HistoricSiteMarkers
Progressive & Modern Era

Ike Wood House

San Marcos, Hays County, Texas

Marker Inscription

After settling in San Marcos about 1886, I. W. (Ike) Wood (1866-1960) became a prominent merchant, banker, and civic leader. In 1888 he married Elizabeth Williamson (1869-1961). Wood hired local architect John Whaley (1853-1915) to construct this classical revival house in 1908. A row of massive Corinthian columns and a hanging second floor balcony dominate the structure's classical facade. The Wood family lived here for over 50 years. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1978 Incise in base: Restored by Mr. and Mrs. william H. Crook in 1962

Erected by Texas Historical Commission

The Story

After arriving in San Marcos about 1886, I.W. "Ike" Wood rose to prominence as a merchant, banker, and civic leader. In 1908 he engaged local architect John Whaley to design this Classical Revival home, distinguished by massive Corinthian columns and a hanging second-floor balcony. The Wood family lived here for more than fifty years before the house was restored in 1962.

Why it matters

The stately home reflects the wealth and civic ambition of small-city merchants who shaped Texas's Main Streets around the turn of the twentieth century.

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Related people

  • Β· I. W. "Ike" Wood
  • Β· Elizabeth Williamson
  • Β· John Whaley

Themes & tags

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