The O. Henry Museum offers a look into the life of William Sidney Porter in the Austin years leading up to his controversial prison term, after which he assumed the pen name O. Henry and set about transforming himself into the famed short story writer who authored such universal classics as "Gifts of the Magi," "The Ransom of Red Chief" and "The Cop and the Anthem."
The mission of the O. Henry Museum is to collect, preserve and interpret artifacts and archival materials relative to William Sidney Porter, the author otherwise known as O. Henry, for literary, educational, and historical purposes.
The O. Henry house was built in 1891. In 1934, the house was restored and moved to its current location at Brush Square in the heart of Austin's warehouse district. The museum features the Porter family furniture, personal artifacts and original manuscripts. The O. Henry Museum is listed on the National Register of Historic sites and has been designated as a Literary Landmark by the Library of Congress.
O.Henry is a 1200 square foot 1890s historic home. Occupancy Capacity is 15 people. O.Henry Museum is located in Brush Square an one acre downtown park, near transit routes. Next to the museum is an adjoining courtyard available for staging tours and outside seating.
City of Austin Parks and Recreation Facility
Access: General Public, Students, Scholars
Appointment required: True
The courtyard next to the O.Henry Museum is available for literary events