History of the Coastal Breeze Cottage

---

The coastal breeze cottage was built in 1871 for Walter and Caroline Ansell. Its is a five-bay-wide center-hall gulf coast cottage. Walter was a Civil War veteran and he established the Texas Ice Company, which shipped ice from Maine and Massachusetts to Galveston. This home was a 1900 Storm Survivor. As a result, parts of the island was lifted and the sea wall was built.Part of the home was given to his son in the early 1900s. Original foundation bricks were used for the walkways and back fountain. The house has seen several owners since then but in the early 2000s, it was partially restored to its early American design. It has been featured on the cover of Houston House & Home and was featured on the Galveston Historical Homes Tour. 

In 2022, Michael and Ashley Cordray from the television show "Restoring Galveston" bought and restored the Ansell house to its former glory. It has the best of both worlds - the Historic home charm but with all of the modern amenities such as a chef's kitchen, private pool, new central air-conditioning, Smart TVs and super fast WIFI! Come and see why this is a top galveston beach house rental with a private pool!

Location is everything, and Summerwind Cottage delivers. Just minutes from the island’s most beloved attractions—from the Pleasure Pier to The Strand—guests are perfectly positioned to explore Galveston’s coastal culture. Walk to beloved restaurants like The Spot or simply unwind by your own heated, private pool.

Originally built for Richard Stelter in April 1926, the home once stood on a multi-acre estate spanning from Avenue Q ½ through 31st Street. Nearly a century later, its spirit endures—gracious, warm, and welcoming. The careful restoration pays tribute to the past while embracing the comforts of today: private heatred pool. central air conditioning, Smart TVs, and ultra-fast internet are just the beginning.

Summerwind Cottage is more than a vacation rental—it’s a celebration of heritage, hospitality, and the joy of coastal living. Whether you come for the beach, the history, or simply the stillness of the poolside afternoons, this charming retreat promises a stay to remember. Come and see why this property consistently earns 5-stars and is in the top 1% of all Airbnb stays.