Hill originated in the mid-19th century, with land records showing initial purchases as early as 1847 and significant plots established through sales and homestead patents by the 1850s. Among the first notable homes constructed on this newly acquired land was Westhill, a distinctive Greek Revival residence built for Reuben Runner around 1855, marking the beginning of residential development in the area.
1800s Marvels
Among the many historic buildings in Judges Hill, is the Goodall Wooten house, built in 1898. The house was built for Goodall H. Wooten and his wife Ella. The building has been used for many different things, family housing, student housing, a drug treatment facility etc. but operates today as a hotel “Hotel Ella”.
1900s Architectural Masterworks
The historic buildings and estates in Judges Hill feature many different types imported architectural styles. Take for example, the Malcom-Reed house. Built in the 1920s, this amazing estate showcases an Italian Renaissance style, rarely seen in the Southern USA. What’s unfortunate is that similar homes designed in the early 1900s by Hal Thomson have been torn down by developers. This property has survived thanks to it’s historic designation.
Modern Significance
While most of the notable properties in Judges Hill have significance because of 100+ years of history. The McClendon - Kozmetsky house is historic because of its recent history. The house is relatively new: Built by Judge James McClendon and his wife Anne Watt McClendon in 1955, and purchased by the Kozmetsky family in 1966. This is where George Kozmetsky mentored Michael Dell while he developed his original business plan for Dell Technologies Inc.