Walter Tips House
Austin, Travis County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This two-story Victorian house was built in 1876 for the family of Walter Tips (1841-1911), a prosperous hardware merchant. A native of Germany and Confederate veteran, Tips served in the state senate, 1893-96. The home was remodeled in 1909 to its present appearance. Another prominent businessman, Theo P. Meyer (1878-1966), occupied the residence from 1925 to 1966. The structure was originally located adjacent to the historic Bremond Block west of downtown Austin. Scheduled for demolition in 1975, it was rescued by Franklin Savings Association and moved to this site for restoration. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1976
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
This two-story Victorian was built in 1876 for prosperous hardware merchant Walter Tips, a German immigrant and Confederate veteran who later served in the Texas Senate. Remodeled to its present look in 1909, it was long home to another Austin businessman, Theo P. Meyer. Originally standing near the historic Bremond Block, the house was slated for demolition in 1975 until Franklin Savings Association rescued and relocated it here for restoration.
Why it matters
Its survival is a small parable of historic preservation—a threatened landmark saved by being moved rather than lost to the wrecking ball, a fate that befell countless 19th-century homes as cities modernized.
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Related people
- · Walter Tips
- · Theo P. Meyer
Themes & tags
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