Exhibits
The Taylor Museum of Waco & McLennan County History is preparing a renewed exhibition experience that will explore the region’s story across time—connecting people, place, and events through thoughtful interpretation and engaging design. Future exhibitions are being developed to encourage curiosity, learning, and meaningful connections with local history.
While plans for the reimagined galleries continue to take shape, the Museum remains proud of the exhibitions that have shaped its legacy and reflected its longstanding commitment to preservation and education.
Past Exhibitions
Over the years, the Taylor Museum has presented a wide range of exhibitions drawn from its collections and the broader history of Waco and McLennan County. These past exhibits reflect the Museum’s long-standing commitment to sharing the stories and experiences that have shaped Waco and McLennan County.
Explore a selection of previous exhibitions below.
Firm Foundation
One of the Taylor Museum’s most recognized displays, We the People… explored American history during the colonial era. Reflecting Helen Marie Taylor’s deep interest in early American history, the exhibit presented select artifacts that helped bring the nation’s founding story to Waco.
The Cotton Palace
This exhibit explored the significance of the Cotton Palace, which served as a focal point of Waco life during the years when cotton was central to the local economy following the Civil War. Through photographs, artifacts, and period fashion, the exhibit brings to life the pageantry, pride, and community spirit of the Cotton Palace era—when Waco welcomed visitors from across Texas to celebrate agriculture, industry, and regional identity.
Crossroads
The Crossroads exhibit guided visitors through Waco’s earliest history, from Paleo-Indian peoples who used rock shelters and the surrounding landscape to the eve of the Civil War. Immersive elements—including a Wi’iko grass house replica, a recreated rock shelter, and Tonkawa pictographs—were paired with Native American artifacts and stone tools. The journey continued with a frontier log cabin and interpretive panels highlighting early Waco leaders such as Neil McLennan, George Erath, and Jacob De Cordova.