Julia Ideson Building, Houston
The Julia Ideson Building, completed in 1926, showcases Houston's rich architectural heritage. Designed by architect Ralph Adams Cram in the Spanish Renaissance Revival style, the building was constructed to house the city's growing library needs, replacing the earlier Houston Lyceum and Carnegie Library.
Named in honor of Julia Ideson, who served as the head librarian from 1903 to 1945, the building reflects her dedication to public service and education. Under her leadership, the library system expanded significantly, and the Julia Ideson Building became a central hub for knowledge and community engagement.
In 1976, the main library functions were moved to the Jesse H. Jones Building, and the Ideson Building was repurposed to house the Houston Metropolitan Research Center, focusing on archival collections and local history. The building underwent restoration to preserve its historic features, including murals painted during the Great Depression under the Works Progress Administration.
Its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a cherished landmark in downtown Houston.
Named in honor of Julia Ideson, who served as the head librarian from 1903 to 1945, the building reflects her dedication to public service and education. Under her leadership, the library system expanded significantly, and the Julia Ideson Building became a central hub for knowledge and community engagement.
In 1976, the main library functions were moved to the Jesse H. Jones Building, and the Ideson Building was repurposed to house the Houston Metropolitan Research Center, focusing on archival collections and local history. The building underwent restoration to preserve its historic features, including murals painted during the Great Depression under the Works Progress Administration.
Its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a cherished landmark in downtown Houston.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Houston. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Julia Ideson Building on Map
Sight Name: Julia Ideson Building
Sight Location: Houston, USA (See walking tours in Houston)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Houston, USA (See walking tours in Houston)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Houston, Texas
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Founded in 1836 by entrepreneurial brothers Augustus and John Allen, Houston sprang up along the banks of Buffalo Bayou just months after Texas won independence from Mexico. The Allens marketed... view more
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Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles


