Plans are underway to temporarily relocate the historic “Miss Belle’s House” about half a mile from its current location on the northeast corner of Plano Road and Lookout Drive to a site on Lookout Drive adjacent to the Fire Training and Emergency Operations Center.
The wooden, two-story house, also known as the Hill-Robberson House, has been at its current location for more than 40 years but the current property owner has requested that the house be moved in preparation for development of the surrounding land. Relocation plans have been approved by the Texas Historical Commission and the structure is expected to be transferred as early as next week depending on weather.
Built around 1887 at 206 Sherman St., Miss Belle’s House served as a private school (run by Virginia Bell “Miss Belle” Robberson) as well as a home to several families before it was donated to the City in 1979 and moved to its current site. It was designated a Texas historic landmark in 1982.
The Parks and Recreation Commission will consider permanent location recommendations over the next year, with THC approval needed before final approval is given by the City Council. Priority will be given to locations that are centrally located and have good visibility, among other criteria.
