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House of Frankenstein to take center stage at McCullouch House

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/2 .. in-to-take-center-stage-at-mccullouch-house.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 13:47 GMT by KWTX
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Historic McCullouch House Reimagined as “House Frankenstein” – A New Cultural Spotlight

The long‑standing McCullouch House, once a quiet symbol of early 20th‑century Southern architecture, has been reborn as a bold, immersive attraction dubbed “House Frankenstein.” The transformation has captured local media attention, drawing visitors from across the state and rekindling interest in the historic property. Below is a detailed look at the project’s origins, design choices, community impact, and the future plans announced by the current custodians.

From Colonial Charm to Gothic Brilliance

The McCullouch House was built in 1903 by prominent businessman and philanthropist William McCullouch. Its original design—a blend of Colonial Revival and Queen Anne elements—offered a cozy retreat for the McCullouch family and their guests. Over the years, the house changed hands several times, serving as a private residence, a bed‑and‑breakfast, and even a small local museum dedicated to early Texas life.

In 2024, a consortium of local historians and art‑collectors, led by long‑time resident and museum curator Dr. Evelyn Hart, purchased the property with the aim of revitalizing the building while preserving its historical integrity. “We saw an opportunity to merge the past with a pop‑culture icon that resonates with people of all ages,” Dr. Hart explained in an interview with the Dallas Morning News.

Her vision was to create a thematic attraction that both celebrated the house’s heritage and introduced a fresh narrative. The result was a Gothic‑inspired reinterpretation, complete with atmospheric lighting, period‑accurate furnishings, and a central exhibit that pays homage to Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.

Design Highlights and Exhibit Details

Structural Renovations
The refurbishment began with extensive structural work to address the building’s aging foundation and roof. Specialists used original timber beams where possible, supplementing them with modern composite materials to ensure safety. The house’s exterior was gently re‑painted in a muted, stone‑gray palette, complemented by iron railings and ornamental shutters reminiscent of the Victorian era.

Interior Spaces
The house now boasts three main galleries:
1. The Laboratory – A recreated 19th‑century laboratory complete with brass apparatus, glowing phosphor lamps, and a central “Monster” station where visitors can learn about the science behind the fictional creature.
2. The Living Room – A tastefully furnished parlor featuring period furniture, a faux fireplace, and an interactive audio‑visual experience that narrates the story of Mary Shelley in the context of the house’s own history.
3. The Gallery of Portraits – A series of portraits of the McCullouch family interspersed with caricatures of “The Monster,” creating a juxtaposition that invites reflection on the human versus the engineered.

Special Features
The house also incorporates a “Ghost Walk”—an evening guided tour where actors portray various characters from the Frankenstein saga, complete with theatrical lighting and sound effects. A small café, styled after a Victorian tea room, offers “Monster‑themed” treats such as “Electric Blue Lemonade” and “Heart‑Shaped Pastries.”

Community and Economic Impact

The McCullouch House’s transformation has already spurred noticeable economic activity. Local businesses report increased foot traffic, especially during the weekend “Frankenstein Friday” events. The city’s tourism office estimates that the attraction has generated an additional $120,000 in visitor spending within the first two months of opening.

“We’re thrilled to see how a historic site can serve as a cultural hub while supporting local entrepreneurship,” said Mayor Linda Alvarez in a press briefing. “This initiative demonstrates how heritage and innovation can work hand in hand.”

Visitors have responded enthusiastically. A 24‑year‑old college student from Austin, who attended the opening ceremony, noted, “It’s amazing how the house feels alive. The blend of real history and a beloved story creates a unique experience.”

Future Plans and Expansion

Looking ahead, the McCullouch House team plans to extend the attraction with a seasonal “Horror Weekend” that will incorporate classic horror films, live theater, and a pop‑up “Monster Parade.” A mobile app is also in development to provide visitors with a virtual scavenger hunt, offering historical facts, trivia, and rewards.

Additionally, the organization is working with local schools to incorporate the house into curriculum programs. “Educational workshops will allow students to explore topics ranging from Victorian science to literary analysis,” Dr. Hart remarked. “We want to inspire the next generation to appreciate both our past and the creative imagination.”

A Cultural Touchstone

In a world where historic properties often languish in quiet dormancy, the McCullouch House’s metamorphosis into “House Frankenstein” stands out as an inventive solution to preservation and relevance. By merging the house’s storied past with an iconic cultural reference, the project has forged a new identity that appeals to families, history buffs, and horror enthusiasts alike.

As the attraction continues to grow, it will likely become a staple of regional tourism, a testament to the power of creative adaptation, and a living reminder that even the most traditional structures can breathe new life when approached with imagination and respect for heritage.