Front portion built in mid-1800s. Owned until 1845 by Stephen Townsend, member of prominent family and veteran of Battle of San Jacinto. In 1837, as first county sheriff, he took part in court held under famous oak (60 yds. W). In 1902 owner Edward Metzke attached second structure to first one; also added porch. Former State Representative Homer Koliba and wife Bernice (a descendant of S. Townsend) have owned house since 1951. RTHL - 1971