576/20/2023
In just a few years, visitors to Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site in Washington, Texas, will discover an all-new visitor experience awaiting them, the result of an epic site restoration and reimagining of its visitor experience.
"We are thrilled to announce the complete reenvisioning of Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site. As a Texas Historical Commission state historic site, it is our mission to share the important history of this site with visitors from around the world,” said THC Chairman John L. Nau, III. “With updated gallery exhibits, outdoor interpretive installations, and compelling high-tech interactive displays, we are confident this project will provide an unparalleled visitor experience.”
The construction will be phased over two years. Starting in fall 2023, partial site closure will be implemented and will continue into 2025. During this time, tours of Independence Hall, Barrington Plantation State Historic Site, walking trails, and the picnic area will remain open to the public during regular hours.
The restoration of the site's visitor center will bring to life the events that took place at Washington-on-the-Brazos in 1836 and explore the significance of the Convention of 1836 within the story of the Texas Revolution. The Star of the Republic Museum will explore the wider context of the Republic of Texas by providing visitors a sense of what life was like for the diverse groups of people who lived in Texas at the time.
A new brick entrance gate is under construction and will create a welcoming gateway to the historic site. With a focus on corporate retreats and community meeting space, the updated conference center will be a valuable space and resource.
In 2021, under the leadership of state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, the Texas Legislature appropriated $34 million to fund renovations of the site. The Washington on the Brazos Historical Foundation has taken the lead to raise an additional $10 million. In early 2023, the Foundation launched the "Where Texas Became Texas Campaign," led by Co-Chairs Lois and Jim Kolkhorst, Cyndee Smith, and Honorary Chair John Nau, III.
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site exists to honor the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence and their efforts to build a new nation, and to interpret life in Texas during the Republic era. By educating visitors about early Texan society, culture, politics, and agriculture, the site ensures that Texas' present and future can benefit from the lessons of its history.
To stay updated on the progress of the project, the public can follow Washington-on-the-Brazos on Facebook (facebook.com/WashingtonOnTheBrazosSHS) or Instagram (instagram.com/oldwashingtontx) for updates on the restoration project's construction progress, as well as features visitors can expect upon the site's reopening.