W. B. Teagarden House

W. B. Teagarden House, San Antonio: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

San Antonio, Texas, is celebrated for its blend of rich history and architectural splendor. Among its most notable historical landmarks stands the W. B. Teagarden House—an emblematic structure in the King William Historic District. This residence, a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, captures the city’s late 19th and early 20th-century transformation, reflecting the era’s cosmopolitan growth and the influence of German and other European immigrant communities. The Queen Anne architectural style of the house, with its intricate woodwork and decorative porches, exemplifies the affluence and aspirations of San Antonio’s historic elite (Texas Historical Commission; TSHA King William Historic District).

While the W. B. Teagarden House is currently a private office and not open for regular interior tours, its exterior remains accessible to visitors interested in historic architecture and photography. Its landmark status highlights its significance in San Antonio’s narrative and the broader effort to preserve the city’s unique historical fabric (Texas Portal to History). This guide provides essential information for visitors, including access details, architectural context, preservation status, and nearby attractions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of this historic site (San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation; Happy to Be Texas).

Quick Reference: Visiting W. B. Teagarden House

Address: 408 Dwyer Ave, San Antonio, TX 78204
Current Use: Private office (Torres Law Firm)
Public Access: Exterior viewing only, from the sidewalk
Tour Availability: No regular public interior tours; occasional inclusion in local heritage or walking tours
Tickets: Not required for exterior viewing
[Historic Status: Recorded Texas Historic Landmark (Texas Portal to History)](#historic-status:-recorded-texas-historic-landmark-(texas-portal-to-history))

Historical and Architectural Overview

Early History

Constructed in 1903 for William Baker Teagarden, a prominent attorney and judge, the W. B. Teagarden House serves as a physical testament to San Antonio’s growth in the early 20th century. It stands as one of the few remaining historic homes along Dwyer Avenue, once lined with grand residences (Texas Historical Commission). The house’s history is intertwined with the city’s evolution from a Spanish colonial outpost to a thriving urban center shaped by waves of immigration and economic expansion.

Architectural Features

The W. B. Teagarden House is a striking example of Queen Anne architecture, featuring:

Two-story brick-over-frame construction
Pyramidal roof with gables and dormers
L-shaped floor plan
Projecting front entrance bay
Wraparound porches on both levels
Ornate woodwork and decorative trim

A Texas Historical Medallion and marker provide a concise account of the house’s significance (Bexar-Co_WB-Teagarden-House.pdf). The structure exemplifies the adaptation of high-style Victorian influences to local materials and climate.

Context within King William Historic District

Situated within the esteemed King William Historic District, the Teagarden House contributes to a neighborhood renowned for its Victorian, Greek Revival, and Italianate mansions. The district, established in the late 19th century by German immigrants and San Antonio’s elite, was designated a city historic district in 1968 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 (TSHA King William Historic District). The area is known for its tree-lined avenues, art galleries, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Practical Information

Current Access and Hours

Interior Access: The W. B. Teagarden House is not open for regular public tours. The interior is accessible only for business purposes or by special arrangement.
Exterior Viewing: The house and its historical marker can be viewed at any time from the public sidewalk (Texas Portal to History).
Tickets: No ticket or fee required for exterior viewing.

Special Events and Guided Tours

At times, the Teagarden House may be included as a stop on local history or walking tours organized by heritage groups. For updates on public access or special event availability, consult the San Antonio Visitor’s Guide or contact local historical organizations.

Directions and Accessibility

By Car: Easily accessible via Dwyer Avenue—minutes from the River Walk and downtown hotels.
Parking: Limited street parking is available; public lots are nearby, especially near the River Walk and Blue Star Arts Complex.
Public Transit: Served by VIA Metropolitan Transit routes with nearby stops.
Wheelchair Access: Exterior sidewalks are accessible; the house’s interior access is restricted.
Amenities: No restrooms or visitor facilities on-site; nearby cafes and attractions provide amenities.

What to See: Architectural Highlights

Queen Anne exterior: Admire the detailed brickwork, porches, and rooflines.
Historic marker: Read about the structure’s history and architectural significance.
Neighborhood context: Enjoy the surrounding King William Historic District’s architectural diversity and walkable streetscape.
Photography: Exterior photography is permitted from the sidewalk; morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting.

Nearby Attractions

Expand your visit with these San Antonio historical sites and cultural venues:

King William Historic District: Victorian mansions, art galleries, and cafes (thetouristchecklist.com)
San Antonio River Walk: Iconic pedestrian waterway with shops and restaurants
Blue Star Arts Complex: Contemporary art galleries and eateries
The Alamo & San Antonio Missions: UNESCO World Heritage Sites, easily reached by car or public transit

For more information on local attractions, see Happy to Be Texas: San Antonio Historical Sites and the San Antonio Visitor’s Guide.

Preservation Status and Community Engagement

The Teagarden House’s historical designation ensures its preservation as part of San Antonio’s cultural heritage. Efforts by the San Antonio Conservation Society and the Office of Historic Preservation support the maintenance and restoration of such landmarks (San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation; San Antonio Conservation Society). Owners of historic properties in the area benefit from technical guidance, financial incentives, and community workshops focused on maintaining architectural integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the W. B. Teagarden House open for interior tours?
A: No, the house is a private office and not open for regular public tours. Exterior viewing is permitted from the sidewalk.

Q: Are there any tickets or fees to visit?
A: No tickets or fees are required for exterior viewing.

Q: Can the house be included in a guided tour?
A: Occasionally, it is featured on walking tours or during special heritage events. Check the San Antonio Visitor’s Guide for updates.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Public sidewalks around the property are accessible; the interior is not open to the public.

Q: Where should I park?
A: Limited on-street parking is available; public parking lots are a short walk away.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early spring (February–April) and late fall (October–November) offer mild weather and city festivals (Travellers Worldwide).
Safety and Etiquette: Remain on public sidewalks and respect the property’s private office status.
Enhance Your Experience: Use walking tour apps, attend heritage events, or explore nearby museums and historic sites.

San Antonio Heritage Tourism: Other Highlights

San Antonio’s heritage tourism landscape includes:

King William Historic District: Daily walking tours; Victorian mansions and boutiques
La Villita Historic Arts Village: Artisan shops and galleries (TSHA Handbook)
San Antonio Museum of Art: Historic brewery complex with global art collections
Witte Museum: Science and regional history exhibits
Casa Navarro State Historic Site: Home of Texas patriot José Antonio Navarro
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: Spanish colonial missions and scenic trails
The Alamo: Legendary site of Texas independence (TSHA Handbook)
San Antonio River Walk: 15-mile network through downtown and historic districts

For full details, see thetouristchecklist.com.

Visual and Interactive Resources

Virtual Experience: View images and documents related to the Teagarden House via the Texas Portal to History.
Suggested Media: High-quality exterior photos; interactive maps of heritage sites

Summary and Planning Your Visit

The W. B. Teagarden House is a significant piece of San Antonio’s architectural and historical heritage. While interior access is restricted, its Queen Anne façade and historical marker offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Enhance your visit by exploring the King William Historic District, the River Walk, and other nearby sites. For the latest on special events and heritage tours, consult the San Antonio Visitor’s Guide and consider downloading the Audiala app for guided experiences and updates.