Built about 1846 by Dr. Eli T. Merriman (1815-1867), Yale graduate, 1838 Texas settler. One of 3 San Marcos townsite owners. First physician in area. Later lived in Brownsville, Banquete, Corpus Christi. During Civil War joined Confederate army with 2 sons; one son was in Federal army. Son, Eli T., Jr., founded the Corpus Christi "Caller." Second home in San Marcos. Originally near Town Square. Built of hand-hewn timber. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965