and became a fraternity house for about seven years . In 1999 , Van Walker purchased the home with the vision to reclaim the home ’ s historical prominence . Under his care the home was renovated into an event center and a bed and breakfast . He purchased many of the original Parker family Eastlake antique furniture pieces including a rare Prisoner ’ s chest . Made by Huntsville State Prison inmates , the hefty cedar-lined hope chest is hand carved in deep relief and includes the initials “ FPT ” for Fanny Parker Tilson , one of Milton and Molly ’ s daughters .
A mere five blocks from downtown Bryan , the home and acreage are a rare combination of vintage grandeur and tranquil spaciousness . Working with Martin and Sims Development Ltd . during the summer months of 2016 , the home has been transformed once again into a luxury bed and breakfast with five overly large bedrooms , each with an updated private bath . The 12-foot ceilings and 9-foot doors and windows evoke a lofty , bright roominess . Lindsey Herod of Lindsey Herod Interiors in Houston brought freshness into the interior spaces , especially the dining room , with the grand crystal chandelier and the 8-by- 10-foot paned window with views to the south .
The grounds immediately surrounding the home are currently undergoing a face-lift with guidance from landscape architect Sally Godfrey and will include a bocce ball court , fire pit , outside dining , flower garden , and vegetable garden , all with an eye toward earth-kind practices . Overall , the vision is to create a feeling of nostalgia and relaxation with a fresh interpretation and much fun . The home and grounds will enchant all who come as guests to return again and again .
At its core , the Milton Parker Home has always been a place of gatherings for family , friends , and Aggies . The home is available for small events such as reunions , parties , or showers , or for overnight guests . Enjoy luxury accommodations in an authentic vintage home . i
Bob and Denise Barbier are the new homeowners of the historic Milton Parker Home in Downtown Bryan . Both are graduates of Texas A & M University who have returned to the area after living out of state for the last 25 years .
48 INSITE May / June 2017