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Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historical
Park
One of the hidden treasures of the Texas parks
system is the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historical Park. "While
most Texans are familiar with such historic shrines as the Alamo and the
San Jacinto Monument, many don't know about the place where our courageous
forefathers gathered in an unfinished frame building to declare Texas
an independent and sovereign nation even as Mexican troops attacked the
Alamo," said Tom Scaggs, park manager.
A $6 million facelift is now bringing attention
to this formerly overlooked park; the park now includes a new state-of-the-art
Visitors Center, interpretive trail, $1 million in roadwork, and additional
improvements to come will elevate this park to a new status. The 10,000-square-foot
Visitors Center traces the history of this site through interactive displays.
Travelers can learn more about the 59 men who gathered here on a cold
March day in 1836.
Near the center, the Star of the Republic
Museum, built in the shape of a star, highlights the history of the Republic
of Texas with exhibits and special collections. An exhibit titled "Childhood
in Texas" features antique dolls, toys, and other items from the
Eleanor Glenn Hanover Nance collection. Exhibits also cover all aspects
of commerce during the 19th century, including displays on the general
store, blacksmithing, steamboats, and carpentry.
The park also boasts an interpretive trail
which winds from Independence Hall, a replica of the original building
where the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence took place,
to the historic Washington townsite. Work at the park will continue for
the next year with the replication of Barrington Farm. The homestead of
Anson Jones, the fourth and last president of the Republic of Texas, will
include a two-story home that is being relocated from its present site
behind the museum to the farm. An orchard, demonstration crop acreage,
carriage shed, corn crib, kitchen, and slave quarters will also be found
at the site when it opens next spring.
To reach Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historical
Park from Brenham, take TX 105 northeast of the city for 14 miles, then
turn right on FM 912 to reach the park.
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