Museum Program "A House of Their Own: Women’s Stories, Preservation, and Interpretation”

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is one of the oldest museums in Florida. Built in 1798 by a Spanish merchant for his family homes and businesses, eventually purchased by widow Margaret Cook, it became a highly established boarding house of class and excellence. This coquina structure has withstood years of tumultuous Florida history, standing today as a profound museum in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. Owned and operated by the National Society of Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA-FL), its female history is a story told about notable female owners, boarders, and workers.
However, the house’s stories cannot be shared today if it was not for the NSCDA-FL saving it from the wrecking ball in 1939 and the continuous preservation efforts happening now. Learn from museum staff about the ladies of the boarding house and how preservation allows their stories to continue and thrive.