What Is The Texas Military Forces Museum Website?

Updated

The Texas Military Forces Museum website represents the official museum located at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. It serves as an informational resource for visitors, providing details about the museum's exhibits, hours, admission, security requirements, and ways to support the institution. The museum itself is free to enter and traces the history of Texas military forces from 1823 to the present.

What the Museum Covers

The museum occupies a 45,000-square-foot facility and explores the history of the Lone Star State's militia and volunteer forces. Its historical scope is divided into two main periods:

  • 1823 to 1903: From the first militia muster in Stephen F. Austin's colony through the creation of the National Guard by Congress.
  • 1903 to the present: The story of the Texas Army and Air National Guard, as well as the Texas State Guard, in both peacetime and wartime.

Permanent exhibits use uniforms, weapons, equipment, personal items, film, music, photographs, battle dioramas, and full-scale environments. Topics covered include the Texas Revolution, the Texas Navy, the Texas Republic, the Mexican War, battles along the Indian frontier, the War between the States, the Spanish-American and Philippine-American Wars, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, peacekeeping deployments, and the Global War on Terror.

The museum also hosts living history programs, battle reenactments, and other special events throughout the year.

Visitor Information

Detail Information
Location Camp Mabry, 3038 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Admission Free
Museum Hours 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., seven days a week
Outdoor Exhibits Open dawn to dusk all year
Contact [email protected] or 512-782-5659 (Mon.–Fri.)

Security Requirements for Entry

Because the museum is located on an active military base, visitors must follow specific entry protocols:

  • Visitors must enter Camp Mabry by 3 p.m. to obtain admission to the museum. The Visitor Control Center (VCC) closes at 3 p.m., so arriving by 2:55 p.m. at the 35th Street entrance is recommended.
  • All adults 18 and older must be vetted at the Visitor Control Center before entering the post.
  • Acceptable photo IDs include a US Department of War military ID, military retiree/dependent ID card, US government-issued ID card, state-issued driver's license or ID, or a US Visa.
  • A foreign passport or foreign military ID card without an accompanying US Visa does not allow access to Camp Mabry, even in the company of a valid ID card holder.
  • Entry to the post is via Maintenance Drive off West 35th Street, just before Pecos.

Supporting the Museum

The website also provides a way to support the museum through membership in the Texas Military Forces Historical Foundation. This 501c3 support group raises money to build and sustain the museum. A membership link is available on the site for those who wish to contribute.

Who This Website Is For

This site is useful for:

  • Prospective visitors planning a trip to Austin who want to confirm hours, admission, and entry requirements.
  • Researchers and history enthusiasts looking for an overview of the museum's collections and historical scope.
  • Supporters interested in joining the foundation or learning how to contribute.

If you plan to visit, the key takeaway is to arrive at the 35th Street entrance before 2:55 p.m. with a valid, accepted photo ID, since the security checkpoint closes at 3 p.m. Admission itself is free.