Southampton Place is a residential subdivision in Houston, Texas near Rice University, the Museum District and the Texas Medical Center. The neighborhood was established in 1923 as an enclave of 626 home sites and has been an upscale, outstanding, single-family residential area for 98 years, primarily due to the deed restrictions which continue to be enforced today. Much of the neighborhood's charm is the result of an original system of shared alleys. Rather than a typical suburban landscape riddled with curb cuts and driveways, Southampton's system of alleys permits more expansive front yards, green space for trees, and more on-street parking for guests. For an interesting article on the history of Obedience Smith, the original surveyor of our neighborhood click here:
Southampton Civic Club The Southampton Civic Club (SHCC) was established May 24, 1929, to preserve and protect the deed restrictions of the Southampton Place Addition, and to promote the maintenance, beautification, and welfare of the neighborhood. In 1998, the Club became a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization. Through the years Southampton residents have worked together to update and renew these restrictions to ensure the beauty and integrity of the neighborhood. The civic club has been an active proponent for neighborhood preservation initiatives from protecting the beautiful oak trees from damage by Public Works crews, to planting over 1,300 street trees. The civic club has also been active in the development of Houston’s ordinances including Offstreet Parking, Residential Permit Parking, Cell Tower, and Chapter 42.
- For a list of all past and current Club Presidents, click here.
- For a history of the early years of the Club's existence, click here
Club Membership: The Civic Club relies on voluntary annual dues of $250 (Live Oak Supporter) to carry out this mission – a small price to pay for the protection of property values in a neighborhood adjacent to a thriving university and commercial interests. Membership in SHCC is open to all property owners. Additional contributor levels are Red Oak Patron ($175), and White Oak Super Neighbor ($100). A membership form is available here.
