About Us

Historic Beginnings

The City of Rockdale began making plans for a city hall in 1883. A bond election provided $10,000 to build a city hall.

In 1894, Rockdale began locating a site and commenced construction at the northeast corner of Burleson Street and Cameron Avenue in 1895. The two-story Romanesque Revival style structure was designed by Austin architect Arthur O. Watson constructed by R.G. Scott of San Antonio. Construction costs totaled $8,015 and the lot cost $1,850.

Over the past 125 years, the building has served a number of roles — many purposes for which the structure was not originally designed to accommodate — resulting in repeated remodeling of both the interior and exterior.

In 2020, a new ‘Vision’ for
‘The 1895’ was born …

The Mission

The Mission of Vision Historic Preservation Foundation is to enrich the arts & cultivate economic development by restoring the historic 1895 City Hall for the citizens, businesses, and visitors of Rockdale.

The Vision

Vision Historic Preservation Foundation will act as a catalyst in the revitalization of Downtown Rockdale by:

* Preserving the historical significance of The 1895.

* Creating new purpose and attracting businesses to the Development.

* Inspiring a culture of art, commerce and tourism for residents and visitors.

* Enhancing the success of all area businesses and enriching the lives of our citizens.

Learn more about the history of Rockdale and the 1895 City Hall building and news about our development.