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Heritage Oak Cliff Grants
Kessler Neighbors United
Published: 19 September 2008
Influenced by both streetcar and automobile
This verdant enclave comprises the neighborhoods of Kessler Park Estates, Kessler Square, and Kessler Highlands. Kessler Square and Kessler Highlands feature charming brick, stone, and stucco cottages with fanciful chimneys and arched porches. These developments were platted from the wooded lands north and west of older established neighborhoods such as Oak Cliff Annex and Miller-Stemmons. They also continued the established streetcar grid of the surrounding areas.
In contrast, prominent city planner and landscape architect George Kessler designed the rugged land lying north of Colorado Boulevard to follow the topography. Kessler Park Estates, established in the 1920s, became one of the first neighborhoods designed for the automobile. Here one finds the imposing Tudor and Spanish Eclectic mansions for which Kessler Park is famous. Prominent families, such as those who founded the Skillern Drug Store and "Dixie Cup" Company, built magnificent Tudor estates on Colorado Boulevard.
Other period revival styles are well represented here. Decades later, prominent families were constructing 1950s ranch style homes, some quite large and unique. Newer rustic contemporary houses are often constructed into hillsides surrounded by lush woodland terrain. Regardless of architectural style or age, the neighborhood has always maintained its prestige.
One of the most beautiful historic neighborhoods in Dallas
Kessler Neighbors Unlimited was founded to maintain this high quality of life and the exceptional beauty of the area. The month of May sees an annual neighborhood picnic, and Christmas brings holiday lights on trees in the medians. Many streets boast lavish Christmas displays. With its proximity to Stevens Park Golf Course, Methodist Hospital, the Central Business District, and panoramic views of downtown Dallas, the Kessler area is arguably the most beautiful historic neighborhood in the City of Dallas.
Visit the Kessler Neighbors United Neighborhood Association website
Also see the George Kessler website to learn more about Kessler Park's designer and planner.