Regional Museum Alliance: Kell House Museum
The Kell House Museum (KHM) is one of 15 museums that make up the Regional Museum Network (RMN), based out of Wichita Falls. The KHM is an important museum for Wichita Falls because the Kell family played a big part in the growth of Wichita Falls.
Frank Kell was born a native Texan who moved to the Wichita Falls area around 1909. Kell was a prominent businessman and political leader, having dealings and investments in grain, banking, real estate and the railroad.
The Kells built the house in 1909. After the last relative to live in the home died, the family sold the home to the Wichita County Heritage Society (WCHS), who renovated and turned the house into the KHM in 1981. According to Nadine McKown, site director of the KHM, the family wanted WCHS to convert the home to a museum. Revitalization of the 112 year old Kell House will begin soon.
McKown has been the site director for two years. Originally an employee of the WCHS, McKown transitioned to the site director after the previous curator moved on.
Sharing her passion for the Kell House, McKown said, “There is a lot of detail in the house, and the stories are interesting, but the house itself to me is fascinating, too. I don’t know if many eclectic architectural details fit the same period [like Kell House], which makes it interesting. You just grow to love it the longer you’re here and realize how important its history is to the community. So, I am invested in making sure it’s here and available to everybody that can hopefully come see us.”
The Kell House Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and is always looking for extra donations to help fund the many restoration projects needed at the KHM. The hours of operation are Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. KHM is located at 900 Bluff Street in Wichita Falls. To plan your trip or learn more about the KHM, please visit their Facebook page at @KellHouse or call 940-723-2712.