Since 1947, the BHA has served the local community and created opportunities for every resident to learn about, participate with, and come to an appreciation of the connection between our history and cultural art. We are able to serve the community through our various museums that cover nearly every aspect of Brownsville and the Rio Grande Valley’s history and culture.
The mission of the Brownsville Historical Association connects residents and visitors with the heritage and cultural arts of Brownsville, Texas through the preservation of historic sites and artifacts, museum exhibitions and educational programs, ensuring the past endures in our present and inspires our future. The vision of the Brownsville Historical Association is to be passionate advocates and trusted stewards of Brownsville’s history, heritage, and historic places by preserving the past, enriching the present, and inspiring future generations.
The Brownsville Historical Association serves the community through eight unique locations and numerous programs throughout the year. We encourage you to consider becoming a member of the BHA to take advantage of everything we have to offer.
Historical Landmark: Old City Cemetery, Brownsville
The Old City Cemetery was established in 1853 and is recognized as an outstanding historical landmark by the Texas Historical Commission. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cemetery reveals much of the city's history; from victims of war and gunfights, to those who died from yellow fever and cholera epidemics. Those buried here reveal the hard life and the early conditions of a Texas border town. The Cemetery is located on East Madison Street and East 5th Street and is open daily from 7 AM - 8 PM.
Our members enjoy more. We want you to be part of our museums, experience our educational programs and attend our events. Become a member today!
We would like to thank our partners, sponsors and contributors for making our July, August and September programs possible. These include: Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, Consulado de Carrera de Mexico en Brownsville, Revival of Cultural Arts (ROCA), and Nydia O. Tapia-Gonzales.
EXHIBITS
Costumes of the Americas Museum Exhibit: “¡Bailamos!”
Location: Costumes of the Americas Museum, 1004 E. Sixth Street
Duration: On Display through January 29, 2027
Cost: Paid museum admission required.
¡Bailamos! Explores Mexican dances as a vibrant and meaningful expression of culture. Through a dynamic presentation of traditional, ceremonial, and folklorico styles from across the country, the exhibition explores how movement, music and costume come together to mark life’s most meaningful moments, holidays, courtship, faith and community celebration.
Featuring 12 costumes from throughout Mexico, ¡Bailamos! Highlights the significance of each regional tradition while exploring the distinctive costume, choreography, and musical elements that celebrate and study dance. As a living tradition, each dance is continually practiced and preserved across generations.
This program is supported by Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Portions of this exhibit were made possible by the partnership and support of the Consulado de México en Brownsville and Revival of Cultural Arts (ROCA).
BISD Student Art Exhibit: Dia De Los Muertos
Where: Historic Brownsville Museum, Mary Yturria Education Center, 641 E. Madison Street
Duration: October 27, 2026 - November 20, 2026
Cost: Included with paid museum admission. Free for BISD students and teachers (with I.D.)
In honor of Dia De Los Muertos, the Brownsville Independent School District’s Fine Arts Department in partnership with B.H.A, invite the community to celebrate their Dia De Los Muertos Student Exhibit. Beautiful and original art work by students of all age levels will be on display.
EVENTS
Shades of Haunted History Walking Tour: Downtown
When: Friday, October 30, 2026
Time: 7:15 PM
Where: Heritage Museum, 1325 E. Washington Street
Cost: $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Sorry no refunds.
To register please call: 956-541-5560
Want to uncover the spooky past of our border city? We are offering a downtown tour this fall. The tour begins at 7:15 pm and will be led by Michael Rodriguez. There is a 25-person limit so be sure and register early-spots will fill up fast!
Where: Stillman House Museum, 1325 E. Washington Street
Cost: Free for BHA members, $15 if you RSVP and pay before the event, $20 at the door.
Sorry no refunds. RSVP by calling (956) 541-5560.
Boo! Are you brave enough to join us for a spooky ghost hunt and fun costume contest?! Leading the ghost hunt through the Stillman House is Revenant Watch Paranormal. Wear your scariest or unique attire to win some awesome goodies at our costume contest! Everyone is encouraged to wear their spookiest outfit (even if you are not participating in the contest). This event is open to the public and for adults 21 years and older.
Celebrate Charles Stillman’s 216th Birthday with a Free Admission Day!
When: Wednesday, November 4, 2026
Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Where: Historic Brownsville Museum, Costumes of the Americas Museum, Heritage Museum and Stillman House Museum
Cost: Free and open to the public
The Brownsville Historical Association would like to invite the public to celebrate Charles Stillman’s 216th birthday with free admission day! Come out and celebrate with us!
Hours of Operation:
Tuesday - Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm
CLOSED Sunday & Monday
Some locations by appointment only.
BROWNSVILLE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION
1325 E. Washington Street
Brownsville, Texas 78520
1 (956) 541-5560
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