Tennessee native Rees P. Sweeny (1856-1937) built this raised Victorian house in 1896, the year Angleton became the seat of government for Brazoria County. Tax collector for the county from the early 1890s to 1902, Sweeny moved here as part of the transition from the earlier county seat of Brazoria. Featuring a central hall plan and sturdily built on high ground, the house has often served as a refuge during local floods and hurricanes.