Discovering Fairmount's Heritage: How Old Homes Connect Community

A Home with Heart: The Journey of Jamey Ice

For Jamey Ice, a longtime resident of Fort Worth's Fairmount neighborhood, his home is a living testament to the history embedded in the walls of old houses. In 2012, Ice and his wife Melissa purchased a dilapidated structure built in 1919, veiled in neglect yet rich with potential. 'We loved it,' Ice describes passionately, recalling how he and Melissa took a chance on a property with boarded-up windows and a collapsed front porch. To them, it was not just a house, but a canvas ready for rebirth.

Unpacking the Soul of the Fairmount House

Ice's discovery of the house’s true essence began when he peeled away layers of neglect—exposing beautiful longleaf pine floors beneath years of cheap vinyl that marred its beauty. Each creak of the wood resonated deeply; he felt as if he uncovered the home’s hidden soul. Old homes, he notes, become more than mere buildings—they embody stories of families past and present, rooted in the community’s very fabric.

The Community Spirit: Fairmount’s Neighborhood Narrative

Part of the charm of Fairmount, which Ice passionately defends, lies in its vibrant community. The area has transformed over the decades from a neglected space to a hub of growth, creativity, and collaboration. Local businesses, like Brewed—the restaurant Ice co-owns—act as social anchors. 'I’ve traveled the world, but this is my 3-mile-radius bubble,' Ice asserts, showcasing his commitment to the local lifestyle. The walkability of the neighborhood fosters connections among neighbors, reminding Ice of a nostalgic warmth typical of small tight-knit communities.

A Surprising Connection with the Past

Just six months prior to our conversation, Ice received an unexpected call from Rabbi Anne Brener, a former resident of his home. Her family once flourished in that very space, adding yet another chapter to the house's ongoing narrative. This reconnection was not merely sentimental. As Brener embarked on writing a novel that included memories of growing up there, Ice became an unwitting character in a living history. Their meeting, marked by joyful exchanges and shared stories, bridged generations and exemplified how homes connect disparate threads of life.

Rediscovering Local Heritage: Fairmount’s Historic Homes Tour

The community pride that Ice embodies is also showcased through events such as the annual Fairmount Tour of Historic Homes, where residents spotlight their lovingly restored gems. This year’s event offers an opportunity for locals to delve into the architectural beauty and storied pasts of homes, fostering a collective appreciation for historic preservation. Highlighting homes like the Goldgraber Crouch House and the Parker-Wilson House, the tour invites both awe and inspiration, encouraging attendees to envision their own connections with these age-old structures.

Your Role in Preserving Community Character

In embracing the essence of Fairmount’s homes, community members like Ice spark conversations about the importance of preservation—reminding us that every house has a narrative worth sharing. Whether it’s participating in historic tours or engaging with neighbors in revitalization efforts, the call to action is clear: contribute to sustaining the character and culture of our neighborhoods.

As Ice beautifully stated, 'It’s always about so much more than just buildings.' His story serves as a reminder that our choices in real estate shape the future of our community while honoring its past. Together, as stewards of our neighborhoods, we can preserve the tales that make our community vibrant and unique. Let’s continue the conversation, celebrate local spirit, and perhaps even invest in the history of our homes.