Historic Tyler on Tour, 2005
The Nichols Home
Marissa and James Nichols
204 Lindsey Lane
In 1894, Mr. and Mrs. Robertson conveyed 14 acres of their cotton farm to their son, Roy G. Robertson. This was but a portion of the Robertson Park Addition to the City of Tyler. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Robertson secured a $1000 loan to build what is now the Nichols's farmhouse.
The original farmhouse, known as a "box house" was constructed out of solid sheets of pine. The solidity of the "box house" pine wood construction eliminated the need for insulation (both then and now). The recessed front door frame and window frames throughout the original part of the house are typical to the old, solid, "box houses".
The home created by Mr. Robertson ends at the Nichols's den, though some of the "newer areas" are from the 1920's. The original portion of the house was an entry hall, parlor, front bedroom and kitchen. Though it may have seemed small by contemporary standards, the numerous windows and the nearly eleven foot ceilings create a much larger feel. Many of the wood floors are original as is the front parlor fireplace.
When the previous owners, the Shearers, were preparing the home for further additions, they found an old brick water well which exists today underneath the house. The Shearers, who bought the home in 1985, overhauled the old home, but maintained as much of the late 19th and early 20th century areas as possible. Their improvements include a master suite, a porch on the east side, gingerbread trim on the front and side of the home and a modern kitchen. The Shearers also added a staircase in the den for access to the attic room. The attic-room, previously accessed by hidden ladder in the closet, was the children's sleeping space.
In 1999, Mr. and Mrs. Nichols were on a house hunting tour of Tyler in anticipation of their relocation from Amarillo. Without realizing the significance of their home or its location in the Azalea district, the Nichols purchased the home. They have made mostly cosmetic and decorative changes to the old home. The most dramatic revision, however, is the wraparound porch on the north and east side of the home. Other large projects are the creation of a carport and patio area.
As the oldest house on the tour, the Nichols's farmhouse is a special treasure on the 2005 Azalea trail. We are fortunate to be able to share with you this lovely, unique home.
