Take a look around Texas and you’ll find big cattle, big barbecue, and big hats, but nothing quite as big as the history. It’s so big, in fact, that some of the Lone Star State’s finest historical sites can slip through the cracks, especially since world-famous places like the Alamo and Space Center Houston get all the attention.
To help you find some of Texas’ best hidden gems of history, we’ve put together a little treasure map—minus the sea monsters, of course. It’ll take you through poignant monuments, adobe mansions, one of the few remaining Harvey Houses in the entire state, and more!
Acton State Historic Site
At just .01 acres, the Acton State Historic Site is the smallest of its kind in Texas. That’s because it’s only around the grave of a single woman. Who is this woman that warrants her very own historic site, you ask? Elizabeth Patton, the wife of Davy Crockett. Elizabeth moved to Acton to collect a land grant left to the heirs of those who died at the Alamo. While in Acton, she single-handedly raised two boys: a heroic feat in its own right.
Though the area of the site is small, the grave is marked by a tall statue of Elizabeth, her hand shielding her eyes as she peers out into the distance, seemingly awaiting the return of her husband, or perhaps searching for a better life. Beyond the connection to the Alamo, Elizabeth’s statue can be viewed as a reminder of war’s impact not only on the soldiers who fight it, but on the families they leave behind.
Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site
Next time you’re looking to step into the past, it might be easier to take a step through the front door at the Sam Rayburn House. As you might’ve guessed, this house belonged to Sam Rayburn, one of the most famous politicians of the early 20th century. In fact, he served as Speaker of the House for 17 years and as a close mentor to another famous Texan, Lyndon B. Johnson. Rayburn died two days before Johnson became president following John F. Kennedy’s assassination.
After several years as a politician, Rayburn saved up enough money to buy himself land in Bonham, where he would eventually build his home. As of today, the home still stands, frozen in time as if Rayburn stepped out for a smoke and will be back any minute.
As you peruse the home and grounds, you’ll find his rocking chairs, his book collection, photographs, and even some mighty fine Cadillacs in the garage. In addition to being important to Texas, the Sam Rayburn House is also a National Historic Landmark, so the history of this home looms large.
Magoffin Home State Historic Site
Down in the West Texas town of El Paso, you’ll fall in love with the Magoffin Home. Maybe you’ve been to another historic mansion or maybe you’ve just got friends in high places, but you’ve probably never been to a mansion like this one. That’s because the mansion is entirely in an adobe style, complete with a flat roof, earthy exterior, and heavy wooden doors.
The influential Magoffin family helped shape El Paso into what it is today, in addition to contributing heavily to U.S.-Mexico relations. Walk through the home and you’ll see just what this level of influence can buy you. It’s one gorgeous room after another, filled with period furniture, family portraits, and an extravagant dining room table always set for dinner. With the adobe’s simple architectural style combined with the ornate décor of the interior, the Magoffin Home serves as a unique slice of Texas’ multicultural roots.
Slaton Harvey House State Historic Site
Ever heard of Harvey Houses? During the years when railroads were king, everyone knew about Harvey Houses. They were restaurants and hotels situated along railroad lines so travelers would have a familiar place to stay and eat. Built in 1912, the Slaton Harvey House in Slaton now functions as a museum, events venue, and—yep—as a bed and breakfast.
At the museum, you’ll be able to learn all about railroads, the historical role of women in American society, the business innovations of the 20th century, and the “Harvey Girls” that worked at the place. One of only six remaining Harvey Houses in Texas, a stop—and maybe even a stay—at the Slaton Harvey House is a can’t-miss opportunity for any Texas traveler.
Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site
Think of all the wonderful times you’ve had on Cinco de Mayo—after all, it’s kind of a big deal in Texas. Now you can pay respects to the man responsible for one of Mexico’s most important holidays, General Ignacio Zaragoza. In 1862, Zaragoza and his soldiers fought off the French to solidify Mexico’s independence, and the yearly celebration of this victory has come to be known as Cinco de Mayo.
In Goliad, Zaragoza’s birthplace is forever enshrined as a memorial to one of Mexico’s greatest heroes. Inside, there’s a colorful museum dedicated to Zaragoza, Cinco de Mayo, and many other aspects of Tex-Mex history. Nearby, you’ll find a 10-foot bronze statue of Zaragoza himself, standing at attention in his fine military attire.
Texas’ Hidden Gems Are Calling
For history buffs, Texas is a history buffet. In fact, you might even consider these historic sites as secret menu items! From the quiet courage at Acton to Zaragoza’s securing of Mexican independence, these sites are proof that the very best stories don’t always make the front page.
Next time you’re on a Lone Star adventure, acquire a brand-new appreciation for this great state by setting aside some time to admire these hidden gems of Texas history.