Off a Brenham highway and up a winding dirt road that meanders through wildflower fields sits The Citadel. This historic venue, once conceived as a golf course — and later reimagined as a private residence — sits on 48 acres and is currently on the market for $5.95 million.
The charming property is represented by Janet Dreyer with the Country Properties Group of Sotheby's International Realty.
While the living space is two-bedroom, two-bath , the home offers ample space across its more than 7,000 square feet for entertaining, living, or event hosting. Be it an investment piece, event venue, or weekend hideaway, The Citadel (3401 US Highway 290 East) offers an array of options for its next owner.
Originally built in 1924, the main residence has been meticulously refurbished while preserving its classic Art Deco style. Wide verandas on both of the home's levels provide picturesque views of the setting sun.
A sweeping staircase beckons arriving guests to explore the first floor's grand ballroom, warm bar spaces, and inviting fireplaces, all of which offer spaces for memory making.
The Citadel's expansive grounds are equally impressive, with terraced land previously used as a vineyard, and sprawling lawns that can host family picnics, parties, and wedding receptions.
Designed and built by the famed renowned Houston architect Alfred C. Finn, who crafted the iconic San Jacinto Monument and many other famous landmarks, the property was originally envisioned as a social club, complete with a nine-hole golf course. It offered opportunities for men to hit the links while ladies hosted card games and garden parties in the main house.
By 1926, The Citadel had evolved into a country club. Five years later, in the depths of the Great Depression, it would be auctioned off and transformed into a private residence. For a time, colorful Texas eccentric Johnnie Mae Hackworth called it home.
Now, The Citadel is ready for another owner to come in with the vision and imagination to transform it yet again. It could become a vineyard that provides a spot for weekend daytrippers and wine education, or a retreat from Houston's hustle and bustle. The possibilities are as endless as its sweeping vistas.
TK Images
The Citadel was designed and built by renowned Houston architect Albert C. Finn.
