This story is part of Big Wonder–our series that explores uniquely larger-than-life stories in Texas.


At 1,100 square feet, the Victorian-style home is considered the most ornate small cottage in Texas. Built by John Slover, the cottage was a result of his first home being destroyed by The Great Hurricane of 1900. Slover, however, did not simply pack up and leave—instead, he spent the next eight years constructing this cottage from salvaged materials. The end result is a stunning architectural masterpiece.