Corpus Christi (KIII news) — Everyone knows the Ada Wilson home as the castle house on ocean drive, the home was built in 1937 and a tower was added in the 70's
Neighbors hoped the home would stay around forever and were angered when they received news that it wouldn't be the case.
Janice Clark has lived just yards away from Ocean Drive for ten years.
"Everyones pretty shocked that these two historic homes that you think would have been left alone and you know represent the character and the face of Corpus Christi," Clark said.
Paul Althide, secretary of the Ed Rachal Foundation, said the non-profit bought six acres of land including both the Ada Wilson home and the house formerly owned by HEB's founder Howard E. Butt next door.
According to Althide all but the HEB home will be used to redevelop into 20 dwellings possibly town or patio homes.
"Why would you purchase two historic homes to destroy them," Clark said.
The foundation is a direct request from the rancher and cattleman Ed Rachal's will that his estate is used exclusively for the benefit of charitable, scientific, literary or educational purposes.
"And if you look at the foundation's mission it has nothing to do with redevelopment. it has to do with scientific education purposes," Clark said.
Althide said its an investment that will go towards the foundation and is still in its early stages.
The development details are still being discussed.
I'm not sure that he would be happy with his resources were being used for instead of the betterment of the community for its destruction," Clark said.
Althide assures the public that the development will have a classical architectural that is every bit of iconic as the Ada Wilson home.
"I am going to continue to talk with my neighbors an see if there's anything we can do to stop this from happening," Clark said.
The foundation plans on re-purpose the HEB house as an event space for qualified organizations to serve appropriate non-profits.
Stay connected with 3News for the latest news, sports, and weather. Download the KIII-TV 3News app now.
Have an idea for a story? Send news tips to news@kiiitv.com, and visit us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!