Hidden in plain sight along South Main Street in Boerne, Texas, rests a small structure built of local stone where Confederate General Robert E. Lee often stayed while traveling between Camp Verde, 30 miles to the west, and Fort Sam Houston, 35 miles to the east in San Antonio.
Located at the corner of South Main and Evergreen Street and hugged by the Cibolo Creek, the small building at 525 South Main is all that remains of a once much larger complex, the O’Grady Inn.
After emigrating from Westport, Ireland, John G. O’Grady bought this land on May 10, 1859, eventually opening a travelers’ inn. During his frequent stays, O’Grady and Lee became quite friendly.
Built of local limestone, the surviving structure is a good example of 1860s Hill Country architecture. Hanging from the roof line, a sign written in faux old-timey script states, “Gen Robert E Lee Stayed Here.” There’s also a historical plaque at the property that explains its history.
Today, the structure sits on private property but is clearly marked and sits on a public street for easy viewing.