Grapevine reclaims piece of history as 114-year-old farmhouse moved for restoration

The City of Grapevine takes pride in its history. Now, to preserve some of that history, the city has relocated the Roberson Farmhouse.

The move took place March 26 with the historic two-story house being separated into two pieces and crossing over the dam of Lake Grapevine from its former home in Flower Mound. The house, built in 1905 by settler R.J. Roberson and his wife, Manie, who came to the area in 1890, overlooked Lake Grapevine.

However, its recent relocation was necessary for preservation and to make way for Lakeside Village, a $1 billion mixed-use development.

“History is a vital part of the City of Grapevine’s brand, so it’s imperative that we preserve our history by saving homes like the Roberson Farmhouse,” said Kimberly Foster, Grapevine Director of Marketing and Brand Management.

The house’s new location is 608 S. Dooley St. in Grapevine. It is near another historic home, the Thomas McPherson Farmhouse, built in 1885 and recently relocated itself in 2017.

The Roberson Farmhouse was originally part of Grapevine for more than eight decades. Then, it was taken into Flower Mound as part of an annexation in 1987.

Peter P. Stewart bought the house and the 14 acres on which it sat in 1985. His family and Sunset Legacy, LP, donated the Roberson Farmhouse to the City of Grapevine. Now, following the move, the house is being restored due to its significance and importance to the city’s history.

Funding for the move and restoration is being provided through the Grapevine Township Revitalization Program.

Grapevine Mayor William D. Tate is among many locals who have had a connection to the Roberson Farmhouse. City officials say he spent much time there as a child while being a good friend of Scott Tarwater, a great grandson of the Robersons who grew up to be a local developer.

“The Roberson house is a wonderful example of a prairie farmhouse that was so much a part of our agriculture community. It is one of the last opportunities we will ever have to replace so many of those houses that were lost to development over the years,” Tate said. “Its architecture and those that lived there are a part of the rich history of Grapevine. It will be a proud addition to our historic residential district to be enjoyed by a new family for many years to come.”

City officials said the Farmhouse and lot will be made available for sale by sealed bid (residential only) to a new Grapevine Township owner.

“The Roberson family played a significant role in Grapevine’s formative years, and we are especially pleased that the Farmhouse now resides within Grapevine’s Historic Township,” said David Klempin, Historic Preservation Officer Manager.