Dressing Louisa: A Lifetime of Fashion

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum presents a special exhibit centered around Mrs. Louisa Fatio, who owned the boarding house at 12 Aviles Street from approximately 1855 to her death in 1875. The exhibit, Dressing Louisa, explores 1800s fashion in Florida.

Born in 1797, Louisa Fatio was an affluent and well-educated woman who lived her entire life in this area of Florida. During her life, she witnessed vital moments of history: all three of Florida’s Seminole Wars, the coronation of Queen Victoria I, the American Civil War, and the Emancipation Proclamation of 1963. Of course, all of these events shaped the style of the day. Dispersed throughout the rooms, Dressing Louisa includes several historical outfits, accessories, and necessities that people used during the 78 years that Louisa Fatio lived (1797-1875).

Originally built in 1798, the Ximenez-Fatio House has hosted a diverse array of people throughout St. Augustine’s history. The National Society of Colonial Dames of America in the State of Florida purchased the Ximenez-Fatio House in 1939, restored it, and created the museum. The Ximenez-Fatio House was accepted onto the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Click here to view their profile on our site.

Admission: Ticket prices to the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum vary. Adults are $12.00 and children are $5.00

When: April 25 through May 15, 2024, daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where: The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, 20 Aviles Street, St Augustine, Florida 32084