Driskill Hotel
Historical marker location:Built 1885-86 by Col. Jesse L. Driskill (1824-1890), cattle king who moved to Austin in 1869.
Brick dressed with limestone. Had three grand entrances -- one the largest arched doorway in Texas. "Ladies' Entrance" was on northeast. Bust of Col. Driskill is over south arch, busts of his rancher sons on east and west. Rich furnishings were selected by Col. Driskill, who leased out his hotel -- Southwest's finest when it opened, Christmas 1886.
Host to famous Texans since 1886. Scene of inaugural ball for Gov. L.S. "Sul" Ross, Jan. 1887; inaugural balls for later governors, as well as many other state and civic social affairs.
Entertains Presidents, other national figures, foreign diplomats, artists, leaders in business and professions.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1966.