In an archived letter, dated Sept 3, 1901, from the Tau Chapter House Committee Chairman, George P. Garrison wrote the Worthy Grand Scribe, Herbert Martin, in Danville, Virginia that a "beautiful building lot" within two blocks of the University had been purchased for $1,250. That site was 203 West 19th, and they proceeded to build the original house on the site for a total cost of about $8,750. There were only five members at the time, but many on the UT faculty were Kappa Sigmas.

In another archived letter dated, May 12, 1902, apparently sent to all Tau Kappa Sigmas, it was reported that the a contract had been let for $5,500 to build the two story house. It had six bedrooms upstairs and two downstairs, and one bathroom to serve both floors. Each room would rent for $10 per month, and would be shared by two members. There was a note from a local bank for $5,500 and bonds were sold to some Alumni to finance the balance. This letter was signed by the Board of Trustees, i.e. George P. Garrison, T. U. Taylor, Frederic W. Simonds, James R. Bailey, and Killis Campbell.

It was reported that this house was torn down in 1931 and the new house built in its location. In 1971 the house at 203 West 19th was sold to the State of Texas, primarily due to a debt of $130,000 that had been rolled over for about fifteen years. Another house was purchased on San Gabriel, which was also sold, and another house was purchased by the Tau Trustees on West 26th Street, which is the location of the present Chapter House.

Address:

1002 W. 26th St.
Austin , TX 78705