What’s the Waco Castle
The Waco Castle is an icon in Waco, Texas, boasting its glory on Austin Avenue. The corner lot sat in despair for years, with the castle looking rough. One would see a vacant lot with carbon black stains taking over the stone. I found some old photos of the interior, which showed graffiti from when people would manage to sneak in.
Wacoans call the castle the “Waco Castle” but used to call it the Cottonland Castle in the past. The Cottonland Castle gets its name from its historical connection to the cotton industry (because of the region where it is located). Ripley Hanrick was a cotton broker and the original owner at the time. He acquired the unfinished house from John Tennant in 1906.
Tennant, a local stone contractor, started building the home in 1890. Due to financial difficulties, he sold the property. Given Hanrick’s association with the cotton business and the prevalent cotton industry in Waco, Texas, the castle became known as the “Cottonland Castle.” The name reflects the property’s historical context and the significant economic activities in the region during its early years.
Who Bought the Castle in Waco?
In 2019, Chip and Joanna Gaines purchased the Waco Castle. This couple is known for their active presence in the Waco community and for restoring homes in the area (AKA fixer-uppers). In typical fashion, they remodeled the castle, which is how it stands today as a place where visitors can take tours and taste a part of history. They even aired a segment on the Magnolia Network, walking people through the remodel of this historical marker.
How Much Did the Castle in Waco Sell For?
I could not find the exact sale price of the Waco Castle purchased by Chip and Joanna Gaines, but some sources say as much as $400,000, which could be a fair price given its state and condition at the time. This historic home now sits in glory, freshly remodeled.
Is the Waco Castle for Sale Now?
The castle went on the market on July 20, 2023, as an auction by Concierge Auctions with a $100,000 bidder deposit. Magnolia Realty caused quite the buzz when listing this on its Facebook page before its go-live date. The castle was listed at $2.9 million before the auction went live. A buyer did come forward, but then an agreement between Magnolia and the buyer determined not to complete the sale and purchase.
What’s Next for the Castle of Waco, Texas?
If you drive by today, you will see that the castle has a huge lot on Franklin Avenue, which is the backside of the court. This lot is also now part of the castle’s property. This lot is used for parking for the tours they now have continued offering. The Waco Tribune-Herald reported that Magnolia has been addressing the neighbors’ concerns.
Feel free to drive by 3300 Austin Ave. to take a look at the Waco Castle.
