22 | HUNTSVILLE-WALKER COUNTY , TEXAS 2023-2024 and would be reopened to continue to serve the area with familiar food , but a brand new look . The museum was always a dream just waiting to be brought to fruition , and with many years of planning and the opportunity the new building presented , the dream has materialized as the Cafe Texan History Museum and Library . Giving back to the community is important to everyone involved at Cafe Texan , so the decision to make the company a non-profit was easy . The Cafe Texan not only provides a space for locals to eat , drink , and learn , it also provides jobs to local Huntsvillians . The values of the Cafe Texan are plain to see : preservation of history , giving back to the community , and honoring those who charted the path before .
Oldest cafe transforms downtown Huntsville
The oldest café in Texas is now home to a curated collection that brings antiquities and artifacts from all over the globe to its historic building in Huntsville , TX .
The Cafe Texan History Museum & Library is where history comes to life . The boutique museum is home to an eclectic collection of art and artifacts from all over the world throughout history . Step inside and discover the stories behind the objects that have shaped our past . As guests explore the museum , you ’ ll be transported to many different eras and cultures .
Learn about the life of Teddy Roosevelt in the Wild West or examine ancient tools and rituals of early Egyptian civilizations . View Napoleon ’ s pistol , read letters from former U . S . Presidents or admire the intricate craftsmanship of Samurai swords . Visitors never know what they might discover at The Cafe Texan History Museum & Library .
The knowledgeable staff is available to answer questions and provide insights into the objects on display for an enhanced experience , allowing visitors to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the artifacts . From history buff to simply curious about the world around us , The Cafe Texan History Museum & Library is the place to enjoy the rich and diverse history of the world .
Vance Howard , founder and CEO , is a Huntsville native who bought the Cafe Texan building in 2020 . With the Cafe Texan being the oldest family-owned and operated cafe in Texas , Howard was immediately interested in the property after it was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic . With space for offices , a cafe and a museum , Vance could see his passion project come to life .
There was no doubt that the Cafe Texan is a Huntsville staple
22 | HUNTSVILLE-WALKER COUNTY , TEXAS 2023-2024 and would be reopened to continue to serve the area with familiar food , but a brand new look . The museum was always a dream just waiting to be brought to fruition , and with many years of planning and the opportunity the new building presented , the dream has materialized as the Cafe Texan History Museum and Library . Giving back to the community is important to everyone involved at Cafe Texan , so the decision to make the company a non-profit was easy . The Cafe Texan not only provides a space for locals to eat , drink , and learn , it also provides jobs to local Huntsvillians . The values of the Cafe Texan are plain to see : preservation of history , giving back to the community , and honoring those who charted the path before .
The Museum is open from 8 a . m . to 2 p . m . Tuesday through Saturday and 9 a . m . to 3 p . m . Sunday . Museum admission is free for all with street parking available in the area of 1120 Sam Houston Avenue , Huntsville .
Thomas Mangos , from Southeast Missouri , received his culinary training at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park , NY . Thomas has worked for numerous casinos and hotels throughout the country and has been an Executive Chef for 23 years . He is now the Executive Chef of The Cafe Texan .
The Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch from 7 a . m . to 2 p . m . Monday through Saturday and from 9 a . m . to 3 p . m . Sunday .
Dinner has recently been added from 5 to 9 p . m . Thursday though Saturday . The menu offers classic American dishes with a twist , made with locally-sourced ingredients . With a warm and welcoming atmosphere , friendly staff , and exceptional cuisine , The Cafe Texan is the perfect spot to gather with friends and family for a satisfying meal in the heart of the community .