The McDowell House, built in 1857, is the oldest inhabited structure in Gonzales.
The McDowell House at 524 St. Francis Street is a captivating piece of history, originally constructed as a two-sided dogtrot cabin in 1857. This architectural gem, which now proudly stands in Gonzales, began its story in Lockhart, Caldwell County—30 miles north of its current location. Built by Samuel James Polk McDowell (1824-1920), a Confederate soldier and leader of the Lockhart Volunteer Regiment, this home was once considered one of Lockhart’s finest residences.
Constructed with longleaf pine woodwork on the interior and cypress siding brought in from Indianola, the McDowell House stands as a testament to 19th-century craftsmanship. Remarkably, much of the glass throughout the home remains original. In its early days, this classic dogtrot cabin featured separate outbuildings for the kitchen and bathrooms, with brick and stone fireplaces anchoring either side of the structure.
In 1875, a significant addition was made to the home—a front parlor designed for McDowell’s wife, who taught piano lessons. This space, separated by double folding doors, served as a music room and became a gathering spot for the community. The dogtrot, originally open, was also enclosed during this time, further evolving the home’s layout.
After years of sitting vacant in Lockhart, the McDowell House was saved from neglect in 2004 when it was moved to Gonzales. Restoration efforts carefully brought the home back to life, reconstructing the original front and back porches, while adding modern necessities such as electricity, water, gas, and plumbing for the first time. For a period, the McDowell House operated as a charming bed & breakfast, offering visitors a taste of Texas history. Today, it serves as the private residence of Ellen Kennard, a 6th generation Gonzales native.
This is more than just a home—it’s a living piece of Texas history, representing the resilience and preservation of the past for future generations.
Front Parlor: Currently used as a front parlor, this room was added in 1875 to the dogtrot as a music room for Mrs. McDowell, where she taught piano lessons.
Dining Room: The dining room features an early Texas dining table and chairs, a Welsh cabinet displaying fish and oyster plates, and vintage oil paintings of Gonzales County. An adjoining nook contains family heirloom silver, china, and rare 19th-century Texas maps.