
Pioneer Museum
~ Carmen
Fredericksburg, Texas is known for its wineries, wonderful shopping, and delicious German Food. But for history buffs like me, the little city packs a punch of pioneer, World War II, and 1960s history. Just a walk downtown makes you feel transported back in time.

Downtown Fredericksburg
You might also want to read:
Fredericksburg, Texas: A Whole Lot of History!
During our recent Texas road trip, Joe and I visited three different museums in and around Fredericksburg, Texas. They were all completely different from each other and a history lover’s dream!
Lyndon B. Johnson National Park
Twenty-five minutes outside of Fredericksburg in the town of Stonewall, Texas is the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park comprising several parks in one: Sauer-Beckmann Farmstead, LBJ Ranch and the Texas White House. The visitor’s center offers you an overview of the life and contributions of President Johnson and the First Lady, Ladybird Johnson through two two 30-minute movies. Although entrance to the park is free, there is a nominal $3.00 charge for a guided tour of the Texas White House. Give yourself at lease two-three hours to see the entire park.
Be sure to stop at the following:
Sauer-Beckmann Farmstead is a living history farm, recreated as it appeared and functioned in 1918. Museum guides dress in clothing of the period and operate the farm using the early 20th-century era’s tools and implements. If you can’t stand the heat get out of the kitchen may apply to the visitors, but not the museum guide staff who prepare, cook actual meals and clean without modern day conveniences of AC, refrigeration, electricity or appliances.

Sauer-Beckmann Farmstead
LBJ Ranch and Texas Whitehouse is where Lyndon Johnson was born, raised, and lived until his death in 1973. Ladybird continued to live in the main house part-time until her death in 2007. Upon her death the furniture that was present during LBJ’s presidency was moved back into the Texas Whitehouse recreating what it looked like during his term. A tour of the bottom floor (top floor is closed to the public) is like stepping back into the 60s. I wish I had pictures to share, but photography is prohibited inside the house. Per the Johnson’s request the park remains free to the public and ranch is self sustaining.

LBJ’s ranch is still operational

Air Force One

Beautiful old trees line the drive through the ranch

Feeling like a cowgirl!
Pioneer Museum

Windmills!
No visit to Fredericksburg is complete without a visit to the Pioneer Museum. The museum celebrates the German settlers that first called the hill country home. Many of the structures are in their original location. Located in downtown Fredericksburg, right on main street, the museum is open 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday- Saturday (closed Sundays), and fees are $5 for adults, $3 for ages 6-17, 5 and younger are free. We were able to see everything in about an hour.

1880s Walton-Smith Cabin

1880s Schandua House
Pacific War Museum
When we first bought our tickets ($14 for adults, discounts for students, seniors, and military) for the Pacific War Museum, we were told to allow around three hours to see everything. I’m a pretty fast reader, so I thought No Way! Well, Yes Way! Located over 6 acres in downtown Fredericksburg, this museum is amazingly well designed. The exhibits are interactive with videos and recorded interviews from veterans and their spouses of the Pacific war. War footage is used extensively throughout every part of the museum. Every time we turned a corner, there was more to see.
We particularly enjoyed the Admiral Nimitz museum which is located in the original Pacific War Museum Building. Although not as well know as MacArthur or Patton, Nimitz worked hard on his family’s hill country farm and put himself through college. A true testament to the American “can do” spirit!
Besides the main Pacific War Museum and Nimitz museum, the complex also includes: George W. Bush Gallery, Japanese Garden of Peace, the Memorial Courtyard, the Parade of Presidents who were veterans, and a research facility. So yes, you need three full hours to tour the entire history-rich complex.
So history lovers, if you haven’t been to Fredericksburg, Texas, what are you waiting on? My favorite American history period is World War II. Do you have a favorite historical period or type of museum? Please comment below. We’d love to hear your thoughts!
For wine, food, outdoor, and history lovers, put a visit to Fredericksburg, Texas on your calendar as soon as possible! You’ll love all that Fredericksburg has to offer.
To learn more about our adventures in Texas, sign-up for our weekly email newsletter. It’s real easy to do (no spam)! Keep up with our day-to-day trips by following us on social media!
Adaleta Avdic
May 21, 2016 2:54 pmThis looks like a great place to visit & I’ll have to add it to my list for the future. Thanks for sharing this trip! xx Adaleta Avdic
Pack Your Baguios
May 21, 2016 5:32 pmIt really is a fun little town to shop, eat, and soak in the natural and historic sites. Thanks for stopping by!
Tanya
May 21, 2016 5:01 pmI’ve never been to Texas, but would love to go. Whenever I do hear about Texas though, I do think cowboy/cowgirl hats a boots, so that was very fitting 🙂
Pack Your Baguios
May 21, 2016 5:35 pmI ended up buying two pair of cowboy boots on the trip. Texas definitely grows on you!
Lora
May 21, 2016 8:17 pmI love visiting historic homes and settlements, so I’m thinking the Pioneer Museum would be something I’d really enjoy. Also, your blog name is too cute!!
Pack Your Baguios
May 21, 2016 8:26 pmThe Pioneer museum was fun, full of interesting facts about the first German settlers of the area. I’m glad you like the name!
LeighAnn
May 23, 2016 9:41 amDefinitely adding this to my list of places to see!! Looks great!
Pack Your Baguios
May 23, 2016 7:20 pmYou’d love it! The shopping was amazing along with all of the history and natural areas. My feet were so tired!