By Michelle Marlow
In 1988, I made my way from my hometown of Shiner, Texas, to attend Texas Christian University. Because I now bleed purple, after completing my master’s degree in speech language pathology, I quickly settled back into “The Fort” and made it my home.
I was blessed to meet and marry Scott Marlow, an anesthesiologist specializing in cardiac surgery. I will never forget that summer day in 1998 when TCU professor Joe Lipscomb handed over the keys to our Colonial Parkway house. It was our first home, and I was pinching myself because I had dreamed of living in this neighborhood when I walked its streets as a student. I can easily remember standing on his front porch one summer day and hearing him say, “This house will bring you so much joy.” It has certainly done just that! We have raised our four boys, George, Thomas, Henry and William, in this home and have made friends like family in our neighborhood. Dreams do come true!
The charming neighborhood of Colonial Hills, with its tree-lined streets and friendly atmosphere, offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll, chatting with neighbors, or enjoying the local amenities, the community feels like a slice of paradise within the bustling city.
Colonial Hills is known for its picturesque landscapes and well-maintained homes. The architecture is diverse, with a mix of traditional and modern designs that gives the neighborhood its unique character. The streets are lined with mature elm trees that provide ample shade, making afternoon walks particularly pleasant. The yards are well-kept, with blooming flowers and lush greenery that add to the overall beauty of the area. One of the highlights of living in Colonial Hills is the sense of community. Neighbors here are more than just people who live next door; they are friends who look out for each other.
It’s common to see residents stopping for a chat while walking their dogs or gathering for an outdoor party during the summer. The community spirit is evident in the various events organized throughout the year, from TCU Tailgates before the big games to lemonade stands operated by neighborhood children during the PGA golf tournament. These events provide wonderful opportunities for residents to come together and build lasting relationships. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including our nationally renowned Fort Worth Zoo. Colonial Hills’ picnic areas and river trails are favorite spots for families.
On any given weekend, you’ll find me on a morning bike ride along the Trinity River, meeting friends at Press Cafe for a cup of coffee, taking a brisk walk around our beautiful TCU campus, or cheering on my four boys while they play 18 holes on Colonial Country Club’s beautiful golf course.
Education is another strong point of Colonial Hills. The neighborhood is served by some of the best schools in Fort Worth, making it an ideal place for families with children. The local elementary and high schools are known for their excellent academic programs and dedicated teachers. Parents can feel confident that their children are receiving a quality education in a supportive environment. As a speech language pathologist serving our children in our local schools, I am proud and honored to be a part of this community.
Another advantage of living in Colonial Hills is its proximity to downtown Fort Worth. The neighborhood offers easy access to the city’s cultural and entertainment attractions including museums, theaters and music venues. Residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – the peace and quiet of suburban life and the excitement of city living.
Safety is a priority in Colonial Hills, and the low crime rate is a testament to the efforts of both residents and local law enforcement. It is always fun to see our Mounted Patrol strolling down Colonial Parkway on a given day. The neighborhood is active and effective, with neighbors keeping an eye out for each other and reporting any suspicious activity. This sense of security contributes to the overall peace of mind that residents feel living here.
In conclusion, Colonial Hills is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a community where people come together to create a wonderful place to live. The beautiful surroundings, strong sense of community, excellent schools, convenient amenities, and safety make it an ideal place to call home. Whether you’re raising a family, enjoying retirement or anything in between, Colonial Hills offers a welcoming and vibrant environment. It’s a place where memories are made, friendships are formed and everyone feels right at home.
The Marlow family loves you, Colonial Hills!
Michelle Marlow is a speech pathologist and author of a series of children’s books that help kids learn how to say words and letters that can be hard to pronounce. She first fell in love with Colonial Hills while attending TCU and later decided to settle there with her family.
Colonial Hills
Total population: 1,422
Female: 41% | Male: 59%
Age
0-9: 9%
10-19: 23%
20-29: 6%
30-39: 13%
40-49: 10%
50-59: 10%
60-69: 19%
70-79: 8%
80 and older: 2%
Education
High school: 11%
Some college: 7%
Bachelor’s degree: 39%
Post-graduate: 43%
Race
White: 96% | Hispanic: 2% | Two or more: 2%
Click on the link to view the schools’ Texas Education Agency ratings:
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