Family Home of Dr. R. K. Smoot
historical marker
In Austin, Texas, a historical marker stands at the family home of Dr. R. K. Smoot. This residence, also known as Flower Hill, is located at 1316 West 6th Street in Travis County. It served as the Smoot family home from 1876 to 1905. The house itself was constructed in 1877, utilizing bricks handmade on Barton Creek. Dr. R. K. Smoot, whose full name was Richard Kelley Smoot, was a pastor of the First Southern Presbyterian Church. His home holds significance for several historical events. In 1882, it was the site where the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary was founded. Later, in 1889, the home's parlor hosted the wedding of writer William Sidney Porter, known as O. Henry, and Miss Athol Estes. Dr. Smoot officiated the ceremony. The State Historical Survey Committee erected this marker in 1965. The Family Home of Dr. R. K. Smoot is recognized for its connection to both religious history and a notable literary figure in Austin.