Ashton Villa

Ashton Villa is a historic home located in Galveston, Texas, built in 1859 by Colonel James Moreau Brown. This Victorian Italianate structure is notable for being one of the first brick buildings in Texas, constructed using slave labor. During the Civil War, it served as headquarters for both the Confederate and Union armies. The villa is also significant for its connection to Juneteenth, as it was near the site where General Granger announced the emancipation of slaves in Texas. Today, it hosts annual celebrations honoring this historic event, making it a key site for both tourists and researchers interested in American history.