THE KATY HOUSE
About Us
The Katy House's Italianate exterior is graced by an arched portico set over the bay-windowed living room. Elegant Georgian columns reflect the home’s early 1900’s origin. Long-leaf pine floors, pocket doors, and a graceful staircase accent the handsome interior. The Katy House Bed & Breakfast is a hidden gem of timeless architecture located in downtown Smithville, Texas.
With six rooms, each of which features a unique layout, design and furnishing, our guests have the luxury of handpicking the room or private cottage that best fit their needs. Katy House guests have the option to experience a family-style breakfast in the main dining room with fellow guests or in the privacy of their room.
The Katy House is a traditional Bed & Breakfast with the belief that those who need to recharge, experience the best of a small town, or connect with a loved one, find themselves walking through our doors! There's an abundance of love and peace in this home! Once you're here, then you'll know what we mean.
2023 Winner: Best Bed & Breakfast by Bastrop County Best Contest
2023 1st Runner-up: Best Hotel by Bastrop County Best Contest
2022 Best Breakfast in Texas by The Texas Bed & Breakfast Association.
2021 Runner-up: Best Hotel by Bastrop County's Best of Contest
To say this was a surprise would be an understatement!
A huge thanks to everyone that voted! We're truly humbled.
History of 201 Ramona
Since 1909, 201 Ramona has been a historic Texas landmark where each owner’s heart for service has been woven throughout its century-long history.
J.H. Chancellor, profound influencer on Smithville in its early development through real estate and home construction, built 201 Ramona (now known as The Katy House) as his private residence. Also, owner of the local mercantile store, Mr. Chancellor is remembered for his devotion to good service and as a generous businessman who frequently and anonymously gave to those in need. In 1941, railroad division surgeon, Dr. Stephens purchased the house establishing the ground floor as his clinic. To this day, many locals still refer to the house as Dr. Stephen's office. By 1980, the home was even occupied by The Bastrop County Women’s Shelter as an office and clothing warehouse.
In 1994, 201 Ramona became known as The Katy House Bed & Breakfast by founders Bruce & Sallie Blalock. The house is named for the historical “Katy” railroad line (the Missouri Kansas & Texas Railroad) which was built in the area to continue service to Houston and the Port of Galveston.
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Smithville, Texas Bed & Breakfast
Beginning in 1994, Sallie & Bruce Blalock were visionaries for guest service. Pouring twenty years of themselves into The Katy House, they created a one-of-a-kind bed & breakfast as a memorable getaway. Second-generation owners, Linda & Stu Leibowitz, followed in the Blalock’s footsteps investing their heart and soul in all the fine home details and tailored care for each guest. For five years, Linda’s effortless eye for classic design elevated the property with her soothing color palettes and antique furniture selections. Each space was hand touched by Linda’s design while Stu’s easy-going charm and talent graced the kitchen. In 2019, Tiffany & Joe Prior purchased The Katy House to carry on their legacy and mission of serving others.
“My only goal is to honor their mission of authentically providing a comfortable place for others to find rest, reprieve, and connection. The truth is The Katy House is my dream career. Smithville is my dream community. Neither were in my ‘planned’ life trajectory, but it's funny how curveballs can end up being the best ones for you. Mountains were moved for this opportunity to be possible, so daily, I’m humbled to have been given a chance to be part of this home's history.” ~ Tiffany
