The Johnson Home, Austin, Texas
historical marker
In Austin, Travis County, stands The Johnson Home, recognized by a historical marker erected in 1966 by the State Historical Survey Committee. This significant structure was built in 1858 by Charles Johnson, a Swedish immigrant. Johnson constructed the home using native stone sourced from his own quarry and lime kiln, both located near the Colorado River. The house features walls that are eighteen inches thick. Its original design included two distinct sections, connected by a stone-paved breezeway. In 1924, the property was acquired by the American Legion, Travis Post 76, to serve as its permanent home. Following this acquisition, the open breezeway was enclosed, and a long porch with six Ionic columns was added to the building. The Johnson Home illustrates early local construction methods and the contributions of Swedish immigrants to Austin's development.