Trip to the Birthplace of Texas: Washington-on-the-Brazos

On Friday our family took a trip to Washington-on-the-Brazos. This is the site where Texians met and first declared their independence from Mexico. There is an incredible museum on the property with artifacts of various kinds, Independence Hall- a replica of the meeting place where all the delegates met to sign the declaration of Independence, and Barrington Living History Farm, that operates using period tools and materials from the mid-19th century. We all agreed that the farm was the best part of the program. Ethan loved playing with the ring from a barrel. He discovered them propped up on the side of the house when one of the ladies was giving us information. I was excited because we had read about common toys children used earlier in the week from a library book. Both Ethan and Laurel had fun trying to wash clothes on a washboard using lye soap. Then they had an opportunity to hang them up on a washline with wooden hangers. They got to feed some pigs too (back then, their most important source of sustenance) and learned that back then, the hair from a pig's back was used for toothbrush bristles. Ethan also had a great time using the tool to carve wood. He had to wait a long time for all the older kids to try first before he finally got an opportunity at the sawing horse with the drawing saw. Here the kids pose in front of a scarecrow in the cotton field. Excessive rains have left the cotton fields lacking. We ate lunch down by the Brazos River at a picnic area. The kids loved playing on the playground. (built c. 1870?) After lunch Ethan and Laurel listened to a museum presentation of life during the mid-19th century for kids. I was so proud of them as they sat still and paid attention for at least 45 minutes. They fashioned some homemade games and then we were able to self-tour the museum. Ethan really enjoyed the paddle wheel on the riverboat exhibit. As you steer, you were able to simulate going up and down the Brazos River. Finally we went for a stroll to Independence Hall and saw the place where the Texas declaration was signed.