HERITAGE ASSOCIATION
For one day only, on Saturday, May 3, the stunning historic home “Nine Gables” will open its doors as part of the 50th Anniversary Home Tour hosted by the Heritage Association of San Marcos.
This remarkable Prairie Style home, located at 702 Burleson Street, has a rich history that spans more than a century, filled with fascinating stories of the families who lived there. Built in 1890 by Captain James Gray Storey and his wife, Sarah, the home has been lovingly maintained and will be a highlight of this year’s tour.
Captain Storey (18301910) was a veteran of the Civil War and an influential leader in Hays County, serving as district and county clerk (1856-1861), county judge (1865-1867) and a member of the Texas legislature (1880-1883). The home changed ownership in the 1920s when it was sold to Mrs. V.T. Jennings, a florist who operated her business from the half-basement, where her handwritten notes from 1932 can still be seen on the walls today.
Mrs. Jennings’ daughter, Cleo, and her friend Laura Ramsey, spent hours on the home’s inviting front porch, watching young men drive by — since they weren’t allowed to get into cars, the porch became a courtship spot. When Laura had the opportunity to purchase the home in 1964, she was thrilled. She affectionately named it “Nine Gables,” despite an architect friend counting only seven.
Today, “Nine Gables” retains much of its original charm, including the living room, dining room, parlor and front bedroom, and featuring the original tall windows. The hallway boasts two bathrooms — one for guests and one for grandchildren. The guest house has been transformed into a pool house and occasional guest quarters. Its current owners are Robin and Ken Kelley.
Other fascinating tour details include:
• “Featherbed Farm,” a luxurious chicken coop, originally built as a dog kennel by the previous owner, Dr. Simmons. The structure was carefully designed to complement the home’s architecture and now provides a charming space for the Kelleys’ hens.
• A unique front gate, repurposed from a headboard from the original Crystal River Inn on Hopkins Street.
• A beautiful stainedglass window in the living room, saved from a fire at the Presbyterian Church.
• A French chandelier from 1890, the same year the home was built, purchased by the current owners, Robin and Ken Kelly. The dining room chandelier is a Kelley family heirloom.
The home was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1970, solidifying its place in San Marcos history.
“This house belongs to God. We are just taking care of it until the next caretakers come along,” said Robin and Ken Kelley, reflecting on their deep appreciation for the home’s legacy.
PRESERVING SAN MARCOS’ HISTORY – GET YOUR HOME TOUR TICKETS TODAY!
Presented by the Heritage Association of San Marcos, this year’s Golden Legacy Tour of Homes offers a rare opportunity to step inside seven of the city’s most treasured homes plus Crookwood Gardens. Proceeds from the tour support HASM’s mission to preserve the historic districts of San Marcos for future generations.
“The Home Tour is one of the most impactful ways to celebrate and support historic preservation in San Marcos,” said HASM President Renee Graham. “By attending, you’re helping protect the charm and heritage that make this city unique.”
“Nine Gables is a home filled with history, charm, and countless stories,” said 2025 Home Tour Chair Shannon James. “This year’s tour is an unforgettable opportunity to experience its beauty and step back in time.”
EVENT DETAILS & TICKET INFORMATION
The Home Tour begins at the Charles S. Cock House Museum in Veramendi Plaza (400 E. Hopkins Street). Purchase tickets online at HeritageSanMarcos. org. Tickets are $25 in advance ($30 day of the tour). Follow the Heritage Association of San Marcos on Facebook for more previews and photos of featured homes.
Photo provided by Heritage Association of San Marcos
