About Us
Nestled in a quiet, green corner of the bustling modern capital of the State of Texas, the French Legation was originally built in 1840-41 to be the residence of the charge d' affaires who represented the government of France in the Republic of Texas.
The Legation became the home of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Robertson in 1848, and remained in their family until 1949; at that time it was acquired by the State of Texas. Under the custodianship of The Daughters of The Republic of Texas, the site has been lovingly restored and furnished with items original to the structure, its owners, and to its time period. It is the oldest extant wood-frame structure in Austin.
The Historic Site of the French Legation is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, from 1:00-5:00 p.m. You are welcome to visit the site, Carriage House Visitors' Center, Museum Store, and Lawns & Gardens at no charge during these hours. Please note that a guided tour is required for entrance into the Historic House and Reconstructed Kitchen interiors.
Guided tours are available to the public Tuesday through Sunday, from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and are offered on-demand. We appreciate your patience; on our busiest days visitors will never need to wait more than 15-20 minutes to join a tour. Reservations are not required for general admission tours.
Adults $5.00
Seniors (62+) $3.00
Students/Teachers $2.00
AAA Members Receive a 10% Discount on Adult and Senior Tour Admission
For Your Information - Guidelines for French Legation Museum Tours
What to expect on your visit to this historic house museum...
Flash Photography is Prohibited, Non-flash is Allowed
Absolutely No Food or Drink Permitted in Historic Bldgs
Be Prepared to Walk Softly Throughout the Historic House
Children Must Be 100% Supervised at All Times During Tours
Though Items Are Easily Accessible in a House Setting, Do Not Touch
You Are Welcome to Take Notes - Please, No Ink Pens Allowed (Pencil Only)
Strollers, Large/Bulky Child Carriers, Backpacks, Etc. are Not Permitted in Historic Bldgs
A variety of community events are hosted by the Museum throughout the year. Museum staff are also available to visit the community with special off-site programs. Call the museum at (512) 472-8180 for the latest information and fees.
SUMMER CAMP NOW ENROLLING - CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION
SUMMER CAMP NOW ENROLLING - CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION FORM
The Museum Grounds and the Carriage House Loft may also be reserved for your special private events. Call (512) 472-8180 for details, or visit us at 802 San Marcos Street, Austin, Texas. A wedding at the French Legation Museum is an event to remember.
If you explore our site you will find a brief history of the French Legation and a mini-tour as a small introduction to your real visit to a unique treasure of our Texas heritage.
We are an accessible site. Our parking lot is located at the intersection of East 9th Street and Embassy Drive. Please park in our designated parking spaces or in any convenient space in the lot. Enter the site through the parking lot gate; this entry has a paved pathway with minimal slope. The first building on your left will be the Carriage House Visitors' Center; this is where you will begin your visit. The front door is located on the south side of the building, under the exterior staircase. The door can be rather heavy, so please feel free to knock and we'll be right with you! If you would like to borrow the Museum's wheelchair, do not hesitate to ask staff. If your group will include more than one wheelchair or if you require use of a service animal, please call ahead to ensure we are able to accommodate your needs upon your arrival. For visitors who are non-hearing, please feel free to learn about the site through this website before your visit. Some accommodations can also be made for our visually-impaired visitors. Please call ahead to ensure a great visit.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we protect of the French Legation Museum's Historic Home. Do not hesitate to call with any questions (512) 472-8180. We strive to serve every visitor and to ensure they have a wonderful visit.
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Our Mission
The French Legation Museum promotes understanding and appreciation of Texas history and culture through preservation of the legacy, structure, and collections of the French Legation of The Republic of Texas.