Beloved Historic Home in the Dripping Springs Historic District Begins Exciting New Chapter
DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX — A cherished landmark in the heart of the Dripping Springs Historic District is entering a new era. The historic residence at 101 College Street, fondly known as Short Mama’s, is now under construction to become Short Mama’s Bistro, a European-inspired dining destination that blends history, hospitality, and culinary artistry.
Originally constructed in 1899, the home is best remembered for its longtime resident, Beulah “Short Mama” Crumley Haydon. During its days as a boarding house, Ms. Haydon became a beloved figure in the community, offering warm hospitality, cool refreshments, and homemade treats to locals and travelers alike. She lived in the home until her passing in 1989 at the age of ninety-seven. Beautifully restored in the 1990s, the property is listed on the City of Dripping Springs’ official registry of historic sites.
The upcoming transformation will preserve the historic façade while reimagining the interior to create an inviting, one-of-a-kind dining experience. Short Mama’s Bistro will feature a menu with European flair, offering refined yet approachable dishes.
When completed, Short Mama’s Bistro will be open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, a Sunday brunch, and an incredibly special Monday evening service exclusively for local residents, featuring guest chefs, wine dinners, and rotating seasonal menus. Guests will enjoy a variety of settings, from elegant indoor dining to the more casual outdoor patios and bars. The Carriage House and Cottage will also be magically reimagined as spaces for intimate private dining ideal for special occasions.
“Preserving this home’s history while bringing something fresh and exciting to the community is at the heart of our vision,” said Dripping resident Pat Fox, the owner of Short Mama’s Bistro. His partner Fabienne Bollom added “We want every guest to feel the warmth, charm, and sense of connection that Short Mama herself embodied.”
Due to the specialized nature of historic preservation, construction timelines may vary. Updates and announcements will be shared at www.shortmama.com as the project progresses.
Short Mama’s Bistro is poised to become a cornerstone of the Dripping Springs dining scene, honoring the past while offering a memorable new experience. We cannot wait to introduce Short Mama’s Bistro to the Dripping Springs community.