I now give you: AMOA Laguna Gloria.
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| Exterior view of the Driscoll Villa Photography by Broken Piggy Bank |
The museum itself is an Italian-style villa with a magnificent interior that still has many of its original fixtures and floors from the 1920's when it was built. It was originally the home of Clara Driscoll, the famed Daughter of the Republic known as the Savior of the Alamo. The interior itself is photo worthy, and photography is welcome in the museum.
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| The Solarium of the Driscoll Villa Photography by Stephanie in 2009 |
The grounds upon which the villa museum stand are vast and beautiful. The plot of land was once owned by Stephen F. Austin, for you history buffs out there, but he never actualized his dream of building a home on the land. Clara Driscoll purchased the land since it put her in mind of Italy, where she and her husband spent their honeymoon, which can give you a sense for the kind of landscape you will encounter.
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| View from behind the villa Photography by Emmanuelle Bourgue in 2008 |
If you're searching for some spectacular nature pics, Laguna Gloria is your spot. If you want a gorgeous backdrop for wedding photos or family shots, you've got it. (There are fees associated with commercial photography, such as wedding photos - be sure to check their website for pricing and call the museum to set up a time for a photo shoot). Since this is located next to Mayfield Park (the subject of the last photography excursion post), you will also find peacocks around Laguna Gloria.
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| View of the Villa and Grounds Photography by Christopher Leonard in 2009 |
As the weather begins to get a bit cooler, this is an excellent spot to spend an afternoon, with or without a camera...no. Definitely with a camera ;)