The most dominant element on the skyline of the small central Texas town of Round Rock is Woodbine mansion. Located a few blocks east of the main business district, the three-story structure was completed in 1900 after approximately five years of construction. Since that time it has undergone several major remodeling and has been in continuous use as a residence. This unusual house was built for Andrew & Hedwig Nelson. The Nelsons were Swedish immigrants who became prosperous farmers, the owners of a cotton gin and other businesses. Their large house originally sported a large round tower which was replaced by the Ionic columns facing Main Street today. Three generations of Nelsons lived in the house until 1960, when Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Crier Goodrich purchased the house. Mrs. Goodrich named the house “Woodbine” for the Virginia creeper that covers the walls of the house.
The Historic Woodbine Mansion in Round Rock
A Foundation Rooted in Texas History
Texas holds a rich history filled with tradition. Therefore, Round Rock’s story would feel incomplete without the famous Woodbine Mansion.
Early Beginnings and Construction
Andrew J. and Hedwig Nelson settled in Round Rock after arriving from Sweden. Soon after, they hired the Page Brothers of Austin to design a Victorian-style mansion.
Many materials came from renovated Austin homes. Additionally, later updates used columns and doors from a home near the University of Texas.
Construction began in 1895 and finished in 1900. During this period, Round Rock grew into a busy trade center. The new railroad and local factories helped the town thrive.
Architectural Evolution Through the Years
In 1931, a Dallas architect remodeled the mansion. As a result, the home gained a Greek Revival style with a bold, symmetrical front. This new design was unique in Round Rock and increased the mansion’s charm.
Nearly 30 years later, Eugene N. Crier Goodrich and his wife purchased the property. They renamed the home Woodbine. Furthermore, the mansion included a widow’s walk with wide views across Round Rock.
Original Interior Features That Still Shine
Many original interior features remain today. For example, all mirrors in the mansion are original décor. The 10-foot pier glass mirror in the ballroom came from a New Orleans estate sale. Additionally, the gold leaf mirrors in the drawing room were imported from Europe.
All original chandeliers also remain. Many reflect detailed period-style design and craftsmanship.
Recognition as a Texas Historic Landmark
In 1973, the Woodbine Mansion became a Texas Historic Landmark. Since then, it has remained a major feature of Round Rock’s skyline. The mansion sits on its own city block surrounded by Elm, Pecan, and Magnolia trees.
A Legacy of Only Three Families
Since 1900, only three families have owned the estate. Three generations of the Nelson family lived there until 1960. After that, the Goodrich family purchased the mansion and continued its legacy.
A New Chapter With the Levin Family
In 2018, the Levin family purchased the Woodbine Mansion. Robert and Olga Levin collaborate with their daughter, Becky Levin Navarro, an experienced event planner.
Robert owns a remodeling company restoring the mansion to its 1931 design. Meanwhile, Becky continues her leadership in event planning. She founded Pearl Events Austin in 2010. In 2013, she earned Coordinator of the Year from the Nuptial Essentials Association of Wedding Professionals.
A Venue for Timeless Events
Led by Becky’s vision, the family now welcomes weddings and events to the estate. From chandeliers to place settings, every detail supports unforgettable celebrations.
Today, the Woodbine Mansion serves as a premier venue for weddings, social events, and corporate gatherings.
