The Darst-Yoder home is a 14-room classical revival structure built in 1908.
By Joan Frances –
Look around. History is everywhere. Nature displays its age through ominous trees, moss hanging to the ground. Rivers expose years of wear through polished rocks marking the edge of the water. Rolling hills reveal jagged peaks aged with discoloration. Early settlers came on foot, horse and covered wagon to establish roots in the new world. Some came to farm, others to ranch with the intention of building a foundation for a family. Homes were constructed to last a lifetime, detailed and meticulous. It was not uncommon for a designer to work for years on a structure that was secure inside and out using the strongest wood available. One hundred years of weather and time conceals the hidden beauty of these dilapidated homes until they are renovated. One fascinating story of the original owners and the path to revitalization is the Darst-Yoder home.
The Darst family, known as one of the oldest families in the state, began settling in the area as early as 1827 and were members of Stephen F. Austin’s Colony. Abraham Darst married Tabitha Callaway, the granddaughter of Daniel Boone. They lived in Missouri and had five children. When Tabitha died, Abraham married Jemima Brownfield, moved with children from both marriages to Texas and settled on the Brazos River.
Emory Holman Darst, the third son of Tabitha and Abraham, fought at the Battle of Velasco on June 26, 1832 and at the final battle at San Jacinto in 1836. He was issued 320 acres of land for serving in the army. Emory married Mary Ann Moore in 1841, and they had nine children. Robert Hodges Darst was the youngest son, born June 7, 1859. As a boy, he attended a private school in Fort Bend County and the University at Georgetown until his fathers’ death in 1880. Robert returned to Richmond to help manage his father’s estate. In 1886, he married Katie Brush, and they had three children. During this time, Robert established a reputation as one of the most successful farmers and ranchers in the Richmond area. He was immersed in the community as a director of the Richmond Cotton, Development and Electric Light and Water Company, as well as the Rosenberg Gin Company. On September 2, 1894, Katie passed away. He married Pearl R. Ransom, purchased land from T.E. Pearson and built a 14 room cypress and pine mansion for his family, which still stands today.
On the corner of Ninth and Jackson Street in Richmond, this classic colonial Greek revival style home built in 1908 has 11 foot ceilings and four fireplaces. The 18 x 30 foot formal walk-in foyer and original brass chandelier invites visitors to view the fine details meticulously preserved through the years. When the home was built, Mrs. Darst asked for the bedrooms to have closets, unusual for the time, but a convenient asset to the house. In the early 1920s, new school teachers used the home as a dormitory. Interior walls were built but later removed to be consistent to the original floor plan. Robert and Pearl Darst built a brick wall behind the stove in the kitchen as protection against fires. Beveled and stained glass is prevalent throughout the home with an open, clear view of the outside patio, yard and street.
Mrs. Darst lived in this mansion until she passed away at age 94. In 1971, the home was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Yoder who continued to maintain its authentic style and décor. Today, it stands in regal perfection thanks to the attention to detail by the newest owners, Faye and Paul Johnston. History is preserved in many facets of our world; awareness allows us to enjoy it.