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Elizabeth Mast Markets W.A. Criswell's Swiss Avenue Jacobethan Manor House

This blog post details the stunning Jacobethan manor house located at 5901 Swiss Avenue, Dallas, a historic home with a rich past and extensive modern updates. Built in 1924 by M. E. Faber for C.A. Tucker at an original cost of $17,500, the property later served as the parsonage for the renowned Reverend W.A. Criswell, former head of the Southern Baptist Convention, for 66 years from 1942. Criswell's leadership saw First Baptist become the nation’s largest Southern Baptist congregation. The Jacobethan architectural style, characterized by striking semi-hexagonal, two-story bay windows, cast stone mullions, arched lintels over the front door, and overlapping gables, distinguishes this manor. A unique feature for its style is the red barrel-tiled roof, added by Faber, which contributes to its dramatic appearance. The home's current owners, Jean Bainbridge and Mike French, acquired the property in 2008, becoming only its third owners. They undertook a massive, comprehensive restoration project to modernize the house while preserving its historical integrity. This extensive renovation included the replacement of all plumbing, HVAC systems, ductwork, and gas lines, as well as updating all electrical wiring. The Reverend's original library was transformed into a master suite, and an elevator was installed for convenience. Mrs. Criswell’s former in-home radio studio was converted into Jean's office. Original features meticulously restored include the hardwood floors throughout the entire home, the plaster cove and trim in the stairway, the fireplace mantel and marble surround, and the stained and leaded glass windows. The massive front door, an original element, was also restored. All new surface finishes were carefully selected to mimic the aesthetic of the period in which the house was built. The iron gate at the entryway, installed by the Criswells, remains a significant historical detail. The 4,660-square-foot Jacobethan manor now boasts four living areas, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and two powder baths. Additionally, it includes a two-story carriage house featuring a full living room and half bath downstairs, with a master bedroom and full bath upstairs. Elizabeth Mast of Briggs Freeman Sotheby's highlights a unique aspect of this manor: it is the only home on Swiss Avenue with a true master bedroom and master bath on the main floor, a rare feature for properties of its age. The master closet is noted for its size, comparable to those found in new constructions today. The property also includes a two-car attached garage, which was not common when the house was built. Jean and Mike particularly cherish their master suite, describing it as a "perfect oasis" on the first floor, connected to the second living area. The house was featured on the 2013 Swiss Avenue Mother’s Day Home Tour, showcasing its successful blend of historical preservation and modern luxury. The property is currently available for sale at $1.795 million. #SwissAvenue #JacobethanArchitecture #HistoricHome #DallasRealEstate #HomeRestoration #LuxuryHome #WACriswell #ArchitecturalPreservation #SwissAvenue #JacobethanArchitecture #HistoricHome #DallasRealEstate #HomeRestoration #LuxuryHome #WACriswell #ArchitecturalPreservation
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