Birthplace of Texas to Undergo Extensive Renovations for Enhanced Visitor Experience
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is undergoing an epic renovation to create an enhanced visitor experience. The renovations will better interpret the site’s important history through updated gallery exhibits, outdoor interpretive installations, and compelling high tech interactive displays. This project will link all the site’s venues and locations into a single cohesive experience. Construction will be phased over two years, with partial site closure beginning Fall 2023 and continuing into 2025. The grounds, Independence Hall and Barrington Plantation will remain open.
Renovation projects include:
The Star of the Republic Museum will provide insight into the early settlers that came in search of a new life and the Republic of Texas era, showcasing the diverse groups that lived in Texas at that time. The Museum will remain closed until 2025.
The Visitor Center will close Fall 2023 and reopen in 2025. It will highlight the significance of the Convention of 1836 where Texas declared independence on this site. It will direct a visitor to the various experiences at Washington-on-the-Brazos where they can further immerse themselves in the history of 1836 to 1845. It will direct a visitor to Independence Hall, the Washington Town Site, Star of the Republic Museum and Barrington Plantation.
A new brick double Entrance Gate is currently being completed in cooperation with the Texas Department of Transportation. This prominent entry will begin the journey into a very special place in the history of Texas.
The Conference Center will be updated with a focus on corporate retreats and community meeting space.
The Washington Town Site Experience will include new buildings that will depict the rise and fall of Washington as a community and its impact on the history of Texas. Archeology Excavations begin this week. Free townsite archeology tours will be offered every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 11am in the month of October for Texas Archeology Month.
During this time, Independence Hall, Barrington Plantation State Historic Site, walking trails, and the picnic area will remain open to the public during regular hours. Tours at Independence Hall will now be offered Wednesday through Saturday at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
The site aims to honor the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence and inspire visitors about early Texan society, culture, politics, and agriculture. By learning from history, Texas can shape its present and future.
If you have any questions about closures or the renovations, please contact the historic site directly at 936-878-2214.
Source: WOTB
