This house replaced the 1845 log cabin of Robert A. Terrell (1820-1881), a pioneer settler for whom the town was named. Built for him in 1864, it is one of the few remaining octagon-shaped houses in Texas. Since 1897 it has been associated with a succession of schools, including Texas Military College and Southwestern Christian College, which moved here in 1950. It has served as home for college presidents, a dining hall, classroom building, and student union. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1962