Robinson-Macken House
historical marker
The Robinson-Macken House is located in Austin, Travis County, Texas. Built in 1876 for Elizabeth and John Robinson Sr., this two-and-a-half-story house displays the Second Empire style with Italianate detailing. It features a distinctive mansard roof, projecting bay windows, and dormer windows. The house stands within Austin's original 1839 town plan, laid out by Edwin Waller. Eugene Robinson, a son of the original owners, acquired the house in 1902. Notably, between 1909 and 1912, he moved the entire house fifty feet north of its original site. Joe and Bridget Macken purchased the property in 1928, and it remained with their family until 1983. Both John Robinson and Joe Macken were prominent Austin community leaders, serving at different times as city aldermen and chiefs of the volunteer fire department. The Texas Historical Commission erected a historical marker here in 1986. The house was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. This site highlights Austin's architectural heritage and the civic engagement of its early residents.