Houston Family’s Brenham Vacation Property Grows with 4 Generations
The Cone family’s vacation property in Brenham, Texas, has been a retreat for the family for over 30 years, and it has grown and expanded to accommodate four generations of family members. What was once a small house on a 187-acre parcel of land has become a luxury getaway with lakes, fishing piers, guest houses, party barns, and plenty of space for the whole family to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
Finding the Perfect Getaway
Joann and Mike Cone were searching for a weekend retreat that would give their three sons a taste of country life without being too far from their home in Houston. Joann had a specific vision in mind, with hills, bluebonnet fields, and plenty of room for the family to grow. After searching through Washington County, she finally found the perfect property with a historic home from the late 1800s. This was the beginning of the Heritage Hill Farm, and the start of a long-term investment in their family’s future.
Expanding with the Family
Over time, the property has grown to include several small lakes, a guest house, a party barn, and a new seven-suite guest house with room for twenty-four people. The three Cone brothers were all involved in the planning and development process, with Mark, the CEO of Privia Health, taking the lead. With football weekends and other family gatherings, it became harder to fit everyone in one space, and this new addition gave everyone room to unwind and stay comfortably.
Keeping the Property in the Family
The new guest house, completed in 2017, was a joint investment by all three Cone brothers. They set up a family trust to ensure that everyone in the family will always have a right to use it when they need to get away from the city. The online calendar ensures that everyone gets a chance to use it, and it’s become a much-loved tradition for everyone in the family.
Related Facts
– Brenham is known for its bluebonnets, which bloom every spring and draw visitors from all over Texas.
– Stephen F. Austin’s original land grant included parts of present-day Washington County.
– The area is known for its German heritage and has several historic homes and farms.
Key Takeaways
– A vacation property can be a long-term investment in your family’s future.
– Planning and development should involve all family members, including the next generation.
– Setting up a family trust ensures that the property will stay in the family and be available for future generations.
Conclusion
The Cone family’s vacation property in Brenham, Texas, has been a beloved retreat for four generations. The property has grown and expanded to include everything the family needs to relax and enjoy each other’s company, from fishing and swimming to relaxing in luxury guest suites. By involving all family members in the planning process and setting up a family trust, they’ve ensured that the property will continue to be a part of their family for generations to come.
