First Colony, a beacon of Texas real estate history located in Fort Bend County, commemorates its remarkable 40-year journey as a pioneering master-planned community. Established on the expansive Texas Gulf Coast, this area of nearly 10,000 acres was once home to herds of wildlife and was later claimed by Stephen F. Austin, a pivotal figure recognized as the Father of Texas.
The origins of First Colony trace back to a Mexican land grant in the early 1820s, with the settlers forming the region’s initial Anglo planter community. Over time, the land transitioned into homesteads, agriculture, livestock, and farming, contributing to its rich heritage and economic growth.
However, the true transformation of First Colony began in the modern era, particularly in 1972 when a joint venture between Gerald D. Heinz of Houston and Cousins Properties Incorporated of Atlanta acquired 7,500 acres for a historic $43 million. This acquisition marked one of Texas’s largest real estate transactions, setting the stage for the area’s visionary development.
In 1978, Gerald Heinz shared his forward-thinking vision for the community at the Sugar Creek Country Club, igniting local interest and cooperation. Through meticulous planning and strategic acquisitions, First Colony expanded its footprint with an additional 1,800 acres purchased from the Frost ranch, known for its prized cattle and horses.
Central to its success was a meticulous blend of residential and commercial developments, coupled with essential community amenities like schools, libraries, and recreational centers. Today, First Colony boasts approximately 65,000 residents across 100 diverse neighborhoods, embodying a harmonious mix of living, working, shopping, and leisure.
What distinguishes First Colony is its enduring commitment to the master plan that envisaged a community where residents could live, work, and play cohesively. This visionary approach, coupled with stringent architectural guidelines, created a sense of unity and pride among its residents.
The Fort Bend Independent School District, closely aligned with First Colony’s development, consistently upholds its reputation for quality education, further enhancing the area’s appeal. Moreover, the area’s carefully crafted environment, architectural details, and lush landscaping serve as a model for communities nationwide.
The First Colony Community Services Association, established in 1982, has played a pivotal role in preserving the area’s natural beauty and architectural integrity. Their efforts in providing amenities and enforcing deed restrictions have significantly contributed to enhancing property values.
The collaborative efforts between the city of Sugar Land and developers have not only attracted major corporations but also nurtured a thriving business district, anchored by the First Colony Mall. This mall, encompassing over a million square feet, serves as a hub for retail, dining, and community events.
Sugar Land Town Square, with its blend of residential spaces, offices, and recreational areas, has become a cultural and social epicenter, hosting over 200 events annually. This visionary approach to urban planning has set First Colony as a standard-bearer for modern master-planned communities.
As First Colony celebrates its 40th anniversary, its legacy as a vibrant, thriving community stands tall, showcasing the enduring success of a well-conceived and meticulously executed master plan.