The Irving Heritage Society was founded in 1978 to maintain and preserve the Heritage House built in 1912. The Heritage House serves as a tour home for the community and is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. The Society has served the city on many major projects with leadership roles, financial support, volunteers, and various expertise. These projects include the development of Heritage Park, the Jackie Townsell Bear Creek Heritage Center, a written history of Irving by Dr. Joseph Rice, and the Irving Archives and Museum.
Strategic Directions the Heritage Society recently outlined for 2025-2028 aim to expand programming, increase & diversify membership, and streamline governance.
The Heritage House was built by C.P. Schulze, brother of the co-founder of Irving. Only one family lived in the home. It is designated as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. In the backyard is the exact reconstruction of Mary's Playhouse. The former chicken coop was converted into a playhouse for the young Mary Schulze in the 1920s. It was rebuilt, using many of the same boards, and rededicated in 2015. The playhouse is furnished with original toys and items from young Mary Schulze and her brother Charles for young visitors to see.
The Irving Heritage Society is a vibrant, intergenerational volunteer organization that:
ADVOCATES for historic preservation.
EDUCATES the community on its heritage.
PRESERVES and accumulates local history.
Funds for historical preservation & expanded programming are compelling needs. As the City of Irving grows, we seek to broaden our connection with new residents and businesses, as well as Irving Independent School District, charter, homeschool, and private school families.
Vision: A diverse community that values its past, celebrates its present, and embraces its future.
Membership in the Irving Heritage Society is open to any interested person with membership levels for individuals, families, seniors, and corporate sponsors.
View our current participation opportunities.
In-Person Event
Front Porch Jam Session
Irving Heritage House
September 19, 2025 - September 20, 2025
Organization name
Irving Heritage Society
Causes
Community Improvement, Arts & Humanities, Parks and Greenspaces
Operating Budget
Less than $100,000
Counties Served
Dallas
BIPOC Serving
Hispanic or Latinx, Black or African American, Native American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Other
BIPOC Leadership
Neither/None
Address
PO Box 171572