A mere one hundred and seventy five years ago on the 2nd of March, Texas declared its independence from Mexico. Almost within the sounds of the rattle of gun fire from the Mexican army, delegates arrived at an unpainted clap board style building on March 1, 1836. The next day they agreed and signed the Texas Declaration of Independence. It was formulated on March 17 just prior to the arrival of Mexican troops. The area was abandoned until April 21st, 1836 when Santa Anna and the Mexican army were defeated at San Jacinto.
Washington on the Brazos is now hallowed ground as the inscription over the door reads, “Here a Nation was born.” We can visit this site which is now known as “the birthplace of Texas”. The Hall of Independence, as it is also known, stands in that spot as the building replica of that famous occasion. You may literally walk in the tracks of Texas heroes such as Davy Crockett and other greats through the grounds of the museum.
Located just between Brenham and Navasota, Texas, Washington on the Brazos was once the county seat of Washington County. Then it was transferred to Brenham in 1844; and remains so today. Not only that, Washington on the Brazos was essentially lobbied as the capital of Texas but it yielded to Waterloo, Texas. That village is now the city of Austin. Actually, the railroad by passed the cotton rich area and the town slowly was abandoned prior to l900.
The state of Texas bought fifty acres of the townsite in 1916. More was purchased in the years 1976 and 1996 for a total of 293 acres. An experience awaits everyone with attractions such as Independence Hall, Barrington Living History Farm and the Star of the Republic Museum. Period costumes add to the authenticity with a flash back story of the history of Texas. Blinn College of Brenham administers this sacred site.
The last President of the Republic of Texas, Dr. Anson Jones, founded his farming homestead. His home was moved to this site in 1844 to become the living museum. Also, for public convenience, a visitor’s center and gift shop is an attractive addition and is free to all. It includes a conference center and an education center.
Local folks, especially in the Houston area, are familiar with the city street named Washington Avenue. This street got its name as it was the road to Washington on the Brazos or to be later known as the Hempstead Highway or US 290.
If you are a native Texan, a new “Texan” or just passing through, make Washington on the Brazos a meaningful stop. Of course, it is not exactly Washington on the Potomac, but to us Texans it is just as important.
This writer can be located on jamisonwildife. com or  jbobalong@yahoo.com.