Bivins Home
Amarillo, Potter County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Prominent area rancher Lee Bivins (1862-1929) built this elegant town home in 1905. The brick and stone structure features classical styling. In addition to his large cattle operation, Bivins pioneered much of the Panhandle's oil and gas development. A philanthropist and community leader, Bivins was serving as mayor of Amarillo at the time of his death. His widow Mary Elizabeth Gilbert Bivins (1862-1951) bequeathed the residence to the city of Amarillo. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Cattleman Lee Bivins built this classically styled brick-and-stone town house in 1905 at the height of his Panhandle ranching empire. Beyond his vast cattle interests, Bivins helped open the region's oil and gas fields and served as mayor of Amarillo until his death in 1929. His widow, Mary Elizabeth Gilbert Bivins, later gave the home to the city.
Why it matters
The house embodies the transformation of the Texas Panhandle from open range to an economy driven by cattle, oil, and civic ambition in the early twentieth century.
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Related people
- · Lee Bivins
- · Mary Elizabeth Gilbert Bivins
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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