Old Edward Steves (Stevens) House

Old Edward Steves House Visiting Hours, Tickets, and San Antonio Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Discovering the Old Edward Steves House

Nestled in the heart of San Antonio’s King William Historic District, the Old Edward Steves House—also known as the Steves Homestead—stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant German-American heritage and 19th-century architectural innovation. Built in 1876 for Edward Steves, a successful German immigrant and lumber magnate, this mansion showcases the rare French Second Empire style, with its distinctive mansard roof, limestone construction, and intricate ironwork (San Antonio Conservation Society). Carefully preserved rooms, original furnishings, and unique outbuildings offer visitors an immersive journey into the Gilded Age, while the estate’s riverside setting highlights its historical and cultural significance within Texas’s first designated historic district.

The Steves Homestead is open to the public with flexible visiting hours, accessible amenities, and a variety of self-guided and docent-led tours. Beyond its museum role, it serves as a community hub, hosting educational programs and heritage events that celebrate San Antonio’s multicultural roots. This comprehensive guide provides all essential information for planning your visit—hours, ticket prices, accessibility, and nearby attractions—alongside insights into the house’s history, architecture, and enduring legacy.

For the latest updates, visit the San Antonio Conservation Society’s official website and consider enhancing your experience with digital resources like the Audiala app.

(San Antonio Conservation Society, Texas State Historical Association, SA House Registry)

History and Construction
The Steves Family Legacy
Architectural and Artistic Significance
The Homestead in the King William District
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Outbuildings and Site Features
Visitor Experience: Tours and Atmosphere
Preservation and Museum Era
Community Engagement and Educational Value
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
FAQs
Visuals and Media
References

History and Construction

The Edward Steves Homestead was completed in 1876 for Edward Steves, founder of the Steves Lumber Company. Designed in the French Second Empire style, the three-story mansion features locally quarried limestone, imported woods, and innovative features for its time such as indoor plumbing and gas lighting (The Cultural Landscape Foundation). Though widely attributed to architect Alfred Giles, definitive records of authorship are not available. The construction, led by builder John H. Kampmann and mason Anthony Earhart, cost approximately $15,000—a sum reflecting the family’s prosperity and commitment to quality.

The Steves Family Legacy

Edward Steves immigrated from Germany in the mid-1800s, establishing himself as a leading figure in San Antonio’s lumber industry. The Steves Lumber Company, founded in 1866, supplied materials for much of the area’s development (Texas State Historical Association). The family resided in the homestead for three generations, contributing to local culture through philanthropy and civic involvement. In 1952, Edna Steves Vaughn, granddaughter of Edward Steves, donated the house to the San Antonio Conservation Society, preserving it as a museum for future generations (San Antonio Conservation Society).

Architectural and Artistic Significance

French Second Empire Style

The homestead is a rare Texas example of the French Second Empire style, characterized by a steep mansard roof clad in slate, ornate ironwork, and an ashlar limestone façade (SA House Registry). The home’s design incorporates Italianate and subtle Gothic influences, with tall windows, an L-shaped plan, and a blend of European features adapted to Texas climate and materials (TSHA Handbook).

Structural Features

Mansard Roof: Concave shape with iron cresting, providing attic living space and striking silhouette.
Limestone Construction: Durable and locally sourced, with prominent ashlar stonework.
Ironwork: Decorative cast-iron railings and balconies produced by Alamo Iron Works.
Interior Details: 13-foot ceilings, intricate woodwork, marble fireplaces, and original gasoliers.

Interior Design

The home’s interiors reflect understated German elegance, with spacious parlors, a formal dining room, and bedrooms. Notably, the house was heated by stoves rather than ornate fireplaces (SAH Archipedia). Period furnishings, including an 1857 Chickering and Sons grand piano and a mosaic table depicting St. Peter’s Square, enhance the authenticity (Wikipedia).

The Homestead in the King William District

The Steves Homestead is a cornerstone of the King William Historic District, established as Texas’s first historic district in 1968. The neighborhood, shaped by German immigrants, features a concentration of 19th-century mansions and lush gardens. The homestead’s riverside location, architectural distinction, and accessibility make it a focal point for heritage tourism and community pride (City of San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location: 509 King William Street, San Antonio, TX 78204

Visiting Hours:

Typically open Thursday through Sunday, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (check the official website for latest updates).

Tickets:

Adults: $10
Seniors (65+): $8
Children (6-12): $5
Children under 6: Free
Group tours and school visits available by appointment.

Accessibility:

Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevator access to certain areas.
Contact the museum in advance for specific accommodations.

Parking:

Limited street parking; nearby paid lots available.
Public transit and rideshare recommended.

(San Antonio Conservation Society)

Outbuildings and Site Features

Carriage House (1875): Oldest outbuilding, restored and representative of the era’s utility architecture (Wikipedia).
Servants’ Quarters (1877): Now serve as the visitor center, offering restrooms and a gift shop.
River House: Once the site of San Antonio’s first indoor swimming pool, reflecting the family’s affluence and technological innovation (SATX Property).
Landscaped Gardens: Riverside lawns and a fountain from the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition.

Visitor Experience: Tours and Atmosphere

Self-Guided Tours:

Explore the house and grounds at your own pace with informational brochures and placards (Texas Hill Country).

Guided Tours:

Docents provide in-depth stories about the family, architecture, and the neighborhood’s heritage.
Guided tours available by appointment and during scheduled hours.

Photography:

Non-flash photography is generally permitted; check current policies on arrival.

Educational Programs:

The museum offers workshops, lectures, and seasonal events that illuminate the cultural and social history of 19th-century San Antonio (San Antonio Conservation Society Events).

Preservation and Museum Era

Following its donation to the San Antonio Conservation Society in 1952, the homestead underwent meticulous restoration, guided by historic photographs and original documents. Since opening as a museum in 1954, it has remained the only King William mansion with museum status. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark (National Register of Historic Places).

Community Engagement and Educational Value

The Steves Homestead serves as a vital cultural resource and educational hub, offering:

Interpretive Programs: Exploring immigration, architectural history, and social customs of the 19th century.
Community Events: Seasonal celebrations, lectures, and art exhibits connect past and present residents.
Interactive Exhibits: Enhance understanding of the house’s context and historical significance (San Antonio Conservation Society Tours).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Combine with Walking Tours: The King William District features many historic homes; walking guides are available at the visitor center.
Nearby Landmarks: Guenther House, San Antonio Museum of Art, Spanish Governor’s Palace, and the River Walk are within easy reach.
Arrival: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends or during events (GPSmyCity).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Steves Homestead visiting hours?
A: Typically Thursday–Sunday, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Confirm before visiting.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for children 6–12, free for children under 6.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment and during scheduled hours.

Q: Is the house accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
A: Yes, with ramps and elevator access to certain areas; contact ahead for details.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the museum?
A: Non-flash photography is generally allowed; confirm on arrival.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Limited street parking; paid lots and public transportation options nearby.

Q: What else can I see nearby?
A: Explore other King William District attractions, the River Walk, and downtown San Antonio landmarks.

Visuals and Media

The museum’s official website offers a gallery of high-quality photos, virtual tours, and interactive maps. On-site, informational plaques and exhibits further enrich the visitor experience.

References

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For current hours, ticket information, and upcoming events, always refer to the San Antonio Conservation Society’s official site. Download the Audiala app for immersive audio tours and exclusive content. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on San Antonio’s historic sites.