Norton-Orgain House

Built about 1872 by Edward R.A. Buckles, this I-plan vernacular house exhibits Classical and Victorian detailing. Its two-story gallery features Doric columns on the ground level, which contrast with the Victorian turned wood columns and balusters located above. Residing here only a short time, Edward Buckles sold the house in 1873 to Colonel Nimrod Lindsay Norton (d. 1903) and his wife Mary (Hall). Colonel Norton, a Confederate veteran, was active in agricultural activities during his residence in Salado and was a charter member of the local grange. He was also a member of the Capitol Building Commission, and donated granite for the Capitol exterior from a quarry he co-owned in Burnet County. In 1882, Colonel Norton sold the property to John and Kate (Galvin) Orgain, prominent educators in Salado for many years. John served as County School Superintendant; Kate taught at Salado College and Thomas Arnold High School and was a published author. The Orgains resided here until 1907. Used primarily as a residence by subsequent property owners, the house has also been used as a boardinghouse and inn. It remains a prominent local landmark. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1991