Alert

The Fanthorp Inn is closed until summer 2024 for a long-term preservation project.

Fanthorp Inn began as a two-room cedar log dogtrot cabin in 1834, when Texas was still part of Mexico. By 1850 it grew to the 17 room complex you can see today. English immigrant, Henry Fanthorp petitioned Stephen F Austin for permission to settle in Austin's colony upon his arrival to Texas in 1832. He bought 1,100 acres and built his house in 1834 on the road that crossed his land, thus bringing travelers to his door immediately. Henry Fanthorp was appointed postmaster by the provisional Texas government in 1835, and saw the advantage of offering other services and goods to his frequent visitors. Within time, Fanthorp's Inn became a well-known stopping place for both travelers and the community.

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Location

579 S. Main St. 
Anderson, TX 77830 
936-873-2633 
Contact us
See map

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Hours

Friday to Sunday 
10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 

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Tickets

Free 

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Programs

Public Tours 
Living History Programs 
Special Events 
Group Tours  
School Programs 

Fanthorp Inn under a tree with a white picket fence in front

Plan Your Visit

Fanthorp Inn is open for public tours Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and for group tours (by reservation) and school events.

Dining table with a dinner setting

Fanthorp Inn History

Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site is located approximately 30 miles southeast of Bryan/College Station. It consists of six acres in Anderson, county seat of Grimes County.

Events at Fanthorp Inn

historic painting of 19th century election

Election 1835 at Anderson Historical Park

Its election season and the Washington Municipality (which included present day Anderson) needs a new alcalde. After making an informed decision, cast your vote in a replica 1830s ballot box.

photo graph of families at the winking stars wine cellar. Some are being served at the bar while others are playing historic card games.

Fanthorp Inn in the Blog

Restoration Project Underway at Fanthorp Inn

Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site closed temporarily on September 24, 2023 to prepare for an extensive restoration project. Many of the original items and antiques were either taken off site for safe storage or moved away from work areas and tarped.

Visit Eight State Historic Sites to Experience the Republic of Texas Era

Step back in time and experience the period of the Texas Republic in person or virtually at one of these Texas Historical Commission state historic sites.