Elisabet Ney Museum, Austin

Sculptor Elisabet Ney was one of Texas’ most colorful characters. Her restored home and studio exhibits the work of the first prominent sculptor in Texas as well as many of her personal belongings.

The first floor contains two large sculpture rooms, a small entranceway, and a parlor. Ney’s bedroom, which was seldom used (she usually slept outside in a hammock), is on the second floor, and a third-floor tower room, reached by a spiral staircase, was the study of Dr. Montgomery, Ney’s husband who made his home near Houston.

With its tower and stone columns, you may think this studio resembles a tiny European castle, but throughout the building are many Texas touches: bronze stars which decorate the balcony balustrade, cedar rails on the banister, and walls of native limestone. Hours: Wed–Sat 10–5, Sun 12–5. Admission: Free.

Location: 304 E. 44th St., Austin

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