Antique Carousel
One of eight that exist in Texas and the only example of a C.W. Parker Carousel with Herschell-Spillman horses. Manufactured prior to 1910, it is one of the few known examples of a carousel specifically built for a traveling carnival. Open by reservation. Call 979-337-7250. |
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Brenham Heritage Museum
The Museum was built in 1915 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 105 South Market St., Brenham. 979-830-8445. www.BrenhamHeritageMuseum.org |
Burton Cotton Gin & Museum
Built in 1914, the Burton Farmers Gin stands as a monument to King Cotton and is the only one of its kind in the U.S. Guided by the Smithsonian Institution, The National Trust for Historic Preservation and other advisors, dedicated volunteers restored the 1925 Bessemer twin-type IV oil engine that still powers the gin. 307 North Main, Burton. 979-289-3378. www.CottonGinMuseum.org |
Burton Depot and Mt. Zion Cemetery
The Burton Heritage Society, organized in 1973, maintains and cares for these two historic sites. Both have Texas Historical Commission historical markers. At this time both sites are open by appointment. 979-289-2031. www.burtonheritagesociety.org |
Burton Friends & Neighbors, Inc.
This organization supports the Burton Parks project. P.O. Box 455, Burton. Smithgangof6@hotmail.com
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George Bush Presidential Library & Museum
1000 George Bush Drive West, College Station. Exhibits include replicas of the White House Situation room, White House Press room and an oval office. 979-691-4000. BushLibrary.tamu.edu |
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Chappell Hill Historic District
A Visitor’s Center in the restored Providence Baptist Church Parsonage, the Museum displaying historical exhibits and the Swearingen folk art collection, the Rock Store, century-old churches, Masonic Cemetery, and the oldest continually operating bank in America are here. 9220 Poplar St., Chappell Hill. 979-836-6033. www.ChappellHillMuseum.org |
Downtown Main Street District
Recognized as a National Register District, Brenham’s downtown buildings reflect the town’s early history and charm, and feature over 40 shops and restaurants. 1-888-BRENHAM (273-6426). www.DowntownBrenham.com |
Heritage Home Tours
Tour Brenham’s oldest house. The 1843 Giddings-Wilkin House is beautifully decorated with many original furnishings. Then, stroll the veranda at the exquisitely restored Giddings Stone Mansion, built in 1869 and a prime example of 19th Century Texas architecture. Both properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 2203 Century Circle, Brenham. 979-836-1690. www.GiddingsStoneMansion.com |
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Historical Markers
History buffs will not want to miss the chance to see over 120 historic markers, including where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed, where Sam Houston was baptized, where a rare 1800's cotton gin is preserved and still operates today, where picturesque churches are tucked away, where legendary Texas heroes are buried...and many more historical markers located in Washington County. Illustrated guide available at the Chamber of Commerce, 314 South Austin St., Brenham. |
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John P. Coles Homes in Independence
Independence Historical Society offers tours of two of the earliest homes in Washington County, as well as a rural one-room schoolhouse. John P. Coles House provides an opportunity to experience Colonial Texas life. Tours on selected March and April weekends; other times by appointment. Admission fee. For information call Lanella Gray at 979-830-0230. www.IndependenceTX.com |
Old Baylor Park at Windmill Hill
On the west side of FM 50, ruins mark the site of the original Baylor University and its female department, one of the best places in the state to enjoy springtime bluebonnets. Adjacent to the John P. Coles homes, this park features picnic tables and a playground area. On the east side of FM 50 (next to the Antique Rose Emporium), interpretive signage and a reconstructed bell tower mark the archeological ruins of the Baylor campus for males. A well-marked walking and/or driving trail with 19 interpretive signs relates the history of the village of Independence. 979-830-0230. www.IndependenceTX.com or www.Baylor.edu/About |
Seward Plantation
John Seward came to Texas in 1832 with his father, who was one of Stephen F. Austin's first colonists, and began building his plantation home in 1850. Owned by family members since its foundation was laid, the gracious home displays many original furnishings. Grounds include log slave quarters and barns. 10,005 FM 390 East, Brenham. 979-830-5388. www.IndependenceTX.com |
Texas Baptist Historical Center-Museum
Organized in 1839, this is an integral part of one of Texas’ most historic sites. Sam Houston was converted and baptized in this church in 1854. 10,405 FM 50, Independence. 979-836-5117. |
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| The Birthplace of Texas |
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
The 293-acre park is located on the original town site of Washington, which served as the capital of the Republic of Texas. The complex features a state-of-the-art Visitors Center with hands-on interactive exhibits that walk visitors through the birth of a new nation - Texas. The Washington Emporium, located in the Visitors Center, is a premiere Texas gift shop. The Complex includes a Conference Center, Education Center and Pavilions that are available to rent for special occasions. Open year-round, the Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas with tables, grills, shelters, all free of charge from 8am until dark. Guided tours and programs are available year round. Call for admission fees. Stroll the Park trails where Texas was born. This historic site showcases Independence Hall where the Texas Declaration of Independence was drafted and signed on March 2, 1836. 936-878-2214. www.BirthplaceOfTexas.com |
Barrington Living History Farm
Explore the home of Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas. Experience sights, sounds and smells of this southern cotton plantation that features historic animal breeds and heirloom crops. Daily life on this working 1850’s farm comes alive as interpreters in period clothing demonstrate daily chores and skills. 936-878-2213. www.BirthplaceOfTexas.com |
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Star of the Republic Museum
Experience the saga of the Republic of Texas which, from 1836 to 1846, existed as a separate and independent nation. Through interactive exhibits, audiovisual presentations and educational programs, the Museum presents the experiences of ordinary Texans as well as extraordinary events. Award-winning exhibits provide a comprehensive and unparalleled look at the people and places that shaped the character of this unique nation. 936-878-2461 x 234. www.StarMuseum.org |
| Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is located between Brenham and Navasota off Hwy. 105 on FM 1155. Special programs can be arranged for groups of 20 or more. 936-878-2214. www.BirthplaceOfTexas.com |
To view several sample tours of things to do, dowload  Sample Tours and don't forget to visit our Lodging page for a general selection of accommodations.
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