The End of an Era: Texas Civil War Museum to Permanently Close

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing of the Texas Civil War Museum in White Settlement, Texas. This historic museum, home to the largest collection of Civil War artifacts west of the Mississippi, will officially shut its doors on October 31st.

Founded in 2006, the museum has been a labor of love for owner Ray Richey and his wife Judy, who painstakingly curated a collection of Victorian-era dresses alongside the Civil War memorabilia. The rest of the artifacts were graciously donated by the now-closed Texas Confederate Museum in Austin.

Despite the closure, the legacy of the museum will live on through a consignment partnership with The Horse Soldier Antiques in Gettysburg, PA. The Daughters of the Confederacy have ensured that their items will not be sold, preserving their historical value.

While some critics have questioned the museum’s portrayal of the Civil War, Richey maintains that the institution has always aimed to present a balanced view of this pivotal moment in American history. In response to the controversy, Richey stated, “The museum does not swing one way or the other, and that’s the way I’ve wanted it since day one.”

As we bid farewell to this iconic museum, let us celebrate the contributions it has made to our understanding of the past and the dedication of the Richey family to preserving our shared history. Thank you for joining us on this journey through time.