In 1953, a family from Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church purchased 100 acres of farmland in Richardson, TX, featuring a branch of Rowlett Creek fed by a spring from an adjacent hill. They named the property “Springhill” and built a rustic cedar lodge for weekend getaways, equipped with two bathrooms, a large bedroom with bunk beds, a loft, a kitchen, and a large fireplace as the focal point of the 30′ by 50′ great room. The lodge became a cherished spot for quiet retreats and lively gatherings with family and friends over the years.
In 1975, after many years of private use, the family gifted the Lodge and 17 acres to Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, with the wish that the property be used as a Christian retreat center by PHPC and other churches, civic groups, and non-profits.They also donated an additional 32 acres, part of which was to be sold to establish a maintenance trust for proper upkeep. Wilcox Endowment, Inc. is overseen by a 13-member Board of Trustees with staggered 3-year terms. Trustees are elected by the Board and approved by the Session of PHPC.
In 1985, the family built and donated a chapel dedicated to their only son who died in 1981, along with the 3 acres it sits on. The chapel seats approximately 60 people, with double doors opening to allow more seating outside. A caretaker’s apartment was also added to the Lodge. The family then donated an additional 30 acres to serve as a buffer from housing developments, bringing the total acreage to approximately 50 acres, hoping Springhill would remain “an island unto itself.”
“An island unto itself”
– The Wilcox Endowment, Inc
