GREYSON - HOUSTON’S HISTORY HARE
Greyson, the Houston History Hare: How One Rabbit Hopped into a Social Media Influencer
In the heart of Houston’s historic district, where majestic oak trees whisper stories of the past and front porches still nod to neighborly charm, there’s a small figure making a big impression—one soft hop at a time. His name is Greyson. He isn’t just a rabbit. He’s a storyteller, an ambassador, a symbol of rescue and hope.
Greyson's journey began at Hieden Feed & Supply on Stuebner Airline, a place better known for chickens and ducks than for destiny. Among a group of 15 baby rabbits the store was trying to save, one small gray fluff with long fur bangs caught a passing eye. Twice. “You weren’t on my bucket list,” his future papa repeated, almost like a mantra—as if trying to reason with fate. But then the little rabbit curled gently under his neck, and the deal was sealed with a cuddle.
With a $35 adoption and a heart already stolen, Greyson came home. “He changed my world,” Paul Smithwyck said. Though not a textbook “rescue,” Greyson was saved all the same—and he’s been giving back ever since.
Outfitted in a kitten harness after a dramatic (but short-lived) rebellion, Greyson took to public life like a seasoned pro. Parks. Libraries. Museums. He wasn’t just a pet—he was a compassionate companion in motion. At one memorable outing near Minute Maid Park, fans clamored for a photo with the good-luck bunny because rubbing a whole rabbit is better than rubbing just a rabbit’s foot. The Astros won that night and other nights he visited. Coincidence? Maybe. But the legend grew.
Frank Billingsley, the beloved former KPRC meteorologist, even stopped to meet him on the streets one day. KPRC Amy Davis has a crush on him too. (KPRC pic)
Soon, Greyson was “walking his human” through venues they’d never imagined. Pink Floyd T-shirt? Check. Rabbit in tow? Even better. Tourists couldn’t resist taking selfies with them.
It wasn’t long before he was named the official ambassador of The Heritage Society—earning the title Greyson, Houston’s History Hare. Yes, a rabbit... not a hare. But the alliteration stuck for Houston’s history museum.
Today, Greyson is a beloved figure at weddings, library events, and even the iconic Art Car Parade. Twice, he’s been acknowledged by Mayor Whitmire in the lead car. He poses—when he feels like it—and has become a walking billboard for everything Houston stands for: diversity, resilience, creativity, and community.
But Greyson’s mission goes deeper. He's not just promoting historic preservation or public programming. He’s promoting rescue. “He’s living proof that a rescue pet doesn’t have to be traditional to be life-changing,” his person says.
One of the most striking images of Greyson came from a quiet moment—his silhouette perched on a historic porch, gazing out toward another preserved structure. The caption came easily: “Greyson visits our porches. You can too.” It sparked an idea for merchandise that would blend tourism, history, and heart—and perhaps support preservation efforts, all inspired by one very special bunny. He has a membership ID to three park destinations!
From cuddles at adoption to cuddles in the community, Greyson is more than an animal companion. He’s part mascot, part miracle—and all heart.
Click HERE to buy a Greyson Houston History Hare t-shirt to support our Heritage Cats.
Learn more about his favorite animal rescue group - Rescued Pets Movement HERE.
