Celebrate the
TEXAN
Within You
WASHINGTON ON THE BRAZOS
STATE HISTORIC SITE
I
came
a
“
VISITOR
and left a
TEXAN.”
Photo courtesy of Washington On The Brazos State Historic Site
WRITTEN BY JEANNE ALBRECHT
T
he quote to the left says it all, from a recent visitor
to Washington On The Brazos State Historic Site.
Whether you are a native Texan or a Texan wannabe, Washington On The Brazos (WOB) will enrich your
Texas soul.
This is one of Texas’ most significant historic sites, where
you can stand on the same ground walked by the
heroic forefathers who shaped our state. Their stories
are told at four entertaining attractions within the 293acre park.
INDEPENDENCE HALL
Stand on the very spot Where Texas Became Texas in
1836. It was here that 59 men, including Sam Houston,
met to determine the fate of Texas.
Elected from across the settlements, these delegates
risked their lives to gather in an unfinished frame
building – the only structure in Washington large
enough for the group.
While the Alamo was under siege by General Santa
Anna, the delegates labored for 17 days and declared
Texas independent from Mexico, penned a new
constitution and organized an interim government,
giving birth to a new nation -- the Republic of Texas!
Photos by Kathlyn Dragna Photography
BARRINGTON LIVING HISTORY FARM
Many places claim to “bring history to life” but here you
can literally experience the sights, sounds, and smells of
the 1850’s. Barrington Farm was the family home of Dr.
Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas.
You’ll see clothing of the past on park rangers who
demonstrate 19th century methods and tools for
planting, cultivating and harvesting the fields. You’ll see
the same breeds of animals that were used in the 1850s,
and learn how they were worked and cared for.
Photo by Kathlyn Dragna Photography
You can also tour two slave cabins, a kitchen building,
smokehouse, cotton house and barn that made this
farm self-sufficient.
If you’d like to
completely immerse
yourself in the past, you
are invited to participate
in farm chores!
Photo by Kathlyn Dragna Photography
Photo by Kathlyn Dragna Photography
BARRINGTON LIVING HISTORY FARM (above)
STAR OF THE REPUBLIC MUSEUM
The Republic of Texas proudly but precariously existed
as an independent nation for ten years, from 1836 to
1846. The Star of the Republic Museum tells these unique
stories of Texas through exhibits, tours, programs, videos
and web activities. You’ll enjoy learning of the first
Texans (Native Americans), the European explorers, and
the American settlers and soldiers who fought for Texas
independence.
Don’t miss the Museum’s new Pioneer Playroom!
The simulated Texas frontier homestead helps visitors
understand the role of pioneers through role-playing
and interactive experiences.
Photo by Kathlyn Dragna Photography
VISITOR CENTER
In the Gallery of the Republic you’ll find more intriguing
displays and artifacts of Washington’s role in Texas
history. The delightful Washington Emporium Gift Shop in
this building offers a wide variety of everything Texan,
along with snacks and cold drinks. D
WASHINGTON ON THE BRAZOS
STATE HISTORIC SITE
Photo by Kathlyn Dragna Photography
Photo courtesy of Star of the Republic Museum
STAR OF THE REPUBLIC MUSEUM (above) - VISITOR CENTER (below)
23400 Park Road 12, Washington, TX, 77880, about halfway
between Brenham and Navasota. From State Highway 105,
follow either FM 912 or FM 1155 to Park Road 12.
www.wheretexasbecametexas.org
(936) 878-2214
Photos courtesy of Washington On The Brazos State Historic Site