GOLDEN LEGACY TOUR OF HOMES
The Golden Legacy Tour of Homes, hosted by the Heritage Association of San Marcos, will take place for one day only this year on Saturday, May 3. The tour features seven homes and one gorgeous garden, and together they will blend local history, historic storytelling, and live artistry in an unforgettable experience.
To spark your interest, read about these two beautifully restored homes that will be included on the tour, located on the iconic West Hopkins Street
A MUSICIAN’S MODERNIZED HOMESTEAD
The Craftsman-style home at 1017 West Hopkins Street is the artistic haven of Jon Curlee, who has transformed the 1920s-era 2,800-squarefoot house into a sleek and inviting space with the help of local builder Haute Homes. A complete remodel from the foundation up included updates to the electrical, plumbing, HVAC and roof.
Original details like wood floors, beadboard walls and ceilings, and vintage windows with weights remain. By removing several interior walls, an open-concept living room, dining area and chef’s kitchen was created, now illuminated by two show-stopping wooden chandeliers that set a modern-meets-historic tone.
Jon, a musician of over 30 years and a graduate of Southwest Texas State University, created a dedicated Music Room for digital recording and jamming on guitar, bass and drums. Out back, his fenced yard features a full performance stage and a dramatic filigree iron fire pit sphere crafted by a Fredericksburg artist.
During the tour, abstract and mixed-media artist Donna Schwandt will exhibit her work inside the home. A selection of antiques from the property will also be for sale on the day of the tour.
A LEGACY OF FAMILY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Just down the street at 1202 West Hopkins, the home of Pam and Dean Whitehair invites visitors into a thoughtfully updated 1924 treasure, rich with family history and handcrafted detail. The home now measures 2,450 square feet, including an expansive 400-square-foot front porch, perfect for storytelling and relaxing.
From original floors to the custom woodwork in the kitchen, bar and bathrooms — boasting 19 drawers in the kitchen and ten in the master bath — the Whitehairs’ home is filled with beauty and function. In nearly every room, visitors will spot heirlooms with meaning: a Secretary desk and rocker from Pam’s great-grandmother, a cupboard from her parents, a wardrobe built by her great-uncle and even an old Motorola radio that still works. A black-and-white photo of Dean’s father’s 1940s big band, The Elton Dale Orchestra, is a conversation starter in the hallway.
On the porch, visitors will be treated to live demonstrations by local yarn artist Barbra Riley, who will be doing live demonstrations on her spinning wheel.
JOIN THE TOUR & SUPPORT PRESERVATION
“These two homes on Hopkins Street are prime examples of how personal passion and artistry keep San Marcos’ historic structures alive,” HASM President Renee Graham said. “Having local artists in person with displays makes this year’s tour extra special.”
“From live music to live fiber art — these homes are full of surprises,” 2025 Home Tour Chair Shannon James added. “Visitors will be amazed by the creativity and craftsmanship on display.”
This year’s Golden Legacy Tour of Homes offers a rare opportunity to step inside seven of the city’s most treasured homes plus Crookwood Gardens. Proceeds from the tour support HASM’s mission to preserve the historic districts of San Marcos for future generations.
LOCAL ARTISTS FEATURED
As a special addition to this year’s Golden Legacy Tour of Homes, guests will have the unique opportunity to experience the creativity of four talented local artists featured at select homes along the tour. Rene Perez and Donna Schwandt, both acclaimed painters, will showcase their vibrant and expressive artwork; Barbra Riley, a traditional yarn spinner, will offer live demonstrations on her spinning wheel; and Tamia Jacques, a gifted potter, will display her beautifully crafted ceramics. These artists bring an added layer of beauty, culture and craftsmanship to the tour; don’t miss the chance to see their work in these inspiring historic settings.
The Home Tour begins at the Charles S. Cock House Museum in Veramendi Plaza (400 E. Hopkins Street). There will be a Bake Sale, 50th Anniversary display and “Historic San Marcos” books signed by author Rodney van Ouderkerke. Purchase tickets online at Heritage-SanMarcos.org.
Tickets are $25 in advance, and $30 day of the tour. Follow the Heritage Association of San Marcos on Facebook for more previews and photos of featured homes.
