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Caldwell-Kone-Hyatt House

San Marcos, Hays County, Texas

Marker Inscription

Robert M. Caldwell (1836-84), son of pioneer Texas colonists, built this house in 1869. His wife, Mary, was a sister of Col. E. M. House (1858-1938), advisor to U. s. President Woodrow Wilson. Acquired in 1874 by the Kone family, the residence was occupied by Rebecca Pitts (Mrs. Samuel Reid) Kone (1828-1910). Her son, Edward Rives Kone (1848-1933), was Hays County judge for 26 years before his election as state agriculture commissioner in 1908. Kone heirs sold the home to Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hyatt in 1961. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1975

Erected by Texas Historical Commission

The Story

Robert M. Caldwell, son of pioneer Texas colonists, built this San Marcos house in 1869. His wife was a sister of Edward M. House, the shadowy "Colonel House" who became President Woodrow Wilson's closest confidential adviser. The Kone family owned it from 1874, among them Edward Rives Kone, a long-serving county judge who won election as state agriculture commissioner in 1908.

Why it matters

Through its families the house touches the highest circles of American power, linking a small Texas town to the man who helped guide Wilson through World War I.

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Related people

  • ¡ Robert M. Caldwell
  • ¡ Edward M. House
  • ¡ Woodrow Wilson
  • ¡ Edward Rives Kone

Themes & tags

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