Brown Building
BROWN BUILDING
In 1938, architects C.H. Page and Son designed the Brown Building for legendary businessman Herman Brown on a prominent site at the southwest corner of Colorado and eighth streets in downtown Austin. Built of concrete reinforced with structural steel, the eight-story office tower exemplified the tenets of Art Moderne design. Its flush piers, recessed metal spandrels, vertically arranged casement windows and stylized granite entry provide the hallmarks of the style. Additions of a ninth story in 1949 and a tenth story in 1952 matched the scale and materials of the original composition. Surviving virtually unchanged since this period of significance, the building retains a high degree of its historic integrity.
The building’s interior also reflects the Art Moderne design with panels of pink tinged marble gracing the ceiling and walls, contrasting with a pink, green and yellow terrazzo floor. Elaborate geometric aluminum and glass lighting panels sweep from the center of the ceiling to the top of each elevator. The building housed many significant companies throughout the 20th century, including construction firm Brown & Root, offices for U.S. congressman and future president Lyndon Baines Johnson, and the Texas Broadcasting Corporation, which operated from the building for many years with humorist Cactus Pryor and future governor John Connally. The building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. In the early 2000s, the building was converted to include high-end lofts.
RECORDED TEXAS HISTORIC LANDMARK – 2013
MARKER IS PROPERTY OF THE STATE OF TEXAS
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.
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
European exploration of the region began in the 17th century when Spanish explorers ventured into what is now Travis County. However, it was not until the early 19th century that permanent settlements were established. In 1835, the area became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico, and the county was officially created in 1840.
Travis County was named after William Barret Travis, a Texas Revolution hero who commanded the Texan forces during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Throughout the 19th century, the county experienced significant growth and development, driven by factors such as the arrival of immigrants, the expansion of the railroad, and the establishment of institutions like the University of Texas at Austin in 1883.
During the 20th century, Travis County continued to evolve and modernize. Austin, the county seat and state capital, grew into a vibrant and culturally diverse city, known for its live music scene, technological innovations, and progressive policies. The county became a center for government, education, and business, attracting a wide range of industries and residents.
Today, Travis County is one of the most populous and economically vibrant counties in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and a wide range of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. The county's history, coupled with its present-day dynamism, contributes to its unique character and makes it a significant region in the Lone Star State.
Travis County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Travis County, Texas.
- Pre-19th Century: The area that would become Travis County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache.
1691: Spanish explorers, including Domingo Terán de los Ríos and Alonso de León, explored the region.
1835: Texas Revolution against Mexico begins, and the area becomes part of the Republic of Texas.
1839: Waterloo, a small village settled near the Colorado River, is selected as the site for the new capital of the Republic of Texas.
1840: Travis County is officially established and named after William Barret Travis, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
1842: The capital is officially named Austin after Stephen F. Austin, "The Father of Texas."
1871: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Austin, facilitating transportation and spurring growth.
1883: The University of Texas at Austin is founded.
1891: The Texas State Capitol building, an iconic landmark, is completed.
1930s-1940s: The construction of dams, including Mansfield Dam and Tom Miller Dam, on the Colorado River provides flood control and creates Lake Travis and Lake Austin, respectively.
1970s-1990s: Austin experiences significant growth and becomes known for its live music scene, technology industry, and progressive culture.
2000s-Present: Travis County continues to grow in population and economic significance, with Austin being recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.