Long before Blake Smith Lodge was built, the Smith family was part of a remarkable chapter in Mexia’s history. Beginning in 1912, William Blake Smith Sr. joined other local businessmen in the search for oil and gas beneath Limestone County—helping set the stage for the boom that would transform the town.
Years later, that story took physical form in Blake Smith Lodge, an architect-designed Texas retreat whose original plans and specifications still survive today. Nearly a century later, the lodge remains at the heart of Smith Ranch.
Original architectural plans dating to 1933 document the lodge at the heart of Smith Ranch. Massive timbers, natural materials and enduring craftsmanship give the home a character that would be difficult to recreate today.
Massive timbers, natural materials and substantial construction give the lodge its unmistakable character.
Nearly a century later, the original lodge remains remarkably intact—its history visible in the details.
Surrounding Blake Smith Lodge are approximately 200 acres of Texas countryside shaped by generations of family life. Mature oaks frame the approach to the home, while open acreage stretches toward stock tanks and land currently being leased for cattle grazing.
Today, the property offers something increasingly difficult to find: room to preserve what has endured while imagining what could come next.
Built on a scale rarely seen in homes of its era, the Great Room is defined by massive Louisiana cypress trunks, yellow pine logs and a soaring stone fireplace that has anchored generations of gatherings.
Nearly a century later, it remains what it was intended to be—the heart of the lodge.
LOUISIANA CYPRESS · YELLOW PINE · NATIVE STONE FIREPLACE
A welcoming formal dining space just beyond the Great Room, where family and guests gather for memorable meals, celebrations and holiday traditions.
A relaxed gathering space just off the kitchen, the den opens to an informal dining area and offers a comfortable counterpoint to the scale of the Great Room. Original log walls and warm wood details carry the character of the lodge into a space made for everyday living.
The main lodge features three bedrooms, each filled with natural light and views of the surrounding ranch. The distinctive Cowboy Room features a stone fireplace and warm log interiors, reflecting the lodge’s historic character.
Another bedroom is currently arranged with a daybed and adjoining sitting area, offering flexibility for use as a guest retreat, reading room or other personal space. Two full bathrooms serve the upstairs bedrooms.
Completely remodeled with custom cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and a spacious island, the kitchen combines modern convenience with the lodge’s historic character. The original Ben Franklin wood-burning fireplace remains a distinctive feature.
Offered fully equipped with dishes, cookware and kitchen essentials, this inviting space is ready for everything from everyday meals to entertaining family and friends.
Connecting the kitchen to the adjoining office and flexible living space, this enclosed breezeway feels like a room of its own. Exposed log beams, terracotta tile floors and walls of windows create a bright, relaxed transition between the two areas, while doors open directly to the brick patio and courtyard.
A spacious, light-filled office and flexible living area with direct access to the private patio. Exposed ceiling beams and generous windows give the room the relaxed character of the lodge, while a mini kitchen/bar and full bath expand its possibilities beyond a traditional office.
Additional accommodations upstairs include a private bedroom and full bath with shower, allowing the entire area to function as guest quarters, groom’s quarters, an extended-family retreat or a private work-and-living space.
Historic character carries from room to room, with the lodge offered fully furnished, including its collection of antiques, furnishings and Oriental rugs.
Nearly a century of history has shaped Smith Ranch. Its next chapter is waiting to be written. Offered fully furnished and accompanied by separate guest quarters, the property presents an uncommon canvas for a private retreat, family compound, hospitality concept, intimate gatherings—or simply a remarkable place to call home.
Some properties are purchased. Others are inherited from history.
Smith Ranch · Mexia, Texas