Austin: Texas State Capitol and Visitors Center

Housed in the historic General Land Office Building, the Capitol Visitors Center features exhibits and materials about Texas history, the Capitol, and the General Land Office. Adorning the Senate chamber of the Capitol building are the renowned twin historical canvases by painter Henry Arthur “Harry” McArdle: “Dawn of the Alamo” and “The Battle of San Jacinto.” These brilliantly detailed, iconic pieces depict – in dramatic and sensational style – two keys battles in the Texas Revolution. The Texans are portrayed quite heroically while the Mexican soldiers almost resemble caricatures.

Also hanging in the Senate chamber is an oil portrait of William Physick Zuber, a largely self-educated German farmer, educator, and Texas Army veteran who served during the Texas Revolution at just 15 years old – and later became a tour guide in that very chamber.

A “Heroes of the Texas Revolution” guided tour is offered daily in the Capitol building.

Texas State Capitol 

• Hours: Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday - Sunday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
• Admission: None
• 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX
• 512-463-4630
• Visit Website
• National Register of Historic Places