How about a tale of transformation? We are standing before the Link-Lee House Plaque. This marks a site that embodies Houston’s ambitious spirit. The Link-Lee House has witnessed the city’s growth.
In the early 1900s John W. Link envisioned Montrose as an upscale residential area. He was a wealthy man. Link was a financier, attorney and lumber tycoon. He purchased 250 acres for his grand plan.
In 1912 Link completed his own home. It cost about $60000. The Link-Lee House was a striking example of neoclassical architecture. It featured a prominent portico, intricate brickwork and terracotta ornamentation. The house had five bedrooms a ballroom and a conservatory. It covered 10500 square feet over three stories.
The Links only lived there until 1916. Oilman T.P. Lee bought it for $90000. This was reportedly the highest price ever paid for a single-family home in Houston at the time. Thus the Link-Lee House became synonymous with luxury.
Thomas Peter Lee started as an oil field worker. He relocated to Saratoga Texas in 1903. In 1914 Lee co-founded Farmers Petroleum Company. He became its president.
Lee acquired the Link-Lee House at the end of 1916. It was the largest single-family residence in Houston then. It had over 10000 square feet. The main floor included a breakfast room, formal dining room and music room. The Link-Lee House also featured a full basement and a third-floor ballroom.
After Lee’s death his family kept the house until 1940. Then they sold the Link-Lee House to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston for $120000. The University of St. Thomas acquired it in 1947.
The Link-Lee Mansion became the university’s first home. It now houses the offices of the president and vice presidents. It also provides a welcoming space for campus events. The Link-Lee House serves the University for 71 years.
The surrounding patio, porch and yard were used for Neewollah. This was the university’s Halloween party. The tradition ended in 2006. The Edward P. White Memorial Plaza was constructed.
In 2001 the Link-Lee House became a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. This is the highest honor the state can bestow. It validates the mansion’s historic and architectural significance. It matters to the University of St. Thomas Houston and Texas.
Future plans involve restoring the Link-Lee House to its 1912 appearance. This depends on the university purchasing adjacent properties. For now the Link-Lee House stands as a symbol. It represents Houston’s past and its future.
So as we stand here before the Link-Lee House Plaque remember its journey. From a private residence to a university hub it continues to inspire. It reminds us that even buildings can have many lives each as important as the last.