King-Lorenz House

Historical marker location:

South 7th St., Stockdale, Texas

( Located on 7th Street, 3 blocks south of Main Street, Stockdale.)

Marker installed: 1984

This home was constructed in 1898 for Robert and Rachel Emma (King) Smith. Rachel was the daughter of John R. King, an early Texas military and political leader. His descendants have owned the home since its construction, except for the years 1911-14. Wade Lorenz (1896-1930), a former Texas Ranger who later lived here, was a Stockdale businessman and rancher. The home is a variation of the I-house plan and features decorative woodwork on the porches.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1984

Incise on base: Dedicated to the memory of Mrs. Bernice King Lorenz Bird.

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.