Once Texas earned it’s independence from Mexico in 1836, it was it’s own country until 1846 when it joined the United States as the 28th state. The Star of the Republic Museum is unique in that it is the only museum dedicated to Texas’ years as a republic.
Check out my Mommy Tips for making the most of your visit.
1. Know Before You Go
The Star of the Republic Museum is located at Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site. Entrance to the park is free, but there is admission charged to each of the three attractions, The Visitors Center and Independence Hall, Star of the Republic Museum and Barrington Living History Farm.
We always visit the Star of the Republic Museum first, because my kids usually get dirty at Barrington Farm.
There is not food sold at Washington on the Brazos SHS, but there is a large picnic area and playground. We usually bring a picnic lunch to eat after visiting the Star of the Republic Museum, before going to Independence Hall and Barrington Farm.
2. Admission
The Visitors Center and Independence Hall and Barrington Living History Farm are operated by Texas Parks and Wildlife, and a Texas State Park Pass will get you in free of charge. Star of the Republic Museum is operated by Blinn College, which does not honor the park passes.
From the Star of the Republic’s website; “Tickets for the general public may be purchased at individual sites, or at the Visitor Center. Visitors desiring tickets to multiple sites may want to purchase a Brazos Pass for all sites:
Single site ticket: (admission to one of the above named sites):
Adult : $5.00
Student/children over age 6: $3.00
Family : $15.00-Includes 2 adults and up to 5 students
(Children age 6 and under are admitted free)
Brazos Pass: (unlimited admission to all 3 sites, for one day only):
Adult: $9.00
Student: $6.00
Family: $27.00-Includes 2 adults and up to 5 students
(Children age 6 and under are admitted free)”
3. Once a Nation
A short, 20 minute film recounts life in Texas during it’s years as a republic.
4. Texas History
Visitors can learn about the native bison that roamed the Texas plains, and the native cultures that lived and hunted them.
5. Shower-Brown Discovery Center
My kids love the Discovery Center’s many interactive exhibits just for kids! Their absolute favorite that they talk about ALL YEAR is the large lincoln logs! There are also 4 puzzles that they enjoy working, a cotton exhibit, period clothing and much more!
6. Washington County
Several exhibits also tell the story of life specific to Washington County.
7. Second Floor
Entering the 2nd floor of the museum is like walking into one of the towns of Texas during the years of the Republic.
Things to do in Washington on the Brazos
Star of the Republic Museum offers a glimpse back into Texas history. For more information, click HERE.
Barrington Living History Farm is a real, working farm where you can watch as they portray the day to day life of Texas settlers. Click HERE for more information.
Independence Hall is where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed in 1836. Click HERE for more information.
Things to do in Brenham
Blue Bell Creameries, in nearby Brenham, offers daily tours (M-F) and a yummy cup of super fresh ice cream! Click HERE for Mommy Tips for your visit.
Star of the Republic Museum
Washington
Click HERE to visit their website
