Connally Mansion in River Oaks Hits Market for $9 Million

A piece of Texas history is now on the market for nearly $9 million.

The Houston estate of former Texas Governor John Connally Jr. has been listed in the prestigious River Oaks neighborhood for $8.99 million, or $1,068 per square foot, the Dallas Morning News reported. Compass’ Laura Sweeny has the listing.

Situated on about half an acre at 2411 River Oaks Boulevard, the mid-century modern estate spans nearly 8,500 square feet and includes five bedrooms and eight full bathrooms.

Built in the late 1950s by Houston architect Ernest Shult as his personal residence, the home’s design boasts high ceilings, stucco walls, and multiple roof sections.

The estate features a home office and study, an upstairs game room that opens onto an outdoor terrace, a poolside gym and a climate-controlled wine vault. The primary suite includes a marble bath with designated dressing rooms.

Inside, the home’s entryway and gallery lead to reception areas, with views of the southern lawn and northern pool terrace. Abundant off-street parking with a circular motor court and a separate gated driveway is also included.

A Texas Historical Commission plaque outside the home pays tribute to its rich history. John Connally, who served as Texas’ 39th governor from 1963 to 1969 and later as the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Nixon, moved into the home with his wife, Nellie, in 1969.

The Connallys sold the estate in 1984, after which it underwent several alterations, including a notable two-story addition. Connally passed away in 1993 at the age of 76.

Connally, who was in the car with President John F. Kennedy during the 1963 assassination in Dallas, was seriously wounded in the event.

Another prominent listing in the Oak River neighborhood includes a palatial estate at 3 Briarwood Court, which was listed in February for $27.5 million, or more than $1,800 per square foot, marking the area’s highest priced home in 2024

Houston’s top 10 priciest home sales in July outpaced the previous month by over 25 percent, according to data from the Houston Association of Realtors. The top-priced homes in July were listed at 3931 Inverness Drive for $15 million or $1,433 per square foot and 3244 Chevy Chase Drive for $10.5 million or $751 per square foot.

— Andrew Terrell