HERITAGE ASSOCIATION OF SAN MARCOS HOME TOUR
One of San Marcos’ most distinguished historic residences, the Moore Manor will be among the featured stops on the Heritage Association of San Marcos’ Annual Home Tour, “Heritage & Home: Americana Experience,” scheduled for Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Built in 1928 by John M. and Elizabeth Louise Moore, the stately two-story home at 545 West Hopkins Street stands as one of the finest examples of Renaissance Revival architecture in the historic district. Constructed with yellow brick veneer and accented with white stone trim, the home was widely admired from the moment it was completed.
The San Marcos Daily Record reported in 1928: “Mr. and Mrs. John M. Moore moved into their beautiful new home on West Hopkins Street, one of the finest residences in the city. It is a brick veneer with white stone trimmings, two stories, and modern in design and appointment, and stands to fine effect on the large, splendidly located lot, considered among the choicest homesites in the city.”
The home was thoughtfully designed for both elegance and practicality. The first floor originally included a kitchen, butler’s pantry, dining room, living room, and study — both the living room and study featuring fireplaces. The second floor contained four bedrooms and one bathroom, including a master bedroom with French doors opening to a classic sleeping porch, a popular architectural feature of the era.
Unusual for a home built on the region’s limestone foundation, the residence also includes a large basement — an uncommon feature in San Marcos homes.
The Moore family’s only child, Bess Moore, married John Wilbur Hopson in the home in 1938. The couple later raised six children in the stately residence, and in 1968 expanded the home to accommodate their growing family. The addition included a spacious family room with fireplace, an additional bedroom and bath, and a large laundry room. The original blueprints for the house remain preserved today and are prominently displayed in the great room.
The Moore-Hopson House remained in the hands of the same family for nearly 90 years before being purchased in 2018 by current owner Barrie Breed, who has undertaken careful efforts to preserve and document the home’s rich history. During her research, Breed discovered an interesting connection to San Marcos commerce: John M. Moore was also responsible for building and operating Moore Grocery, once located at 101 South Edward Gary Street — the same location that later housed Breed & Co. of San Marcos.
Today, Moore Manor continues its tradition as a place of gathering and hospitality. The home is now available for shortterm rental, reflecting Breed’s vision that the historic residence remains a welcoming place for families and friends visiting San Marcos.
Moore Manor will be one of six historic stops featured on the “Heritage & Home: Americana Experience” tour, which celebrates America’s 250th birthday while highlighting the architectural heritage of San Marcos.
Tickets are $30 in advance at HeritageSan-Marcos.org ($35 the day of the tour). Proceeds support the Heritage Association of San Marcos and its mission to preserve the historic structures and districts that make San Marcos one of Texas’ most treasured cities.
Founded in 1975, the Heritage Association of San Marcos (HASM) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving historic buildings, celebrating local culture, and perpetuating the traditions that enrich the community life of San Marcos. Membership is open to anyone interested in supporting historic preservation and the ongoing stewardship of the city’s heritage.
