Last updated: 3/25/2022
Saint Augustine, Florida
Street Address
20 Aviles StreetSaint Augustine, FL 32084
Mailing Address
28 Cadiz StreetSaint Augustine, FL 32084
phone: 904-829-3575
e-mail: Museum@xfhouse.org
web: www.ximenezfatiohouse.org

Hours

Enjoy a 30 minute guided tour.
Tuesday - Saturday
11 AM - 4 PM
Sunday - Monday
closed

Admissions

Adults $6
Children (6-17) $4
Seniors (65+) $4
Under 6 free Groups of 10 or more $3.50/person

Museum Type(s)

Staff

Payson Tilden
phone:
Stefanie Kite
phone:
Julia Delbecchi
phone: 862-763-1004
Description

One of St. Augustine’s most authentic historic sites, a 19th century haven for writers and tourists. Fragrant orange trees introduce visitors to this remarkably preserved inn. Displays include a rare ca. 1650 Caravaca Cross.

The site has been occupied for centuries, first by indigenous people and then Europeans since 1572. More than 15 digs on the property have unearthed thousands of artifacts that range from pre-Columbian pottery to a rare 17th century Caravaca Cross.

In 1798, Andres Ximenez constructed the building of locally quarried coquina rock, the area’s most expensive building material — and one that has stood the test of time. The House is also an exceptional example of St. Augustine Plan architecture, an elegant hybrid style developed during the Second Spanish Colonial Period.

Sophisticated and well educated for their time, the owners and managers of the House provided quality accommodations and attracted a fashionable clientele. These winter guests from cosmopolitan cities like New York, Boston and Charleston were often welcomed into the spacious Owner’s Quarters upstairs for an evening of music and conversation. Sometimes favored locals were also invited.

Mission

To preserve and interpret the Ximenez-Fatio House in St. Augustine as an inn depicting early tourism in Florida (1821-1861).

History
A Brief History

In 1798, Don Andres Ximenez built this fine three-story home and warehouse of coquina for he and his bride, Juana Pellicer Ximenez. Juana’s father, Francisco Pellicer led the Menorcan exodus of 1777 out of New Smyrna, from their illegal bondage by Dr. Andrew Turnbull. Pellicer brought approximately 600 people to St. Augustine at the invitation of British governor Colonel Patrick Tonyn.

The House has been owned and managed by women since the early 1830s, an era when it was unusual for a woman to own property or earn a paycheck. These astute businesswomen used their household management skills to earn a living. In the process, they set the standards for modern tourism, the backbone of Florida’s economy today.

Facilities

This is one of the few historic properties in St. Augustine owned and operated by a private non-profit organization. And after almost 200 years, the property is still held and managed by women.

Governance

The Museum is governed and owned by The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in The State of Florida.

Services
VISIT OUR GIFT SHOP!

Visit our newly renovated gift shop and check out some of St. Augustine’s most unique items! From historical reproductions to beautiful original artwork to the perfect personalized gift, we have it all! Our shop hours are the same as the museum – Monday thru Saturday 10am to 5pm.

Stop by today and sample our delicious local honey from The Honey Truck or some of our tasty jams and jellies. Our team is ready to help you select just the right gift for that special someone. Local delivery to your hotel or BNB is now available! Stop by and say hi today!

Tours - Professional Guide

Professionally Guided Tours‍ Available

Self-Guided Audio Tours

Self-Guided Audio Tours in English and Spanish. Audio Tours are Made Available Through a Grant Supplied by Florida Humanities

Gift Shop
Group Tours
Exhibitions
Museum Events
DISCLAIMER
This information, including business hours, addresses and contact information is provided for general reference purposes only. No representation is made or warranty is given as to its content or the reliability thereof. User assumes all risk of use. Stories USA, Inc. and its content suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or delay resulting from such use. Please call ahead to verify the dates, the location and directions.

MUSEUM CONFERENCES

Museum Trustee Association Spring Forum 2024

April 10 - 14, 2024

Atlanta, Georgia

Texas Association of Museums 2024 Lubock Annual Conference

April 14 - 17, 2024

Lubbock, Texas

2024 Colorado-Wyoming ANNUAL MEETING

May 1 - 4, 2024

Worland, Wyoming

West Virginia Association of Museums 2024 Conference

June 6 - 8, 2024

Shepherdstown, West Virginia

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