Austin’s Old Enfield Neighborhood: A Century of Elegance, History, and Community

Average age: 47 years

Population: 2,039

Area: 0.340 square miles

Median household income $128,503

INTRODUCTION Nestled in the heart of Austin lies the Old Enfield neighborhood, a testament to the city's rich history, architectural prowess, and vibrant community spirit. As it celebrates its centennial, let's delve deep into its past, present, and future.

HISTORY The roots of Old Enfield intertwine with Niles Graham, the visionary grandson of former Texas governor Elisha Pease. In the early 1900s, as Austin experienced residential growth, the Enfield Realty and Home Building Company pioneered some of the first "subdivisions" in what is now the Old West Austin Historic District. Originally the Pease Plantation, this area is home to some of Austin's oldest Colonial-style residences.

GEOGRAPHY & LANDSCAPE Old Enfield's boundaries stretch from Lamar Boulevard to MoPac and from Enfield Road to Windsor Road. The neighborhood's layout is a testament to the 'city beautiful movement', emphasizing harmony with nature. If one were to walk the perimeter of this entire neighborhood one would walk only 2.64 miles!

HOUSING & ARCHITECTURE From Italian Renaissance to Spanish Eclectic, Old Enfield offers a visual journey through various architectural eras. With 894 homes, the median sales price stands at a whopping $2,500,000, reflecting the area's upscale nature.

LOCAL BUSINESSES & SHOPPING Proximity to Austin's best shopping destinations like Whole Foods and Central Market ensures residents have their essentials covered.

RESTAURANTS From upscale dining experiences at Wink to the succulent steaks at Austin Land and Cattle Company, Old Enfield residents have a plethora of culinary choices. Coffee aficionados can head to Austin Java or Caffe Medici for their caffeine fix.

PARKS & RECREATION Pease District Park, with its greenbelt running on both sides of Shoal Creek, offers picnic areas, a splash pad, disc golf, sports courts, and walking trails. The Lions Municipal Golf Course, built in 1934, is another recreational gem.

COMMUNITY EVENTS & FESTIVALS Eeyore’s Birthday, celebrated every April in Pease Park, is a significant event, drawing visitors for music, costumes, and community spirit.

PUBLIC AMENITIES & TRANSPORTATION Old Enfield boasts excellent connectivity with the rest of Austin. MoPac is the preferred route for many residents, offering a relatively hassle-free commute.

SCHOOLS Austin ISD serves students in Old Enfield. Schools include Casis Elementary, O. Henry Middle, and Stephen F. Austin High School. Kirby Hall, a private school option, is just 2.5 miles away. The University of Texas's Austin campus is just 2 miles away, making it convenient for faculty, staff, and students.

STATISTICS

  • Average age: 47 years

  • Population: 2,039

  • Area: 0.340 square miles

  • Median household income $128,503

  • Number of Homes: 894

  • Median Sales Price: $2,500,000

ADJACENT NEIGHBORHOODS Old Enfield is bordered by Clarksville to the south, UT and The Drag to the east, and Windsor Road to the north.

HANDYMATT'S PERSPECTIVE Old Enfield is a living testament to Austin's rich history and vibrant community spirit. As it steps into its next century, it remains a beacon of Austin's commitment to preserving its roots while embracing the future.