Our South Austin Story

Travis Heights’ and Fairview Park’s distinctive eclecticism has evolved over 100 years. Today our neighborhood holds the most diverse collection of historic architectural styles remaining in Austin, ranging from late-1880s Victorians through 1970s Mid-Century Moderns, and everything in-between.

Laid out in harmony with our picturesque natural environment, the colorful old houses and decorated yards, winding streets, dramatic hillsides, wooded trails, and creeks all contribute to its unique character.

  • 905 Avondale house
  • The John House

On July 30, 2021, we were listed on The National Register of Historic Places, the official roster of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. In time, we hope to add many Local Historic Districts, as well. We currently have one: The Mary Street LHD. Both districts hold the distinction of being Austin’s first Local and National historic districts south of the river.

Read our official Nomination Narrative, which describes our neighborhood history and shows the boundaries and maps, as well as a list of contributing and non-contributing properties, and representative photos.

Under Federal Law, the listing of a property in the National Register places no restrictions on what a non-federal owner may do with their property up to and including demolition, unless the property is involved in a project that receives Federal assistance, usually funding or licensing/permitting. A Local Historic District requires that specific design standards be maintained.

Latest Posts

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

A photo of a band at the 1900 Juneteenth celebration at Eastwoods Park. See Article. CREDIT: GRACE MURRAY STEPHENSON, AUSTIN HISTORY CENTER, PICA 05481 Juneteenth 2020 brings even deeper meaning to the celebration of the end of slavery in the United States, given our greater awareness of the systemic racism that exists in our society…

Kick-off Event November 2018

Save the second weekend of November! We are planning a big event to celebrate our neighborhood’s history and raise donations towards our National Register Historic District effort. If you would like to help or make in-kind donations, please contact Melanie@HistoricTravisHeights.org.

Cocktail Party Series, Party No. 2 at The Academy July 27!

Last month’s cocktail party at the lovely Wilkins-Gullett House on Newning Avenue happened so spontaneously we neglected to post about it here, but we’re on top of this month’s party. Join us Friday, July 27, 5:30-7:30 at Hugh and Claudette Lowe’s lovely home, The Academy, also known as the Mather-Kirkland House, to visit with neighbors…

Meeting Wed. June 13, 7 p.m. at Twin Oaks Library

We’ll update you on the status of our boundaries and application progress, as well as strategize about fundraising. Please come!! Also, thank you to Elizabeth Brooks and Carrie Bills, our wonderful neighborhood realtors who donated $1,000 each to the effort. A big thank you to Robin Sanders, who also made a very generous donation. But…we…

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