HistoricSiteMarkers
Progressive & Modern Era

Rylander-Kyle House

San Marcos, Hays County, Texas

Marker Inscription

IGNATIUS BRAMWELL RYLANDER, A DISTINGUISHED AGRICULTURALIST FROM ALABAMA, BUILT THIS IMPOSING RESIDENCE IN 1912-13. NOTED ARCHITECT ROY L. THOMAS DESIGNED THE HOME IN THE COLONIAL REVIVAL STYLE WITH CLASSICAL DETAILS AND A SYMMETRICAL FRAME EDIFICE OF BALANCED HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL LINES. THE FRONT FAÇADE IS CENTERED ON A SHALLOW PEDIMENTED PORTICO, WHICH LEADS ONTO A DOUBLE-LEVEL PORCH SUPPORTED BY SIX IONIC COLUMNS. HENRY C. KYLE, JR., AN ATTORNEY AND FORMER LEGISLATOR, BOUGHT THE HOUSE FROM THE ESTATE OF HIS GRANDFATHER IN 1943. IT REMAINS IN THE FAMILY TODAY.

Erected by Texas Historical Commission

The Story

Ignatius Bramwell Rylander, an Alabama agriculturalist, built this stately residence in 1912–13 to the design of noted architect Roy L. Thomas. Its Colonial Revival lines are crisply symmetrical, centered on a pedimented portico and a two-story porch carried by six Ionic columns. Bought in 1943 by attorney and former legislator Henry C. Kyle, Jr. from his grandfather's estate, it has remained in the family ever since.

Why it matters

The house reflects the prosperity and classical taste of early-twentieth-century Texas landowners and the architects who gave their ambitions form.

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Related people

  • · Ignatius Bramwell Rylander
  • · Roy L. Thomas

Themes & tags

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