MEXIA, Texas — One of the most endangered historic locations in America is right here in Central Texas, according to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The Trust unveiled its 2024 list of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places on May 1, and the Cindy Walker House in Mexia, Texas was one of the historic locations highlighted by the list.
Trailblazing country songwriter Cindy Walker lived and worked in the home for over 50 years, according to the Trust, writing Top 10 hits across five decades, with her work having been performed by artists like Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, Bette Midler and more. Walker has been recognized by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville as "one of the finest composers in country music history". She was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1997.
Walker's home, however, has fallen into disrepair since her death in 2006, said the Trust, suffering from roof leaks, foundation issues and interior damage. Though Walker was largely overlooked during her lifetime, said the Trust, as she is now getting the recognition she deserves, many are trying to save her property.
"You can really feel her and (my great grandmother) Oree in every room that you go into," said Walker's great nephew Kevin Knebel. "There are so many personal touches."
"You feel their personal touches in there because this is a place where they lived for half a century," said Chris Morris of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "They are still so present there but the condition of the house is just heartbreaking."
The Cindy Walker Foundation, started by family members of Walker and 6 News anchor and Mexia native Lindsay Liepman, is working to restore the home as a museum, community arts space and songwriter's retreat and residency program, said the Trust.
"It just shows how much she meant to this community and it shows how much the people of Mexia still love her and want this property to come back," said Jerry Walker Lawrence, Cindy Walker's niece.
Beginning in 1988, the Trust's list of Most Endangered Historic Places is meant to spotlight significant sites in American history that are at risk of destruction or irreparable damage. The Trust says the initiative has helped spur support behind more than 350 sites.
“This year’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places list shows how our collective idea of American history has expanded in recent years, along with our ideas about which places are worth saving,” said Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The complete list of locations on the list, as well as more information on each one, can be found at this link.
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