Jowell House

This fortress-style home was built in Palo Pinto Country, Texas, to protect a pioneer family from dangers in the wilderness. After George Jowell's wood cabin was burned by Indians, he designed a home of cut limestone and sandstone with rifle slits above the door. The family could find safety by climbing a ladder to the second floor and entering through a trap door, pulling the ladder in behind them. Exterior stairs were added after Indian attacks ceased. A well, cistern and springhouse nearby provided water and cool storage during the summer heat.

Lubbock, Texas · United States