Ahrenbeck-Urban Home
Hempstead, Waller County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This two-story galleried Greek Revival residence was built about 1872 by German native William Ahrenbeck (1828-1888). A prominent area civic leader and builder, he also served as postmaster and mayor of Hempstead. His daughter Ella Justine Ahrenbeck (1866-1949) lived here following his death. In 1917 she sold the property to businessman R. R. Urban (1873-1930). Additions to the home, which remained in his family until 1965, were built during his ownership. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1980
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
German immigrant William Ahrenbeck built this two-story galleried Greek Revival home around 1872 in Hempstead, where he became a prominent civic leader, builder, postmaster, and mayor. After his death his daughter Ella Justine Ahrenbeck lived here until she sold the property in 1917 to businessman R. R. Urban, whose family enlarged the house and held it until 1965. The home was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1980.
Why it matters
The house reflects how German immigrants rose to civic leadership in Reconstruction-era Texas and left their mark in the elegant architecture of the towns they helped govern.
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Related people
- · William Ahrenbeck
- · Ella Justine Ahrenbeck
- · R. R. Urban
Themes & tags
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