The Romance of Nottingham Forest
By Tim Sojka
Nestled by Buffalo Bayou and Memorial, the homes of Nottingham Forrest have a wonderful advantage. Few neighborhoods have a more perfect location. Residents of this picturesque neighborhood can enjoy the trails of Hershey Park, walk a few blocks to enjoy the Memorial Athletic and Aquatic Center, stroll the beautiful neighborhood and enjoy the view of the majestic tree lined streets or fish along the bayou. Many residents of Nottingham Forest and surrounding areas also use the bayous as hiking and running trails. Resident Pam Ferworn states that her love affair with the neighborhood began on just such a run. "We had relocated from Canada and were living nearby. I found about Nottingham Forest by running along the bayous." Like many others Pam was drawn in not just by the majestic homes but by the sense of community
When traveling the streets of this serene oasis, a visitor may get the feeling that they are miles away from the hustle and bustle of Houston. However, the residents know some of the best shopping and highest rated dining establishments in the city are also just moments away.
The homes in this neighborhood seem to blend in with the piece and tranquility of the flora and fauna that surrounds them. The beautiful homes, built in the late ‘60's and early 70's are now surrounded by towering trees and mature landscaping. From regal Tudor's, to majestic colonials, to stately traditionals, each home has its own very distinct identity. Additionally many of the homes have been refurbished in the last few years. A lucky home shopper who comes upon one of these jewels will get the fantastic quality and craftsmanship of the past and all of the modern conveniences of today's newest homes.
One of the most charming aspects of the neighborhood is the large yards, The average lot size is over 9000 square feet, unusual by today's standards, but wonderful for the anyone who dreams of privacy and room to stretch out. Homes are valued in the tax rolls from the low $200,000's to almost a $1,000,000. The neighborhood values will continue to increase because of easy access to I-10, Memorial and the Beltway.
Many young families move to the neighborhood because of the reputation of the Spring Branch school district. Several neighbors spoke with pride about the diversity and opportunity offered to their children though the well organized PTA and SBISD School system. The Westchester Academy, a nearby charter school, specializes in languages and international business.
The neighborhood has had several local celebrities and business leaders among its residents, Bob McNair was a one time resident. However, the neighborhood takes the most pride in how often those who move away as children move back to start their families. Two of Mr. McNair's children moved back to the neighborhood as adults. Long time resident Ruth Elvig notes that two of her children, who grew up in the neighborhood, also moved back as adults.
Susan Ashcroft, who now owns a stately home at the end of a cul-de-sac, stated "She and her family stumbled on the neighborhood and fell more and more in love." She loved the neighborhood so much that when her family grew they moved from their first home in Nottingham Forest to another home only a few blocks away but still with the comforting confines of the "the Forest".
One neighbor stated that a few times throughout the years they have had reason to consider moving from Nottingham Forest; however their heart kept them right where they are. Ruth Elvig mentioned that a number of her friends who have moved away for one reason or another still lament about how much they miss Nottingham Forest.
Each person, who speaks of Nottingham Forest, speaks about the sense of community and caring. Others speak of how closely tied the neighbors are to each other. A good majority of these conversations begin or end with a mention of one of the best neighborhood clubs in West Houston.
A Club that brings a community together
The Nottingham Forest Club does feature impressive statistics. Tennis courts, a swimming pool, basketball courts, a club house and ten acres of beautifully maintained landscaping. However, the most intriguing thing about this club is that it has become the heart and soul of the neighborhood.
The neighborhood club is more than just a club house. Membership includes dozens of activities. Homeowners pay a separate fee to join the club. However, without exception each neighbor speaks of the value of membership. The kids go hiking and biking all around the club. There are wooded trails that many of the children use these trails to pretend they are on great jungle adventures.
The Junior Olympic size pool has hosted hundreds of parties throughout the year. Also, according to Ms. Ashcroft the club is the home base of the reigning Division One summer swim league champions. The club also hosts a summer camp. The camp is organized by well respected area teachers and the children of the community love attending.
Each neighbor interviewed stated that many of their lifelong friends were met at the club or though neighborhood activities organized by the club. Pam Ferworn noted that her family lives several hours away and that the residents of the neighborhood have become like family to her.
No matter where a person lives there is always a special charm to going home. The community of Nottingham Forest prides itself on making a home not just a physical structure but a welcoming community. As long as Ms. Elvig has lived in the community she says every time she comes home she thinks "I am so happy to be back in Forest."
A special thanks to the contributions of Susan Ashcroft, Pam Ferworn and Ruth Elvig.
For more information about the beautiful community of Nottingham Forest contact realtor Tim Sojka at 713-822-2152 or go to www.seetimsell.com to shop for a home online or to find out the value of your home. Tim Sojka, the See TIM Sell Team.
Comments(0)