In 1970, several citizens of Brenham, Texas came together and formed the Heritage Society of Washington County to purchase the 1843 Giddings Wilkin House to prevent it from being moved from Brenham. In 1976 the Society acquired and began to restore the 1869 Giddings Stone Mansion across town. Through generous contributions of money and time, the Society has completely restored and furnished both properties and had them listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Both houses have also been awarded the Texas Historical Medallion.

The Heritage Society of Washington County invites you to visit these homes. You will be introduced to the colorful past of Brenham and will follow the history of Brenham, Washington County and Texas through the eyes of the influential Giddings Family from the 1840’s to the mid 1900’s.

The Society membership is open to anyone interested in preserving Texas’s historical homes. It maintains these two priceless properties, opens them for private tours, hosts Society sponsored events several times a year and makes the Mansion available for rental for special private functions including weekend wedding events. The Society also sponsors a four year Heritage Belle program for local high school girls. The program provides opportunities for community service and education.