Norton–Polk–Mathis House, San Antonio

The Norton–Polk–Mathis House, widely known as Villa Finale, stands as a historic treasure in San Antonio's King William Historical District. Constructed on one of the area's oldest sites, the property reflects a rich evolution of Texas architecture while embodying the vibrant history of its neighborhood.

The story began in 1869, when Russell C. Norton, a San Antonio merchant and Mayflower descendant, acquired three lots of land stretching from King William Street to the San Antonio River. In 1876, he began constructing the house, which underwent multiple remodels over the 19th century. These transformations included the addition of a second story, a Victorian gingerbread rear gallery, and eventually an Italian Renaissance Revival tower and porch, making the house a living timeline of architectural styles.

Through a succession of owners, the property fell into disrepair and was eventually used as a boarding residence until 1967. At that time, Walter Nold Mathis, a prominent civic leader, purchased the house. Mathis meticulously restored it to its original grandeur over two years, naming it Villa Finale as a testament to his intention to make it his final home. His efforts extended beyond his residence: Mathis acquired and stabilized 16 additional properties in the King William neighborhood, earning him the title of "father of the modern King William."

In 1971, the Norton–Polk–Mathis House was recognized as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and became a contributing property to the King William Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Upon Mathis’s death in 2005, he bequeathed the home to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Today, the house operates as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its layered history and the architectural heritage of Texas. Tours are available on a limited basis, preserving Mathis's legacy and the unique charm of Villa Finale.