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1325 E. Washington St. Brownsville, Texas 78520

1 (956) 541-5560

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HISTORIC ALONSO BUILDING

Brownsville’s Unique Historic Venue For Your Memorable Events.

The Historic Alonso Building offers an ideal destination and venue for any special occasion or event. Lovingly restored with a lush outdoor patio set that provides the perfect backdrop for your cherished memories. Having the best of both worlds, Historic Alonso lends itself to combined indoor/outdoor gatherings. When you choose Alonso, your special occasion is the star! We book the building for only one event at a time so your care and comfort can be our highest priority.

Whether you are planning a once-in-a-lifetime wedding reception, Corporate Gala, social affair, or any special private event, the Alonso is a gorgeous setting and an ideal location where special memories are made! Open year-round, the Alonso can be transformed into an intimate setting for as little as 30 guests or an over-the-top extravaganza affair for up to 200.

Spanish-born Manuel Alonso (1846-1922) constructed the one-story residence on this site in 1877 and added the two-story mercantile building by 1890. His "Los Dos Canones" mercantile was a popular gathering place for local residents. French and Spanish influences are evident in the cast iron porch elements (probably from New Orleans), French windows, and corbeled brickwork. The complex was again used as a fine goods mercantile from 1925 to 1944. The Alonso family retained ownership of the complex until 1944. The Gorgas Science Foundation renovated the dilapidated building and it served as the organization's headquarters until 2010 when the building was donated to the Brownsville Historical Association.

The architecture of the Alonso Building is a prime example of the Creole influences that can be found throughout downtown Brownsville. From the tall ceilings to the lush courtyard, today the Alonso Building creates a breath-taking backdrop for exhibits, receptions, and parties.

The Historic Alonso Building is open to the public for party rentals. From your next office party to your dream wedding, we've got you covered!

510 E. Saint Charles Street

Brownsville, Texas 78520

956.554.4965

956.372-1515

Alonso Building Rental Agreement

Alonso Building Rental Fee Schedule

Monday - Thursday

First Hour: $300.00

Additional Hour: $150.00

Day Time Rentals

( 8:00 am- 5:00 pm)

Friday - Sunday

First Hour: $500.00

Additional Hour: $300.00

Weekday Evening

Rentals

Monday - Thursday

 Any four (4) hours between the hours of 5:00pm- 11:00pm: $1,600.00

Weekend Evening

Rentals

Friday - Sunday

Any four (4) hours between the hours of 5:00pm- 11:00pm: $2,500.00

The following conditions apply:

  • All rentals require a $500.00 damage deposit, separate from the rental fees, to hold their reservation. 
  • Damage deposit must be paid at the time the rental agreement is signed. 
  • An additional $400.00 per hour fee is charged for each additional hour beyond contracted rental time. 
  • Additional $50.00 per hour fee is charged for set-up outside normal business hours (9am-4pm). No charge for teardown but all items must be removed from the building the same day.
  • Use of sound system, podium and projector system require an additional fee of $200.00.


Included in the rental fee:

  • The use of the main hall and courtyard, including restrooms and prep area for caterers. 
  • Cleaning and preparation of the building (inside and out) for event. 
  • The use of tables and chairs.

Please note that linens and decorations are not provided.

(Revised and effective 07/01/2024)

BROWNSVILLE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

1325 E. Washington Street 

Brownsville, Texas 78520

1 (956) 541-5560

BROWNSVILLE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

1325 E. Washington Street, Brownsville, Texas 78520

1 (956) 541-5560 

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