Ashbel Smith Building facts for kids
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Ashbel Smith Building
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Ashbel Smith Building in 2009
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 Ashbel Smith Building
Location in Texas
Ashbel Smith Building
Location in the United States
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| Location | 916 Strand (Ave. B), Galveston, Texas |
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| Area | 1.8 acres (0.73 ha) |
| Built | 1891 |
| Architect | Nicholas J. Clayton |
| Architectural style | Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 69000203 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 28, 1969 |
The Ashbel Smith Building, also known as Old Red, is a very old and important building in Galveston, Texas. It was built in 1891 and stands out with its red brick and stone design. This building was the very first one for the University of Texas Medical Branch.
Contents
The Ashbel Smith Building: A Historic Landmark
The Ashbel Smith Building is famous for its unique look and long history. It's often called "Old Red" because of its red brick and sandstone. This building shows off a style called Romanesque Revival architecture. This means it was designed to look like old Roman buildings, with big arches and strong, heavy walls.
What is Old Red?
Old Red was designed by a skilled architect named Nicholas J. Clayton. He made sure the building was strong and beautiful. When it was finished in 1891, it became the first main building for the University of Texas Medical Branch. This school helps train doctors and other medical professionals.
A Look Back in Time
In 1949, the building was named after Ashbel Smith. He was a very important person in the history of Texas. He was a diplomat for the Republic of Texas, which was an independent country before Texas joined the United States. He also helped start the whole University of Texas System.
The building was recognized as a special historical place in Texas in 1969. Later, in 1985, it was carefully fixed up and made new again.
Surviving the Storms
The Ashbel Smith Building has seen a lot of history, including some big storms. In 2008, a powerful storm called Hurricane Ike hit Galveston. The building was flooded with six feet of water, but it was repaired.
Even more amazing, Old Red was one of the few buildings that survived the terrible Galveston Hurricane of 1900. This hurricane was one of the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history. The fact that Old Red stood strong shows how well it was built!
Images for kids
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This was the first University of Texas Medical Branch building
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A closer look at the building's details
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The Ashbel Smith Building, also known as Old Red
