William Walsh Honored with Interpretive Marker at Walsh Boat Landing

On Sunday, March 23, at 11 a.m., Austin Parks and Recreation will join City officials and the family of William Walsh to unveil an interpretive marker at Walsh Boat Landing, located at 1600 Scenic Drive. This event will celebrate the remarkable legacy of William Walsh, a pioneer whose contributions shaped Texas history. All are welcome to attend this outdoor gathering, and attendees are encouraged to dress comfortably for the occasion.

The Walsh Boat Landing, named in his honor in 1957, was originally part of Walsh’s homestead. He once held vast land holdings along the Colorado River, encompassing areas that now include Tarrytown and Davenport Ranch.

William Walsh’s journey began in Limerick and County Kerry, Ireland. He emigrated during the Great Famine and later served in the British Navy before coming to the United States. In the years leading up to the Civil War, Walsh enlisted in the Union Navy. Following the war, he played a key role in building federal forts across Texas, such as Fort McKavett and Fort Clark.

Walsh also made significant contributions to Texas architecture, producing lime for structures throughout the state. His lime kilns, located in Austin, Round Rock, and McNeil, were pivotal to his success as one of Texas’s largest lime manufacturers during its peak. Notably, his company supplied materials for iconic buildings including the Texas State Capitol, St. Edward’s University, and St. Mary’s Cathedral in Austin. The purity of Walsh’s lime earned international recognition, winning the Gold Medal at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair.

The unveiling ceremony is a moment to reflect on Walsh’s legacy and the lasting impact of his work, which continues to be celebrated in Austin and beyond.