According to the 1930 Census, the home at 1322 S. Montreal Ave. was owned by 45-year-old Alfred W. Sanders, a builder, and his wife, 38-year-old Ruth. The couple had been married 19 years, and had two children living at home: 18-year-old Alex and 13-year-old Maude. Alf W. Sanders’ name appears as the builder of most of Hampton Hills’ originals homes. In fact, at the time of the 1930 Census, he he had been developing the neighborhood for more than six years.
On Sept. 14, 1924, an advertisement appeared in The Dallas Morning News announcing the development of Hampton Hills. The new neighborhood would be accessible to the city of Dallas via the Oak Cliff street car line, and would have every “modern improvement,” including “permanently paved streets, sewerage, water, gas, lights, etc.” By November, an ad campaign was launched, aimed at the tradesmen and middle managers of local companies who were interested in moving to the area for its convenience and proximity to their employers. Billed as “Oak Cliff’s Ideal Home Place,” Hampton Hills boasted terraced lots, extra wide parkways and well-drained high ground. Sanders set up a sales office for his Hampton Hills Realty Company in a small Tudor-style building on Tilton (now Wilton) Street. It still stands today.
A Dallas Morning News item on Nov. 16 announced “a completely developed subdivision” on the new Hampton Place streetcar line. Hampton Hills Realty Company ads emphasized the neighborhood’s convenience, commanding view and unmatched value. The ad blitz culminated with the “tag sale” ad on Thanksgiving Day, which drew attention to the neighborhood’s proximity to streetcars and schools.
Sanders favored picturesque wood-sided and brick and stone cottages with a charming, storybook quality about them. Even today, his handiwork can be seen in many fine examples of stained glass, as well as unique brick and stone work. His interiors feature archways, hardwood flooring, cheerful bathrooms and galley kitchens with quaint breakfast rooms and built-in cabinetry sparkling with beveled mirrors and stained glass. Some fireplace mantels display multiple types of wood and are flanked by built-in bookcases, which were among his signature building techniques.
Today, the home is proudly owned by Ric Varden.
