Calaboose African American History Museum, San Marcos

About Calaboose African American History Museum

The Calaboose African American History Museum preserves and celebrates African American history in San Marcos and Hays County. Housed in Hays County's first jail, built in 1873 and later used as a USO facility for black soldiers during World War II, the museum opened in 1997. Visitors explore featured exhibits including African Americans in the Military, The Colored School, and The San Marcos Airfield and Negro USO. The permanent collection contains more than 500 items, including photographs, letters, books, textiles, drawings, and other artifacts documenting local heritage. The museum welcomes individual visitors and groups, offering scheduled tours by appointment. An onsite parking lot serves visitors, and accessibility accommodations include a back entrance for those with disabilities. The museum is located in San Marcos' historically black neighborhood near Eddie Durham Park and the Historic First Baptist Church of San Marcos.