Dear Friends of the French Legation,

Educational outreach and historic preservation are primary goals of the French Legation Museum, and the Museum brings Texas history to life for thousands of students each year. They learn how history shaped the Texas of today and how individuals and their distinctive personalities can impact current events. This point could not be more colorfully illustrated than by Austin’s infamous Pig War—a story of how Alphonse Dubois’ fit of anger over marauding pigs almost cost Texas the critical support of France.

In the early days of the Republic of Texas, Dubois was quick to recommend that King Louis Philippe of France extend recognition to the fledgling nation. Such recognition was key to the capability of the Republic of Texas to ward off the outside intervention threatening its newly-won independence.

Upon that recognition of Texas independence, Dubois was named chargé d’affaires and traveled to Austin to establish the French Legation. The flamboyant French representative purchased 22 acres from Anson Jones and chose the crest of a hill overlooking Austin as the site of his home. Completed in 1841, this elegant loblolly pine blend of Greek Revival and Mississippi-French architecture reigns as the oldest frame structure in Austin. Furnished with period furniture, the French Legation provides a vivid portrait of the lifestyle enjoyed by affluent residents of Texas in the second half of the 19th century.

Like the Shrine of the Alamo, the state-owned French Legation has been restored and is cared for by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. As you can easily imagine, maintaining this 161-year-old landmark is no small task. The Museum’s low admission fees ensure that this piece of our heritage is accessible to the public, but these fees cannot cover the costs of upkeep and educational outreach.

The French Legation is a treasure of Texas history.  I’d like to offer you an opportunity to play a crucial role in sustaining the French Legation’s meaningful presentation of Texas history, which provides an entertaining educational experience for Texans of all ages.

Now is the time to make a commitment to the Legation through your membership.  Beyond the personal satisfaction you will derive from supporting the Museum, you will enjoy exclusive membership privileges, such as:

Admission-free tours of the Museum;

An informative quarterly newsletter, the Embassy Report;

Invitations to Museum events, including any special events and Bastille Day,

Discounts at the Museum’s distinctive Gift Shop.

And that’s just for starters.  Our membership levels and their additional associated benefits are:

Become a Friend of the French Legation
802 San Marcos Street
Austin Texas 78702

Help us preserve the spirit of Texas for generations to come by sending us your tax-deductible membership contribution today.  A bientot et merci beaucoup.

Sincerely yours,

The French Legation Museum Committee & Staff
Daughters of the Republic of Texas

If you would like to become a member or a benefactor of the museum, please contact the Office of the Director.