Travel Back To The 1800s At Texas' Pioneer Village Living History Center
By Katie Lawrence|Published September 16, 2021
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
If you’ve ever been curious about what life during the pioneer days was like, stop wondering and head on over to the Pioneer Village Living History Center in Texas to see for yourself. This nonprofit living history museum takes visitors on a riveting journey back to the mid-to-late 1800s, complete with a blacksmith shop, log homes, and various other buildings reflective of the time period. All ages are sure to have a blast experiencing the world through the eyes of Texas’ earliest residents.
Located in the historic town of Gonzalez, the Pioneer Village Living History Center takes visitors on a fascinating journey back to the settlement era.
The open-air village features 10 different historic buildings that, together, form a replica mid-to-late 1800s village.
From a blacksmith shop to a granary, each structure showcases a different aspect of pioneer culture. The realism is astonishing - you'll be half expecting to see folks riding around in horse-drawn carriages!
Events are held all throughout the year, including tours, demonstrations, and battle re-enactments. No matter when you visit, rest assured there are always plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy.
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One of the most notable buildings on the property is an 1892 Greek Revival house museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily goings-on of early Texas settlers.
Volunteers dressed in period clothing serve to make your experience as realistic as possible, leading tours of the village and using their expert knowledge of the era to provide context.
From a modern-day perspective, even the seemingly mundane aspects of 19th-century life are fascinating. Imaging how people made do without luxuries such as plumbing, electricity, and running water is one thing, but seeing the fruits of their innovative spirits is truly incredible.
Relics of the past are everywhere you look, from vintage phones to handspun quilts.
Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children, and docent-led tours cost an additional $6 for adults and $3 for children. Visit the Pioneer Village Living History Center Facebook page to learn more.
Have you ever taken a step back in time at this fascinating museum? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments section below. Tell us how it went, then check out our previous article for another museum in Texas that history buffs can’t get enough of.
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