Historical Marker

Robert F. Rowntree House

Historical marker location:
18606 RR 2323, Llano, Texas
( 20 miles SW of Llano, less than 1 mile northeast of Prairie Mountain School on RR 2323)
Marker installed: 2016
Marker size: 18" x 28" with post

Early Llano County leader, Robert Flack (Bob) Rowntree (1847-1893), built this majestic two-story house in the Prairie Mountain community from 1875 to 1888. Scottish architect John K. Finlay, a pioneer in the Texas granite industry, designed the home using local red-brown sandstone obtained nearby and white limestone from Burnet County. Built with 20-inch thick walls, the house contains eight rooms, each with a fireplace, and porches on both floors overlooking Prairie Mountain and Rough Mountain. Rowntree lived on his 8500-acre ranch with his family until his untimely death on July 19, 1893. Some believe his involvement in the Hoodoo War was connected to his death. Later, the house became the home of Ernst and Lucy (Meusebach) Marschall. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2016

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

architecture houses residential buildings
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Llano County, TX is located in the central part of the state, and its history dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Comanche peoples. In the early 1830s, European settlers began to establish settlements along the Llano River, attracted by its fertile land and abundant wildlife.

The county was officially founded in 1856, and its name was derived from the Spanish word "llano," meaning plain or flat land. Llano quickly became a center for ranching and farming, with early settlers raising cattle, sheep, and crops such as cotton and corn. The county's population grew steadily over the next few decades, and by the late 1800s, it had become an important hub of commerce and trade in the region.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Llano County experienced several boom and bust cycles, largely tied to the mining industry. The discovery of granite and other minerals in the area led to a period of economic prosperity, with numerous quarrying and mining operations throughout the county. However, these industries eventually declined, leading to a downturn in the local economy.

In recent years, Llano County has focused on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism. The region's natural beauty, including the picturesque Llano River and stunning granite formations, has attracted visitors from across the state and beyond. Today, Llano County is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, unique historical sites, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Llano County, Texas.

  • 1852 - Llano County is established by the Texas Legislature.
  • 1856 - The county's first permanent settlement, Baby Head, is founded.
  • 1860 - Llano becomes the county seat.
  • 1873 - The county courthouse is built.
  • 1892 - The Llano News, the county's first newspaper, is established.
  • 1935 - Enchanted Rock, a massive granite dome, becomes a state park.
  • 1965 - Llano County Historical Survey Committee is organized.
  • 1993 - The Bluebonnet Trail Scenic Highway is designated.
  • 2002 - The Llano River is designated as a Texas state scenic river.