Old Stone Fort Museum

The Old Stone Fort Museum occupies a 1936 building on the Stephen F. Austin State University campus and displays exhibits about East Texas history and settlement. The collection documents how early communities developed and grew throughout the region.

The original stone structure was built in 1779 by Antonio Gil Y'Barbo as a trading post and served multiple purposes before its demolition in 1902. The current museum building was constructed later to preserve the history of this significant early settlement site.

The museum displays the role of El Camino Real de los Tejas in settlement and economic development of the region. Visitors can see how this trade route shaped daily life and connections between communities.

The museum is located directly on the university campus and is easily accessible on foot or by car. Plan at least an hour to browse the exhibits and explore the grounds comfortably.

A Spanish Colonial demonstration garden grows on the museum grounds and features native plum trees and other historical plants. The garden supports educational programs showing traditional cultivation and food preparation methods.

Location: Texas

Inception: 1936

Website: http://sfasu.edu/stonefort

GPS coordinates: 31.62100,-94.65250

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07