Smith-Marcuse-Lowry House
3913 Ave. C, Austin, TXThe Missouri, Kansas and Texas Land and Town Co. and investors A.C. and Gertrude S. Marconnier sold lots 1-4 in Block 10 of Hyde Park Addition No. 2 to George Smith on May 8, 1894, for $840, obligating him to initiate construction of a home worth at least $1500 by September 1st. Smith contracted with local builder John Geggie to construct a 2-story house with eight rooms and necessary additions and appurtenances (DR 119:630; 126:17; Mechanics' Liens 90:605). Smith subsequently moved to Houston, selling 3913 Avenue C to Ada Smith and Willie R. Smith on January 21, 1901. In turn, they conveyed the property to Louis Marcuse on July 25, 1905 (DR 198:596,610).
A native of Koenigsberg, Prussia, Marcuse immigrated to the United States in 1867 and settled in Austin in 1873. He worked as a bookkeeper for carriage and wagon dealer Michael Paggi before opening his own grocery and feed store. Although apparently retired by the time he acquired 3913 Avenue C, he served for six years on the City Board of Egualization while residing at the house. (City of Austin. Historic Landmark Inventory File C14h-76002). His widow, Emma, continued to live there after his death on February 13, 1920. The Marcuse's daughter, Alwine (Alvina), married realtor Nelson R. Lowry and the couple set up housekeeping with her mother. After Lowry's death about 1924, Alwine and her son continued living at 3913 Avenue C until the property was conveyed to a local real estate broker in 1968.
Recent owners George and Martha Boutwell purchased the Smith-Marcuse-Lowry House after it had been condemned by the City of Austin. They restoration efforts included replacement of the roof and reconstruction of the porches, balustrades and fencing based on historic photographs. Zoned historic by the City of Austin on June 19, 1977, the house received an Historic Preservation Award from the Heritage Society of Austin in 1983 (City of Austin. Historic Landmark Inventory File C14h-76-002; Hyde Park Historic Homes Tour 1984:6).
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Texas is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.