Old Edward Steves House
San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Excellent example of lavish Victorian architecture of late 1800s. Built in 1874 by German immigrant Edward Steves, founder of a family prominent in city financial and social circles. Stuccoed limestone exterior walls are 13" thick. The richly decorated front porch reflects skilled carpentry and millwork. Rain water once drained into a cistern from the Mansard roof. The San Antonio Conservation Society acquired the house in 1952. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1970
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
German immigrant Edward Steves, who rose to prominence in San Antonio's financial and social circles, built this lavish limestone residence in 1874. Its 13-inch stuccoed walls, ornate carpentry, Mansard roof, and rainwater cistern make it a showcase of late-Victorian craftsmanship. The San Antonio Conservation Society acquired the house in 1952, and it was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1970.
Why it matters
The Steves House reflects the wealth and cultural imprint of the German immigrants who helped shape 19th-century San Antonio, and stands as an early triumph of the Texas historic-preservation movement.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- Steves Homestead Museumnearby
- Villa Finale0.1 mi away
- ArmonArt0.2 mi away
- Cactus Bra Gallery0.2 mi away
- San Angel Folk Art0.2 mi away
- Blue Star Contemporary Art Center0.2 mi away
Attractions
- Yanaguana Garden0.7 mi away
- La Villita0.7 mi away
- Casa Navarro State Historical Site0.7 mi away
- River boat boarding0.8 mi away
- Tower of the Americas0.8 mi away · 739 East César E. Chávez Boulevard, San Antonio, TX
- River boat boarding0.9 mi away
Food & drink
- McDonald's0.9 mi away · 101 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX
- The Original Mexican Restaurant0.9 mi away
- Chipotle0.9 mi away · 849 East Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX
- Cafe Ole0.9 mi away
- Agave Bar0.9 mi away
- Lone Star Cafe0.9 mi away
Places to stay
- Hotel Contessa0.8 mi away · 306 West Market Street
- The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio0.8 mi away · 420 West Market Street, San Antonio
- Hilton Palacio del Rio0.8 mi away
- The Monarch San Antonio0.8 mi away
- Mokara Hotel and Spa0.9 mi away · 212 West Crockett Street, San Antonio, TX
- Grand Hyatt San Antonio0.9 mi away · 600 East Market Street, San Antonio, TX
Places data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Hours and details change — call ahead.
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Related people
- · Edward Steves
Themes & tags
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