Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Historic Buildings
Downtown Brownsville still has dozens of 19th-century buildings, many of which are
slowly moldering away. Be sure to get a copy of the excellent
Guide to Historic Browns-
ville
at the museums or at the CVB (
Click here
)
. This free brochure details the city's herit-
age and has superb walking tours. The sites listed can all be visited on a one-hour stroll.
HISTORIC SITE
Brownsville Heritage Complex
( 956-541-5560;
www.brownsvillehistory.org
; 1325 E Washington St; adult/child $4/2; 10am-4pm Tue-Sat,
1-5pm Sun)
The 1850 home of Brownsville founder Charles Stillman now houses the
Brownsville Heritage Complex about his life. This is a good place to learn about the
downtown area.
Old Market Place
(12th & Market Sq, btwn E Adams & E Washington Sts)
Among the scores of structures downtown is
one of the oldest city halls in continuous use in the US, the Old Market Place. Built in
1850, it now also serves as the city's transit center.
HISTORIC BUILDING
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
(1218 E Jefferson St, at E 12th St)
A late-19th- century Gothic-style example of the artistry of loc-
al brick masons.
CHURCH
Gem
(400 E 13th St)
The Gem, between E Levee St and E Elizabeth St, is the city's oldest build-
ing, dating from 1848. Its projecting balconies once sheltered a saloon.
HISTORIC BUILDING
Russell/Cocke Residence
(602 E St Charles St)
An 1872 house that shows the wealth of the local traders. Like many
downtown buildings it has an interesting historical marker.
HISTORIC BUILDING
V Fernandez Complex
(1106 E Adams St)
The old trade links to New Orleans are clearly visible in this 1877 building.
HISTORIC BUILDING
Sleeping
