As one of the oldest buildings in downtown Houston, the Julia Ideson Building is a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty. In honor of Women's History Month, City of Houston’s HTV intern Vanessa Wilcox takes us inside this iconic building to explore its timeless charm and the remarkable story behind its name.
The building is named after Julia Ideson, the first librarian of the Houston Public Library, who served from 1903 to 1945. Julia Ideson was a trailblazer in her field, helping to expand library services to the community, particularly advocating for library access for underserved groups. Her legacy lives on not only in the building that bears her name but in the lasting impact she had on Houston's cultural and educational landscape.
During the tour, Vanessa hears from Shawn Kuehn, Special Events Manager at Houston Public Library, who shares insights into the history of the building, its stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and the critical role it has played in the community over the years.
The tour, captured and edited by Vanessa Wilcox, showcases the rich history of both the Julia Ideson Building and the legacy of women like Julia Ideson, who continue to inspire future generations. This Women’s History Month, it’s a perfect time to walk in and take a tour. The building is open to the public Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. So, come and reflect on how far we’ve come and the trailblazing women who paved the way.
Plan your visit today and experience the history and beauty of the Julia Ideson Building in person!
Tour the Julia Ideson Building
As one of the oldest buildings in downtown Houston, the Julia Ideson Building is a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty. In honor of Women's History Month, City of Houston’s HTV intern Vanessa Wilcox takes us inside this iconic building to explore its timeless charm and the remarkable story behind its name.
The building is named after Julia Ideson, the first librarian of the Houston Public Library, who served from 1903 to 1945. Julia Ideson was a trailblazer in her field, helping to expand library services to the community, particularly advocating for library access for underserved groups. Her legacy lives on not only in the building that bears her name but in the lasting impact she had on Houston's cultural and educational landscape.
During the tour, Vanessa hears from Shawn Kuehn, Special Events Manager at Houston Public Library, who shares insights into the history of the building, its stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and the critical role it has played in the community over the years.
The tour, captured and edited by Vanessa Wilcox, showcases the rich history of both the Julia Ideson Building and the legacy of women like Julia Ideson, who continue to inspire future generations. This Women’s History Month, it’s a perfect time to walk in and take a tour. The building is open to the public Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. So, come and reflect on how far we’ve come and the trailblazing women who paved the way.
Plan your visit today and experience the history and beauty of the Julia Ideson Building in person!
Shot and Edited by Vanessa Wilcox