Cottonland Castle | Waco

Cottonland Castle is one of Waco's most iconic landmarks, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s architectural and historical past. The castle's striking design and fascinating history have made it a point of interest for both locals and visitors. Here's an in-depth look at the story and details of Cottonland Castle.

Architectural Features and History

Construction and Early Design:

The castle was originally built in 1890 by British-born stonemason John Tennant. Tennant started the structure using leftover materials from the Provident Building project in Waco. His original intention was to create a home that resembled a medieval castle, but financial difficulties left the house incomplete.

The incomplete house was purchased in 1913 by businessman Alfred Abeel, who hired architect Roy E. Lane to complete the structure. Lane redesigned the home into a castle-like residence, taking inspiration from a small German castle along the Rhine River. The result was a three-story building with a basement, a tower, and eight fireplaces, all constructed from limestone and white sandstone.

The interior of the castle was equally impressive, with imported materials such as Caen stone from France, Carrara marble from Italy, and Honduran mahogany woodwork. The design combined medieval and European influences, making it a one-of-a-kind structure in the region.

Historical Significance:

Cottonland Castle is not just an architectural wonder; it also has historical significance. The castle played a pivotal role in the development of the Castle Heights neighborhood in Waco. The area was marketed as a desirable location for constructing “the castle of one’s dreams.” The neighborhood would later become Waco’s first historic district recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.

In 1977, Cottonland Castle was designated a Texas Historical Landmark, further cementing its importance to the history of Waco and Texas.

Ownership and Renovations Over Time

Early Owners:

After Abeel’s ownership, the castle passed through several hands. In 1941, the home was purchased by Irene Pipkin, whose family owned the Pipkin Drugstores. After her death, it was inherited by her daughter, Pauline Pipkin Garrett, Waco’s first female pharmacist. The Garrett family lived in the castle for many years.

The home was later sold to the Austin Avenue Methodist Church in the 1960s. The church used it briefly for youth events before selling it in 1969 to Jack Schwan. Schwan undertook a major renovation, including obtaining a historical marker for the castle in 1977.

Following several ownership changes, the castle fell into disrepair. It became a subject of interest in the early 2000s as Waco locals and tourists were fascinated by its story and wanted to see it restored.

Chip and Joanna Gaines Renovation (2019-2023):

The biggest and most well-known renovation of Cottonland Castle happened in 2019, when Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of HGTV’s Fixer Upper, purchased the property. The Gaines family embarked on a year-long renovation project, completing it in early 2023.

The renovation was a delicate balancing act between preserving the castle's historic character and updating it for modern living. The Gaines team restored much of the original exterior, including repointing the stone and repairing the iconic diamond-paned windows. Inside, the castle’s beautiful woodwork and fireplaces were meticulously preserved.

In addition to restoring the historic features, the renovation included modernizing the infrastructure. This included installing new plumbing, wiring, and heating and cooling systems. Modern kitchens and bathrooms were added to ensure the castle met contemporary standards for comfort and functionality.

Interior Features and Design Elements

Cottonland Castle is known for its striking interior, which blends medieval and European influences with early 20th-century opulence. Some of the key interior features include:

Fireplaces: The castle is home to eight stunning fireplaces, many of which are made from rare materials, such as French Caen stone and pink granite.

Woodwork: The castle’s interior boasts exquisite wood paneling, including quartersawn oak and Honduran mahogany, which gives the rooms a rich, historic feel.

Imported Materials: The use of high-quality materials, like Carrara marble from Italy, adds to the castle’s lavish interior. The imported stone and woodwork showcase the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into building the castle.

The Tower: The castle features a tower, which not only adds to its distinctive silhouette but also provides a panoramic view of the surrounding neighborhood. This was likely one of the most ambitious parts of the design, adding a true "castle" feel to the building.

Public Access and Tours

Cottonland Castle is open to the public through guided tours, giving visitors the chance to step inside and explore its rich history and unique architectural features. These tours offer insights into the restoration process and the historical significance of the structure.

Tour Availability: As of 2025, tours of the Cottonland Castle are available to visitors. Tickets for the tours are sold online, and visitors should be prepared for a guided walking tour that includes walking up multiple staircases.

Guided Experience: Tour guides provide detailed explanations of the castle’s history, architectural details, and the renovation process undertaken by Chip and Joanna Gaines. The tours allow guests to explore the restored rooms, fireplaces, and other unique features of the home.

Location: The castle is located at 3300 Austin Avenue in Waco, Texas, within the Castle Heights neighborhood, which is a historically recognized area.

Recent News and Events

Cottonland Castle gained widespread attention after Chip and Joanna Gaines’ involvement in its restoration. As part of their Fixer Upper brand, the renovation was part of a larger effort to revitalize the historic district and promote preservation.

The castle’s renovation was featured in various media outlets, including on the Gaines' new series, "Fixer Upper: Welcome Home," highlighting the restoration process and the challenges involved in bringing a 100-year-old building into the 21st century while preserving its historical significance.

Visiting Cottonland Castle

For visitors, Cottonland Castle offers a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur of early 20th-century architecture and the detailed process of restoring a historic home. Whether you're interested in the architectural details, the renovation story, or just fascinated by historic homes, a visit to Cottonland Castle is a memorable experience.

Tours: Available for purchase online, guided tours provide in-depth insight into the castle’s past and present.

Events: The castle may also host special events or private gatherings, making it a unique venue for those interested in history and architecture.

Cottonland Castle stands as a monument to Waco's rich history and architectural heritage. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of past and present owners, it continues to be a beloved landmark and a symbol of the city's commitment to preserving its past while embracing the future.