French Legation

When the state of Texas declared independence from Mexico in 1836, France sent a diplomatic representative, Alphonse du Bois de Saligny, to investigate the prospects of the new republic. He purchased twenty one acres of land on the east side of Austin and began construction of the house known today as the French Legation. Soon after arrival, Du Bois found himself embroiled in personal and political difficulties and fled to Louisiana before completion of the embassy.

In 1936, the Legation was designated by the Historical American Building Survey of the U.S. Department of Interior as “possessing exception historical and architectural interest being worth of most careful preservation.” In 1949, the State of Texas purchased the house and two and a half acres of the property, placing both in the custody of the oldest patriotic women’s organization in the nation, The Daughters of Republic of Texas.

The Garden Club of Houston was asked to participate in the extensive reconstruction project by spearheading the formal gardens. The Founders Fund Award allowed the creation of parterre gardens enclosed by six foot stone walls interspersed with iron grills.

When the restoration was completed and the house and grounds opened to public in 1956, maintenance became the province of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Unfortunately over the years, the gardens were not maintained and it was decided that the GCA Plaque should be removed. The French Legation Museum is still in operation with the mission to promote understanding and appreciation of Texas history and culture.