The great state of Texas is full of historical wonders. The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation, with currently 22 state historic sites in Texas. In this blog we will be stopping by 12 of these sites on a 1,200 mile/20 hour historic road trip through Texas!

Mission Dolores State Historic Site — San Augustine, Texas

Built in 1721, this is the perfect stop for a quick morning picnic and to explore the site. Visitors learn about how Native Americans interacted with the first European settlers in Texas. Admission is free when open.

Starr Family Home State Historic Site — Marshall, Texas

This site will wow you with its elegant buildings throughout the property. Learn about the Starr family, who lived there for 4 generations (150 years!). Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday noon-4pm. Admission is $4 per adult, $8 family rate.

Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site — Paris, Texas

This fashionable house was built in 1868 and was home to the Maxey family for three generations. When you step inside you are transported back to the Reconstruction era. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-4pm. Don't forget to get a picture with the Texas version of the Eiffel Tower!

Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site — Bonham, Texas

This 1916 home was home to one of the best known statesmen in Texas — Sam Rayburn, who served in Congress for 48 years and was Speaker of the House for 17 of those years. Everything in the home has been left exactly as it was since the last Rayburn lived there. Bring carrots to feed Stinky the donkey!

Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site — Denison, Texas

Dwight D. Eisenhower was born here in 1890 and served as the 34th President of the United States. The refurbished home features memorabilia and exhibits about Ike. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm. Fun fact: President Eisenhower is the only President born in the great state of Texas!

Acton State Historic Site — Acton, Texas

The smallest state historic site at just .01 acres, this is the site of a monument commemorating Elizabeth Crockett (Davy Crockett's wife), who moved to Texas to claim land granted to Alamo defenders' heirs. Open daily 9am-5pm, admission is free.

Fort McKavett State Historic Site — Fort McKavett, Texas

One of the best preserved military posts from the Texas Indian Wars. General William T. Sherman once called this "the prettiest fort in Texas." Learn about early West Texas life in the beautiful Hill Country. Open daily 9am-5pm.

National Museum of the Pacific War — Fredericksburg, Texas

The only museum in the continental United States focused on World War II in the Pacific. The indoor museum spans over 6 acres. Open daily 9am-5pm. General admission $15; WWII veterans free, active or retired military save $5.

Casa Navarro State Historic Site — San Antonio, Texas

Learn about Jose Antonio Navarro, one of only two native born Texans who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm. While in San Antonio, "Remember the Alamo!"

Landmark Inn State Historic Site — Castroville, Texas

This inn teaches about the Alsatian Settlement and how early commerce worked in Texas. A great final stop before heading home on this long and winding Texas history journey.

French Legation State Historic Site — Austin, Texas

The newest state historic site, featuring a 171-year-old house restored with state funding. A must-see stop while in the state capital.

Caddo Mounds State Historic Site — Alto, Texas

Located just before you reach Nacogdoches, this historic site offers a window into the ancient Caddo culture. Check ahead for current operating status.

Just like that you have completed part one of the historic road trip through Texas — over 1,000 miles learning about prominent figures and places in Texas history! Follow MOT on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and share your travels using #OnTheMoveWithMOT. Safe and happy travels!