x
Breaking News
More () »

Historic Landmark Commission approves Richard Overton's home for historic zoning

The World War II veteran built the home more than 70 years ago.

AUSTIN, Texas — Richard Overton's home is being considered for historic zoning.

In September, a unanimous vote by the City of Austin Historic Landmark Commission initiated the historic zoning process for the veteran's home. On Oct. 28, the commission voted 10-0 to approve Overton's home for historic zoning. 

The next step will be for the Austin City Council to vote. That should happen later this year.

Overton built the East Austin home more than 70 years ago when he got out of the Army. The veteran was even known to sit outside on his front porch during the day. The house is filled with so many stories but now sits quiet.

"Yes, this home tells a lot of stories," said Volma Overton, sitting on that front porch. "I just loved sitting here. I mean, I spent hours with him just listening to him talk."

He went to the historic landmark commission and requested the designation.

"His final request was he wanted his home to become a museum, so I'm asking if the historical commission would designate his home as historic," said Volma.

"Looking at the history of the entire neighborhood, what this house represents and what Richard Overton's life represents ... that is worth preservation and celebration at the same time," said Steve Sadowsky, the city's historical preservation officer.

He said in September that he would work with the commission and city council to help designate the home before the end of the year.

"This house is really significant ... The house was the centerpiece of his life," said Sadowsky. "That's really the goals of preservation – have a physical manifestation, a physical building, be something that inspires people to remember."

RELATED: A look inside the home of Richard Overton, the nation's oldest WWII veteran

It's a chance to save the history of East Austin and Overton's story forever.

"Hopefully we get all of this done and it's just a matter of time I think," said Volma.

KVUE took a tour of that very home towards the end of 2018 and found Overton filled the house with several memories of his family and mementos over the course of his life.

Overton passed away in December of 2018 at 112 years old. He was the nation's oldest World War II veteran.

Overton's East Austin home is located at 2011 Hamilton Ave. The road is also called Richard Overton Avenue.

HOUSE TOUR: See inside Richard Overton's home

PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: 

Report: Inmate allegedly confesses to murder profiled in 'Making A Murderer'

Woman commits suicide after realizing she was involved in Austin-based romance scam

Botham Jean's apartment door was defective, unlocked when Dallas officer walked in

Before You Leave, Check This Out