French Legation - Austin Texas

Picture courtesy of the Texas Historical Commission Website*

When thinking about Texas, no one ever thinks about the French being involved in or governing Texas. Instead, we think of and learn about the influence and governing of the Spanish and Mexican government prior to 1836. But the French played a significant role in Texas and we have a beautiful house located in Austin that tells about French influence in Texas.

In 1839, France was one of the first country's to acknowledge Republic of Texas by sending a charge d'affairs to represent King Louis Philippe and build a relationship between the two countries. Alphonse Dubois de Saligny (1809-1888) was initially a secretary to the French legation to the United States prior to his promotion. Soon after he arrived in Austin, he bought approximately 21.5 acres of land and built a home or "legation". This building would serve both as his home and the official residence of the French representative.

Inside of the French Legation

Unfortunately, due to health and political concerns, de Saligny sold the home to a Catholic missionary named Father Odin and return to France. In 1848, the home was then sold to Dr. Joseph Robertson whose family would own the home until 1948 when the last of his children passed away. By then there was only 2.5 acres of the original 21.5 left. It was sold to the State of Texas who then placed it in the hands of the Daughter's of the Texas Republic to maintain. They would open it as a museum in 1956 and then run it till it was transferred to the Texas Historic Commission.

A trip to Austin is not complete without visiting the French Legation. It is a beautiful building with a great history and view. In fact, by state law there can be no obstruction of the view between the home and the Capital building and the view is magnificent giving one a sense of what it must have looked like all those years ago. Aside from the view, it is a tranquil spot to visit if for nothing more than to read a book or traverse through the home with a guide. The grounds are open to the public but you will have to buy a ticket to view the inside of the home. It is a visit you cannot miss if you come to Austin.

*Additional photos our courtesy of my daughter who took them when she was 12 years old.