Fulton Mansion- Rockport, TX

Lovers of Second Empire architecture, rejoice! Fulton Mansion is a Gulf Coast Victorian beauty fresh off a 3.4 million dollar renovation that has her looking positively radiant. 

Built in 1877 by George Fulton, this home is nestled among majestic oaks in the front, and has a divine view of Aransas Bay in the back. Or maybe its the other way around. Both sides of the house look great.  This is no brick fronted suburban house, with siding around the rear. It is full on fancy. This house was built with indoor plumbing, central heating, gas lighting and flush toilets, which was far from standard in 1877.

You can wander the grounds for free, but it is well worth the price of admission to tour the inside. Seriously, it’s $6, and there is a small museum included. The recent renovation has brought the first two floors back to life, as well as a utilitarian basement. You have the choice to take either a guided or self tour, and there are wandering docents should you have questions.

Like most historic houses, Fulton Mansion had a series of owners, and served a variety of purposes over the years, including as a restaurant and RV park. The palms in back, planted in 1952, are thankfully all that remains of the RV era, which lasted until 1974.  Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it looks like she will live out the rest of her days dignity intact.