Lasker Home for Children
Galveston, Galveston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This two-story galleried Greek revival residence was built about 1870 by Galveston attorney Marcus C. McLemore (d. 1898). The Society for the Help of Homeless Children bought the home in 1901 for use as a charitable center. It was enlarged in 1912 with funds contributed by Morris Lasker (1840-1916), a local businessman. Changes included an expanded basement and an addition to the northwest corner. The house was named in honor of Lasker in 1913. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1980
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Built around 1870 as a galleried Greek Revival home for Galveston attorney Marcus C. McLemore, this house was bought in 1901 by the Society for the Help of Homeless Children to serve the city's orphaned and needy young. Businessman Morris Lasker funded a major 1912 expansion, and the following year the institution was renamed in his honor.
Why it matters
It reflects the private charitable networks that cared for vulnerable children in American cities before the modern welfare state, in a port town repeatedly tested by disaster.
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Related people
- · Marcus C. McLemore
- · Morris Lasker
Themes & tags
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