Link-Lee House
Houston, Harris County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Constructed in 1912 for businessman John Wiley Link, this building was designed by the firm of Sanguinet, Staats & Barnes and was the first home completed in the Montrose subdivision, which Link developed. Oilman Thomas P. Lee purchased it for his family in 1916 and in 1922 had Houston architect Alfred Finn make several alterations. An exceptional example of Neoclassical architecture, the Link-Lee house features a pronounced portico, elaborate brickwork and ornate terra cotta ornamentation. Sold to the Catholic Diocese of Galveston in 1946, it has served the University of St. Thomas since the school opened in 1947. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2001
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Completed in 1912 for businessman John Wiley Link, this Neoclassical mansion was the first house finished in Montrose, the Houston subdivision Link himself developed. Oilman Thomas P. Lee bought it in 1916 and commissioned later alterations, giving the grand portico and ornate terra cotta its final form. Since 1947 it has served as the centerpiece of the University of St. Thomas.
Why it matters
The house traces Houston's rise from oil-boom fortunes to a city of universities and planned neighborhoods.
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Related people
- · John Wiley Link
- · Thomas P. Lee
- · Alfred Finn
Themes & tags
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