It was a really special day — Liz spent the morning volunteering as a docent at the historic John Faires House, part of the incredible Chestnut Square Historic Village in McKinney, Texas. It was a beautiful mix of history, storytelling, and community, and I couldn’t be prouder watching her bring the past to life for visitors!
The John Faires House: A Step Back to 1854
The John Faires House is one of McKinney’s oldest homes, built in 1854 by John Faires, a blacksmith who came to Texas from Tennessee just three years earlier. The home is a Greek Revival-style gem, filled with handcrafted details like the beautifully chiseled front door that reflect Faires’ skill as a craftsman. What’s truly remarkable is that the Faires family lived in this house all the way until 1975 — that’s over 120 years of continuous family history under one roof!
Walking through the house feels like stepping back in time. From the antique parlor furniture and kerosene lamps to the spinning wheel and lace curtains, every corner tells a story. The home is filled with period-correct details, right down to the music stand by the window and the family portraits on the walls.
Liz’s Day as a Docent
Liz dressed in full period costume — a long patterned dress, apron, and brooch — and welcomed guests into the Faires House with warmth and enthusiasm. She shared stories about daily life in the 1800s, the craftsmanship of the home, and what McKinney was like when the Faires family first settled here. It was incredible to watch visitors, young and old, light up as they learned about life before electricity, plumbing, and modern conveniences.
About Chestnut Square Historic Village
Chestnut Square is one of McKinney’s hidden gems — a beautifully preserved collection of historic buildings right in the heart of town. The village includes not only the John Faires House, but also other restored homes, a chapel, general store, blacksmith shop, and even a replica of a one-room schoolhouse. Throughout the year, Chestnut Square hosts farmers markets, weddings, tours, festivals, and community events, making it both a historical site and a living, breathing part of McKinney’s culture.
Whether you’re a history buff, a local looking for a fun afternoon, or just someone curious about early Texas life, Chestnut Square is absolutely worth a visit.
Why We Keep Coming Back
There’s something incredibly grounding about stepping into a space where families lived, worked, and celebrated over a century ago. Liz’s passion for history and love for sharing it with others was on full display today — and it reminded me why these places matter. They connect us to the past, to each other, and to the stories that make up our communities.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ever in McKinney, make time to visit Chestnut Square — and if you’re lucky, Liz might just be your guide! Seeing her in action today, helping keep local history alive, was definitely a proud moment for me.
