The kettle house

In the late 1960s, Texas welder Clayton E. Stokley embarked on a truly unique project that would leave a lasting mark on West Galveston Island. Leveraging his access to scrap metal from his job at a tank manufacturing plant, Stokley purchased tons of discarded steel and metal parts, determined to create something extraordinary.

The result was the Kettle House—an eccentric, metal-clad structure built almost entirely from repurposed materials. For over 50 years, this quirky landmark has stood out against the more traditional homes and buildings of the island, a testament to creativity, resourcefulness, and a DIY spirit.

The Kettle House reflects not just an innovative use of industrial scraps but also a piece of local culture and history, embodying a blend of rugged Texas grit and artistic flair. It’s a reminder that sometimes, what others see as waste can become a lasting work of art and an iconic fixture in a community.