What makes a home historic? According to Katherine Seale, executive director of Preservation Dallas, the answer lies in memories. “Historic houses are wonderful sanctuaries! They are more than just decoration and design; they are witnesses to life’s important moments – kitchen secrets, homework reports, family dinners, and holiday gatherings.  Historic houses are a reflection of hundreds of thousands of memories that just can’t be captured in a new house,” Ms. Seale said. Tour the following historic properties – all in the Park Cities – that Briggs Freeman associates are holding open today from 1 to 3 p.m.: See below for addresses and showing times on Sunday, December 13.                Homes in Highland Park         4405 Belclaire   Designed in 1938 by Fooshee and Cheek (who designed the Highland Park Village), this elegant home on a 75-foot lot has since been redesigned by Richard Drummond Davis. Within, the five-bedroom, five-and-a-half bath Terrasse home, natural light fills satisfying spaces, defined by wide archways and an easy flow. $3,750,000,  Susie and Pete Ryan (972-380-7769), open today from 1 to 3 p.m.           4400 Lorraine Avenue   Built in 1935 and respectfully updated, this home is graced with Tudoresque details. Leaded glass windows and half-timbering enhance the white brick façade, which opens to a wide hall and gracious formals. Situated on a wide corner lot, the Terrasse property has three-bedrooms, three-and-a-half-baths and boasts hardwood floors and an updated kitchen. $2,450,000,  Lindy Mahoney (972-380-7946), open today from 1 to 3 p.m.                Homes in University Park         3606 Lovers Lane   The two-bedroom, two-bath home, situated on a “hidden” lake of which most are unaware, this 1950 mid-century modern home was designed by Todd Dale, an associate of O’Neal Ford’s. Two swans grace the lake waters, filled with bass and catfish. The house is set back on its 150-by-135-foot lot among towering trees. The dining room gives one the feeling of being on a promontory over the water. $1,895,000,  Jeanne Shelton (972-380-7869), open today from 1 to 3 p.m.           3524 Greenbrier Drive   Built in 1938 and steps from Caruth Park, this home boasts timeless charm – and a dining room perfect for Christmas dinner! The first floor comprises a center hall plan, with a downstairs master and a generous family room overlooking the backyard and saltwater pool. We invite you to Visit the four-bedroom, four-bath home with an updated kitchen during the tour. $1,249,000,  Joan Eleazer and Layne Pitzer (972-733-9230), open today from 1 to 3 p.m.