Editor’s note: This blog is part of a new video series by the City of Round Rock to highlight impactful locations in the City’s history.
The historic Woodbine Mansion is well known as a timeless setting for special events in the heart of Downtown Round Rock.
This iconic building, nestled among towering elm, pecan and magnolia trees, also has a special place in history as the home of one of Round Rock’s original Swedish immigrant families.
Andrew J. and Hedwig Nelson immigrated to Round Rock from Sweden in 1854 and hired architects to construct a Victorian-style mansion near the City’s thriving commercial district, which is known today as Downtown Round Rock. Construction on the historic home began in 1895 and the mansion was completed in 1900, featuring a steep roof with many gables and chimneys.
In 1931, the mansion was remodeled by a Dallas architect to reflect classical, Greek revival style. This style was something that had never been seen before in Round Rock, adding to its allure as the most well-known historic home in town. Three generations of Nelsons grew up in the home before it was sold to the Crier Goodrich family in 1960, when it was officially given the name “Woodbine.”
In March 2018, the Woodbine Mansion was purchased by the Levin family at which time it was restored and repurposed into a local events venue.
Some of the original, ornate details inside the mansion remain to be enjoyed by guests, including the home’s original chandeliers.
