Armstrong Browning Library & Museum - Baylor University, Waco, Texas

ARMSTRONG BROWNING
 LIBRARY & MUSEUM
Baylor University
Waco, Texas

Sculpture in front of library

On a recent day trip to Waco, Texas, The Travelling Toe and the Road Warriors drove to Waco, Texas to visit the best kept literary secret which is the Armstrong Browning Library & Museum. What, dear reader, you ask is this secret?  Well glad you asked. It is a gem of academia nestled in the beautiful college campus of Baylor University and dedicated to all things pertaining to Robert Browning.  Yes, that Robert Browning and his beloved wife Elizabeth Barrett Browning, both Victorian poets, who by now must be considered "honorary" Texans - well, sort of.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Robert Browning

Dr. Joseph Armstrong, became interested in the literature of Robert Browning at an early age and beginning in 1905, collecting books and articles associated with Browning.   Then in 1909, he made his first tip to Italy.   On that trip he became acquainted with Robert "Pin" Browning the only son of Robert and Elizabeth.   Armstrong learned of Pin's death in 1912, and due to family squabbles, his entire estate was auctioned at Sotheby's.   Dr. Armstrong instructed an agent to attend the auction and make a note of what was sold and who purchased it.   Dr Armstrong was resolved to re-assemble as much as he could of the Browning's belongings,   In 1918, Dr. Armstrong donated his small collection to Baylor University.  It is noted at as early as 1925, the assembled works were considered to be the largest single collection of Browning memorable.  

Professor Armstrong

Included in the collection are manuscripts of the poet's work, their personal books, paintings, personal jewelry, including Robert's signet ring, furnishings and other household items such as a tea service.  

When you tour the library and museum it is astonishing how many pieces (both large and small) make up this vast collection.

Armstrong Browning
Library & Museum
floor plan

As the collection grew, it was determined that a separate building needed to be built on campus to house the collection and provide study space for scholars.  Groundbreaking for the existing building was held on May 7, 1948.   The library was finally finished December, 1951.  

As you enter the building, you go through very heavy tall brass doors that depict themes from Browning's poetry.  After you enter be sure to notice all the beautiful stained glass windows in the building.  There are 62 of them and most celebrate the works of Robert and Elizabeth.    On the 3rd floor is a reproduction of the Browning's drawing room from their home in Florence and features many of the famous couple's original furnishings.  Along the corridor of the hallway to the drawing room, the walls are filled with portraits of  Robert Browning from a young man to old age.   It is very interesting to see his progression of age. 

Bronze Entrance Doors

The Brownings
Florence Drawing Room

On the lower floor, you will find the restroom and gift shop.  The gift shop has an nice assortment of items to enjoy and to purchase.   The Travelling Toe and Road Warriors assisted in the economic welfare of the library of some small purchases as a remembrance of our visit.  Also on this floor are display cases of lovely Wedgwood items and a decorative porcelain collection.  They are indeed worth taking the time to view.

So dear readers, there are many things to see and enjoy in Waco, so if you do happen to visit be sure to spare an hour for this amazing literary gem located in the heart of Texas

Elizabeth and Robert

Side note:   There is no fee to visit the museum

Armstrong Browning Library & Museum