Steamboat House (Huntsville, Texas) facts for kids
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| Location | Huntsville |
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| Type | House museum |
The Steamboat House is a special historic home located in Huntsville, Texas. It's part of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum complex at Sam Houston State University. This house is famous because it's where Sam Houston, a very important figure in Texas history, passed away on July 26, 1863.
The house got its unique nickname, "Steamboat," because of its unusual design. People thought it looked like a steamboat! Today, it helps us learn about the past and the life of Sam Houston.
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The Steamboat House: A Unique Home
The Steamboat House was built in 1858 by Dr. Rufus W. Bailey. He intended it as a wedding gift for his son. However, his son and his new wife decided not to live there. They found the house's unusual look a bit too strange!
Why Was It Called "Steamboat"?
The house's design was quite different from other homes of its time. It had a tall, narrow shape with multiple levels and porches. This made it look a lot like the steamboats that traveled on rivers. That's how it earned its famous nickname from the local people.
Sam Houston's Last Home
Sam Houston was a key leader in Texas history. He was a general, a president of the Republic of Texas, and a U.S. Senator. After a long and important life, he spent his final days in the Steamboat House.
A Place of Remembrance
Sam Houston passed away in the Steamboat House on July 26, 1863. His funeral was held right there, in the upstairs parlor of the house. This makes the Steamboat House a very significant place for remembering his life and legacy.
History of the House
After Dr. Bailey, who built the house, passed away shortly before Sam Houston, his son Frank inherited the property. The house changed hands several times over the years.
Moving and Preserving History
In 1933, a businessman named J. E. Josey bought the Steamboat House. He then gave it to the Texas Historical Commission. To protect this important piece of history, the house was moved in 1936. It was carefully relocated to the grounds of Sam Houston State University. This move helped ensure the house would be preserved for future generations. In 1964, it was officially recognized as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, marking its importance in Texas history.
