Peek into St. Augustine’s past at the Ximenez-Fatio House, a fascinating 18th-century boarding house. Stroll through the rooms and admire furnishings that have been restored to show exactly how the house would have looked. The visitor center has artifacts that date back over four centuries and interactive educational displays. Don’t miss the original detached kitchen, which dates from the late 18th century.
Dwellings have existed on the site of the Ximenez-Fatio House ever since 1572, making it one of the longest continually occupied sites in the United States. The current building is a replica of the colonial boarding house that was run here from 1798 through much of the 19th century. Archaeological digs in the area have also unearthed artifacts from much earlier and you can view them in the museum and visitor center.
Enter the house and explore the various guest rooms. The Captain’s room was for drivers of the steam boats that ran in the area. The Artillery Officer’s room features a military jacket and other memorabilia hanging on the walls. The house also has an Artist’s room and a Frail Ladies room, for unwell or elderly women. Note the period features in each of the rooms, from the chamber pots under the beds to the patterned rug in the Guest Parlor.
Make sure you visit the detached kitchen, which is the only remaining example of such a building in the region. The replica of the original washhouse is also worth a visit.
Don’t miss the visitor center, where artifacts discovered in several archaeological digs of the site are on display. Inspect perfume bottles, tools, pottery and other items dating back as far as the 16th century. You can also watch video displays and interactive exhibits detailing the history of the house.
The Ximenez-Fatio House is located in the heart of St. Augustine’s town center. It is open Tuesday through Sunday and a small charge for entry applies.
