Photographer: Kevin Stillman

During Texas Revolution, West Columbia was known simply as Columbia; town figured prominently in history of Texas. Was first capital of the Republic of Texas from Sept. - Dec. 1836. The first Congress convened under a triple-trunk live oak tree known as the Independence Tree. Sam Houston was inaugurated president, and Stephen F. Austin served as the first Secretary of State. A replica of the first capital (reconstructed in 1977) is at 14th and Hamilton.

Reflecting the area's prominent role in Texas history, the museum traces the historical significance of the Victorian era with artifacts from the joys of childhood through the grief of death. Displays document the West Columbia Oilfield, largest producer of its time in the U.S., and the ranching industry that still exists. An entire room is devoted to East Columbia with a diorama of the town as founded in 1823 by Josiah H. Bell, photographs of early-day homes, bells from the Hiawatha and the Brazos Belle, and grand steamboats that sailed the Brazos River, first for trade, and later, pleasure.

New additions to the museum include set of woodworking planes dating back to 1860 and two beautiful wedding gowns from the 1890s.

The museum is open Wed. - Fri. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. For Sat. tours please call ahead.