Gentilz Exhibit to Debut at Texas Independence Celebration

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WASHINGTON, Texas – An exhibit showcasing the works of a 19th century Paris-born painter and draftsman who chronicled early Texas life and its indigenous cultures will open on March 2  as part of the kickoff of the annual Texas Independence Day celebration.

The 16-piece Theodore Gentilz exhibit, “The Substance of Life: Texas Through the Eyes of Theodore Gentilz,” will open Saturday, March, 2, during the first day of the weekend celebration at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site. The Star of the Republic Museum will host the exhibit through May 31.

The two-day festival marking the 177th anniversary of Texas’ Declaration of Independence from Mexico also will feature a commemorative ceremony to honor the delegates who met at Independence Hall on March 2, 1836, to decide the republic’s fate, live music, historic demonstrations and re-enactments. All admission fees will be waived during the celebration weekend. Food vendors selling a variety of festival foods will be on site.

Gentilz, a Frenchman, came to Texas in 1844 as a surveyor for empresario Henri Castro and helped plat the town of Castroville.  He later moved to San Antonio, where his art focused on the everyday life of the indigenous cultures, including Indians, Mexican ranchers and villagers. The exhibit includes 16 oil paintings dating from the mid-19th century.

Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site features three attractions that are open year round: Independence Hall, the Star of the Republic Museum and Barrington Living History Farm.

Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is located between Brenham and Navasota off State Hwy. 105 and FM 1155, approximately one hour northwest of Houston.

Directions and a complete schedule of events will be available prior to the event at http://www.starmuseum.org and http://www.birthplaceoftexas.com.  Additional information is available at (936) 878-2214.