Old Nacogdoches

University

Building

515 N. Mound Street

The Old Nacogdoches University Building, often referred to as the “mother of education in Texas,” is a Texas State Historical Landmark and one of the local structures listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is presently a museum run by the Nacogdoches Federation of Women’s Clubs, and contains period furnishings and artifacts from its earlier days.

   Come visit the Old Nacogdoches University Building to see how it has shaped the past while still preserving education today.

Make a Donation
View Our History

Give a little. Help a lot.

The Federation of Women’s Clubs is asking for donations to help make the Old Nacogdoches University Building handicapped accessible. With your contribution, we’ll be able to expand and make viewing our facility easier for our community and all guests. Donate today!

The Federation of Women’s Clubs is a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt organization.

Volunteers & Contributors

Dollars Raised

It all began…

Nacogdoches University was founded under a charter granted by the Republic of Texas on February 3, 1845 in response to a petition from the citizens of Nacogdoches who held a public meeting at the courthouse for that purpose on November 1, 1844. This Old University Building is the only existing building in Texas that was built for a university established during the Republic of Texas.

The University was originally housed in the “ Red House“  which was a building downtown that was rented from Judge Bennett Blake for the first school session beginning September 1, 1845. That house has been built by Colonel Piedras, Mexican officer of the 12th Battalion to house the 320 Mexican soldiers sent to Nacogdoches in 1827 to maintain order and control the frontier. After Piedras was driven from Nacogdoches in 1832, Thomas J. Rusk later bought the house for his first Texas home. The University occupied this old adobe and frame house until 1852 when it moved across the street. In 1855 the University purchased the Temperance Hall on Hospital Street.

Book an Event

From gorgeous grounds to historically restored interiors we can accommodate a variety of events. Schedule a tour to see if we’re right for your event.

The history here was fascinating. I’m recommending it to everyone who enjoys Texas history.
- Henry Jonson

Address

515 N. Mound Street
Nacogdoches, Texas 75961
Get Directions

Parking is available on Mound St. and all around the TJR Elementary school campus.

Hours of Operation

Tuesday - Friday:
1:00PM - 4:00PM

Saturday 10AM - 4PM

Closed Sunday, Monday, and all holidays.

Special tours: Call (936) 569-7292

Leave your name, phone number and a message and your call will be returned promptly.

Contact Us

President: Rachel Underwood
Phone:
(936) 569-7292 or Email

Please leave a message

Mail: P. O. Box 633113
Nacogdoches, TX 75963-3113

Admittance is free, donations are welcome. Many books and souvenirs related to the Old University Building are available for purchase during normal hours of operation.

Reservation Resources

Rental Agreement