If you’re a fan of Texas history, then a visit to Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site should be on the top of your bucket list. It was here that the 59 delegates met in March 1836 to both formally declare independence from Mexico and draft a constitution that would establish the Republic of Texas. The tall tales and inspiring stories of this tumultuous time in Texas history live on and can be experienced at the state historic site by visiting its three main attractions (Barrington Living History Farm, Independence Hall, the Star of the Republic Museum, and the Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site) or by checking out one of its major annual events including Texas Independence Day Celebration in early March. Enjoy a truly immersive historical experience at Living History Saturday, or celebrate Texas independence where the 59 delegates met to make history.
Learn more about Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site’s major annual events below, then plan your trip here. To see more events, visit the state historic site’s website.
Monthly
Experience the events that lead to the birth of the Republic of Texas first hand at Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site’s Living History Saturdays. Visit on the third Saturday of each month and you will see staff and volunteers dressed in period clothing that help illustrate what life was like at the dawn of the republic.
During your journey into the past, you can try your hand at writing with an old-fashioned quill pen, sign a copy of the Texas Declaration of Independence and play some early Texas games.
Not only will you find plenty of fun activities for the whole family, but you’ll come away with a much greater understanding of Texas’ culture, heritage, and history.
March
On March 2, 1836, 59 delegates from across the territory met in Old Washington sign a formal Declaration of Independence from Mexico, a defiant act that would change the course of world history. Today, this momentous occasion is celebrated over two days where Texas officially became Texas. Live music, special performances, food and traditional crafts are only a small part of the event. Living history presentations and historical encampments transport you back to 1836. Along with all the goings-on, the state historic site offers free admission to all attractions, making it an ideal time to visit.
June
Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration
Join Washington on the Brazos the weekend after Juneteenth as we celebrate African American families in Washington County with live performances, exhibitor booths, and presentations on African American culture and history in Texas. Admission is free.
December
Candlelight Christmas
Discover the origins of some of our favorite Holiday traditions the first weekend of December as costumed interpreters bring to life the festivities of the season with musket-fire, music, dancing and more at Barrington Plantation. Step into the historic home of the last President of the Republic, Dr. Anson Jones, as the family enjoys their Christmas gathering. Visit the plantation’s quarter to hear how the enslaved at Barrington experienced the season. Sip a hot cup of cider, cozy up to the fire, and begin your holiday season with Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site.
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