The Historic Henshaw House

The orginal home at 7112 Newcastle was a one story home built in 1925 by Earl E. Edwards, President of Sealy Mattress Company. Frank W. Henshaw, Jr. bought that estate in 1929. In 1939, the sun porch and the second story were added. Frank and Betty Henshaw, the former Mayor and First Lady of Bellaire, lived in the house until it was purchased in the summer of 1983 by the Friends of Bellaire Parks.

When The Friends bought the house from the Henshaw's it was in deplorable condition and was ready to be torn down. Both the roof and floors had holes in them. The foundation had shifted, and the wiring and plumbing were faulty. The house did not meet the City fire code. But that did not disuade The Friends from taking on the monumental task of making the house fit for the community to use.

Renovations to the Henshaw House were completed by dedicated and determined volunteers. Dan Barnum donated his architectual services and helped to preserve the historic character of the house. Thanks to preservation minded community members and volunteers, the Henshaw House still looks much like it did in 1929. The exterior of the house is as it was originally except for the wheelchair ramp, fire escape stairs, and deck porches.

Since its purchase by The Friends in 1983, the Henshaw House has served as a community center and as the home of the Hana and Arthur Ginzbarg Nature Discovery Center.

Come by and take a self guided tour of the Historic Henshaw House. Ask a staff member for a flyer to take with you on your walk-through.