“includes the majestic plantation house, pecan orchards”
Varner-Hogg Plantation is a State Historic Site whivh tells the story of its three owners: Austin colonist Martin Varner, sugarcane mogul Columbus Patton, and Texas Gov. James S. Hogg. It tells the story of the plantation’s 134-year history. Although the land was first settled by Austin colonist Martin Varner in 1824, the antebellum mansion was built by slaves of the property’s second owner, Columbus Patton, using handmade bricks from the Brazos River mud. In 1901, James S. Hogg, the first native-born Texas governor, purchased the land for oil speculation. The site includes the majestic plantation house, pecan orchards, numerous original outbuildings and outdoor features including the governor’s bathtub, Patton’s cemetery and sugarcane mill ruins.
I truly enjoyed my visit to the Varner-Hogg Plantation. My husband and I tried to visit a few months ago and arrived about 10 minutes after they closed at 5 pm so be aware of that. We finally returned a few days ago. I wan't aware that there was a fee, but it is only $4 per person and with that you get the tour to of the house as well and I highly recommend you taking the time to do that. The grounds are beautiful, but I expected more in the lines of buildings. Part of that is my fault because I didn't read up about the location before I went. Many of the oldest building were destroyed in a hurricane. The main house isn't real big, but it is in great conditions and is furnished with many period pieces so it looks much like it did when Governor Hogg and his family owned it. Because the pieces, including the carpets, are so old and fragile, you are not allowed to touch or explore on your own in the house, but the tour guide was great. He answered any questions and gave a lot of great history of the property. You are allowed to take pictures as long as you don't use a flash, again because of the fragile nature of the items. There are so many pieces that were acquired with the property from the Hogg family that they are rotated out on occasion, therefore it is very likely that you will see different pieces on different visits. About an hour and a half south west of Houston, it makes a great day trip for a family looking to escape the busy city. Bring a lunch and enjoy a picnic under in the orchard or at one of the many picnic table provided.
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Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site
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- Sun, Tue - Sat: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
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