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Waco, Texas / Museums

East Terrace

An iconic Italianate Villa-style mansion situated above the Brazos River, East Terrace House serves as a museum showcasing the life of 19th-century industrialist John Wesley Mann and his family.

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East Terrace
www.historicwaco.org, og_image_www.historicwaco.org

What is East Terrace known for?

East Terrace is an Italianate Villa-style mansion and one of Waco's most iconic historic homes. It was built by Tennessee entrepreneur John Wesley Mann for his wife, Cemira, and contains original Mann family objects and furnishings, including a cast-iron bathtub.

How much does it cost to visit East Terrace?

General admission is $10.00. Students, seniors, and children under 6 and active military are offered discounts, with children under 6 and active military being free.

What are the hours for East Terrace?

East Terrace is open for tours Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tours typically last between 45 and 60 minutes.

Who built East Terrace and why?

The house was built by industrialist and businessman John Wesley Mann after he moved from Tennessee in 1858, and it was intended for his bride, Cemira.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, children under 6 are admitted for free.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

East Terrace House is one of Waco's most iconic historic homes, designed in the Italianate Villa style. Built by Tennessee entrepreneur and industrialist John Wesley Mann for his bride, Cemira, the mansion was completed in 1874. Mann and his family, including their two young sons, Howard and J. W. Jr., moved into the residence in the same year. Over the years, the home evolved to reflect the family's success. In 1884, Mann added an 'Entertainment Wing' featuring a ballroom designed for lavish parties, highlighting the home's role as a social hub. The interior preserves the original Mann family furnishings and objects, including a notable cast-iron bathtub in the bathroom. After a period of decline where the house sat empty for two decades and served as a storage unit, it was given to the Waco Historical Society in the 1960s. Today, it is managed by Historic Waco, a foundation established in 1967 to interpret the history of Waco and McLennan County through its collection of historic properties.

Visitor tips

  • Tours are available Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • General admission is $10, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children under 6.
  • Expect the tour to last approximately 45-60 minutes.

Nearby context

Located at 100 Mill Street, East Terrace House sits prominently above the Brazos River, anchoring a section of Waco's historic residential architecture within the city's preservation efforts.

Sources

Evidence and links