Contemplate this: What stories could these walls tell, if the B. J. Smith Property could speak? This isn’t just a house. It is a landmark. It is a silent narrator of Austin’s evolving story. The B. J. Smith Property stands as a testament to Austin’s early days.
Purchased by B. J. Smith at auction from the State of Texas in 1853, Smith was a school proprietor. This property quickly became one of the city’s esteemed early homes. Constructed probably in the 1850s, the B. J. Smith Property showcases the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Handmade hardware and carefully crafted doors are testaments to its quality.
The B. J. Smith Property at 610 Guadalupe offers a glimpse into Texas architecture of the mid-19th century. It is a one-story Texas example of the Greek Revival style. It features a full-width front porch. Later additions were added to the rear.
Designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1968, the B. J. Smith Property is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a tangible link to Austin’s past. Imagine B. J. Smith. He oversaw his school and watched Austin grow around him.
The B. J. Smith Property is also part of the Bremond Block Historic District. This district is one of the few remaining upper-class Victorian neighborhoods in Texas. Large live oaks and lush planting frame these residences.
The Bremond Block includes houses built for the Bremond family. They were prominent in Austin’s social, merchandising, and banking circles in the late-nineteenth century. This district also includes several houses built or altered by the North family.
As you stand before the B. J. Smith Property, consider its enduring legacy. It represents a time when Austin was beginning to find its identity. The B. J. Smith Property stands as a reminder of the individuals who shaped the city’s character. Take a moment to appreciate the history etched into every corner of this remarkable place.