Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is undergoing an epic renovation to create an enhanced visitor experience. This 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 reopen November 8, 2025.

The Visitor Center will reopen November 8, 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 has been 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 has 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 began in October 2023. Learn more about the progress of the Archeology. 
Texas Monthly Article

Due to heavy construction traffic, areas west of Ferry Street are currently closed; starting May 27th, access to the Townsite (including Independence Hall), trails, Visitor Center and Visitor Center Parking Lot will close through October for visitor safety, with admission available only at the Barrington Living History Farm Wednesday-Sunday. Click here to see a current site map of closures. 

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.

The Washington on the Brazos Historical Foundation has committed to raising the final $10.4 million needed for this vision and has launched the Where Texas Became Texas Campaign. We invite you to join us! Learn more about our Capital Campaign.