This remarkable estate is recognized as the first and oldest residence in Eastland, originally constructed in 1876 by C.U. Connellee, widely known as the “Father of Eastland.” The original home was built with lumber hauled by wagon from Dallas, and a second story was added in 1924, further enhancing its stature and prominence within the community.

Rich in Southern charm and historic significance, the home is distinguished by its grand columns and expansive balconied façade. Perched atop the historic Connellee Hill, the estate encompasses nearly an entire city block in the heart of Eastland, just steps from the courthouse and downtown square.
The property spans approximately 2.33 acres and is anchored by the impressive 6,000-square-foot main residence. Complementing the estate are three additional structures, including a three-bedroom guest cottage. The most recent major renovation occurred in 1972 when the renowned Judge Austin McCloud relocated to Eastland after being elected Chief Justice of the 11th Court of Appeals.

Eastland serves as the county seat and is home to the county’s only hospital, the 11th Court of Appeals, the historic movie theater dating back to the 1920s, and the famous “Old Rip” horned frog legend—one of Texas’ most fascinating and enduring stories.

Property History:

Eastland County was created in 1858 and officially organized in 1873. The town of Eastland was established shortly thereafter when C.U. Connellee and Jack Daugherty purchased 320 acres and relocated the county seat, laying out the public square in January 1875.

Known as the “Father of Eastland,” C.U. Connellee constructed the original portion of this home in 1876 using lumber transported by wagon from Dallas. In 1924, he added the second floor, and he remained in residence for 56 years until his death in 1930. The home was intended to serve as a welcoming gathering place for travelers and settlers journeying westward across Texas.

Following Connellee’s passing, the property changed hands several times and underwent renovations in 1956 and 1963. In 1972, Judge Austin McCloud moved to Eastland after being elected Chief Justice of the 11th Court of Appeals. He and his wife, Mary Anne, extensively renovated the residence, and it has remained in the McCloud family ever since.

Judge McCloud was widely respected for his legal acumen, integrity, and fairness, qualities that extended beyond the courtroom and into his home. Today, a museum located across from the courthouse bears its name and celebrates both the history of the appellate court and Judge McCloud’s lasting contributions to the region.

Location:

The property is located at 515 South Lamar Street, just a few blocks west of the Eastland County Courthouse and the historic downtown square.

Conveniently situated along Interstate 20, Eastland is less than 90 minutes west of Fort Worth and under one hour east of Abilene. The city is approximately 56 miles east of Abilene, 94 miles west of Fort Worth, and 120 miles west of Dallas, providing excellent accessibility while maintaining its small-town charm and rich heritage.

Land:

The property encompasses approximately 2.33 acres atop historic Connellee Hill and occupies the majority of the city block bounded by South Lamar Street, West Valley Street, West Hill Street, and South Mulberry Street.

The primary homesite totals approximately 1.83 acres and features roughly 400 feet of frontage along South Lamar Street, approximately 200 feet along West Hill Street, and nearly 400 feet of frontage along South Mulberry Street.

An additional one-half-acre tract located directly across South Lamar Street was acquired by the McCloud family to preserve the view corridor from the front of the residence. This parcel measures approximately 100 feet by 200 feet and also fronts South Seaman Street.

Access to the main residence is provided via a circular driveway from South Lamar Street, while additional access to the side of the home and carport is available from both West Hill and South Mulberry Streets.
South Lamar, West Hill, and South Mulberry are all paved, two-lane residential streets.

The property features numerous mature shade trees, expansive lawn areas, and gently sloping topography descending toward South Lamar Street. All municipal utilities are readily available and connected to the property
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Improvements:

Main Residence:

Approaching the home via the long circular driveway is an experience in itself. Framed by mature trees and anchored by stately columns and a grand balcony, the residence immediately evokes the elegance and hospitality of a bygone era.

Ascending the brick staircase and entering through the front door into the spacious foyer, visitors are greeted by a sense of warmth and tranquility. In keeping with the vision of both the Connellee and McCloud families, the home was designed to be a welcoming place where family and friends naturally gather.
The two-story, wood-frame residence offers approximately 6,000 square feet of living space, featuring five bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and one half bath. High ceilings, abundant windows, and multiple living areas create an open and inviting atmosphere throughout.

The first floor includes a private guest suite with sitting room and bath, a large formal living room, dining room, study, breakfast room, kitchen, mudroom, and a spacious 16′ x 32′ den anchored by one of the home’s two wood-burning fireplaces. A sunroom overlooks the grounds, while a storm shelter located beneath the sunroom is accessed via covered concrete stairs.

Original hardwood flooring extends throughout the first level.

The second floor features four generously sized bedrooms arranged around a central hallway that functions as a gallery space. Flooring on the upper level consists of carpet over hardwood floors.

Outdoor living spaces include a large brick patio adjoining the kitchen and sunroom, along with additional brick patios located at the front and side of the residence.

Adjacent to the sunroom patio is a fenced courtyard area containing both a storage building and workshop, each constructed with wood-frame exteriors, composition roofs, and concrete floors.

Guest Cottage:

Located adjacent to the main residence at 505 South Lamar Street is a separate three-bedroom, one-bath guest cottage. The cottage includes a spacious living area and kitchen and presents an excellent opportunity for renovation and customization such as guest accommodations, office space, or additional residential use.

Development Potential:

For nearly 150 years, this historic estate has served as the residence of some of Eastland’s most prominent citizens, including the McCloud family for the past 54 years. While its highest and best use may continue as a distinguished private residence, the property also offers potential for a boutique bed-and-breakfast, event venue, corporate retreat, or other hospitality-oriented uses.

With additional vacant acreage included within the offering, there is flexibility for future development, expansion, or potential disposition of surplus land, creating a unique investment opportunity within one of North Texas’ most historically significant communities.