It was previously reported that the iconic house used in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre was being sold to new owners. Fans were understandably nervous that the new owners might’ve had the house torn down. Fortunately, however, that’s not going to be the case. In fact, it’s been stated that the new owners hope to preserve the legacy of the classic horror movie location.
As revealed via Daily Trib, the house which was previously made into the Grand Central Cafe in Kingsland has found new ownership alongside the Antlers Inn. The new ownership began on November 3, with two couples from Austin having finalized the negotiations. As the site explains, “the new owners plan changes for both but will preserve and protect the history and integrity of the buildings.” Additionally, it looks like “a community space on the property is also in the works.” Both buildings are located near one another “at 1001 King Court and 1010 King Court, respectively.”
It’s been stated that the previous owners, Drew Gerencer and Rick Gregory, had to sell the Antlers Inn “for health reasons and retirement.” Meanwhile, the Grand Central Cafe had been leased with separate owners. Now the couples purchasing both of the buildings include Courtney and Mike Rhodes along with Simon Madera and his wife Hobie Sasser. They plan for renovations to start immediately, “with the first phase of upgrades completed by the summer of 2023. Both businesses will remain open throughout the process.” Mike Rhodes further stated the following:
“I love the community out here,” he began. “This is such a special property.”
Additionally, Simon Madera who will handle the management of the Kingsland restaurant and hotel, had this to say:
“I love the potential of the property and the opportunity to bring my experience here.”
They each emphasized that they want to be deeply involved with the upgrades and the way the businesses are handled in the future.
“We are not a development company coming in here to reshape the landscape or bring an absentee-owner mindset,” Madera added. “This is a hands-on approach.”
While some of the upgrades have yet to be revealed, it was mentioned that they have planed for “an elevated menu at Grand Central Cafe, upgrades to the inn, and a ‘town square’ on the property that would host concerts, Christmas celebrations, and market days.” Rhodes specifically stated that their “intention is to take a substantial amount of this property and basically turn it into a community space.” As they feel “Kingsland doesn’t really have that.”
Hopefully this means good things for the horror community and the legacy of the iconic house used in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for additional updates as we have them.