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Commission unanimously designates James Harvey and Pearl Caldwell House as local historic landmark
Summary
The Historic Landmarks Commission voted unanimously to grant local historic zoning for the James Harvey and Pearl Caldwell House at 400 West 37th Street, citing architectural integrity and the Caldwells’ significance to Austin’s blind community; the nomination will go to the planning commission and city council.
The Historic Landmarks Commission voted unanimously July 1 to grant historic zoning to the James Harvey and Pearl Caldwell House, a 1912 neoclassical bungalow at 400 West 37th Street, on the basis of architecture and historic association.
Staff said the one‑story house retains exceptional integrity of design, materials and workmanship and is associated with the Caldwell family, who were prominent in Austin’s blind community and music education. The staff report recommended a zoning change from SF‑3‑NCCD‑NP to SF‑3‑H‑NCCD‑NP.
Nick Wallace, the owner and occupant, told the commission that researching the Caldwells’ lives and preserving the home had shaped his approach to stewardship. “I gasped as I drove down the narrow street lined with adorable bungalows,” Wallace said, describing efforts to restore interior features and to work with a preservation architect.
Terry Myers, a former commission chair and architectural historian, supported the nomination and noted the case advances the commission’s equity‑based preservation goals by recognizing the history of people with disabilities in Austin.
Vice Chair Roxanne Evans moved to grant designation on architecture and historic association; Commissioner Harris seconded. Chair Heimsa called the question and the commission voted unanimously to approve the designation. Staff said the designation will now move to the planning commission and the city council for further action.
No formal conditions or amendments were attached to the motion; commissioners encouraged neighbors and applicants to pursue broader neighborhood recognition and additional nominations for other qualifying properties on 37th Street.
