O. Henry Museum

The mission of the O. Henry Museum is to collect, preserve and interpret artifacts and archival materials relative to William Sidney Porter, the author otherwise known as O. Henry, for literary, educational, and historical purposes.

Purpose

The O. Henry Museum offers a look into the life of William Sidney Porter in the Austin years leading up to his controversial prison term, after which he assumed the pen name O. Henry and set about transforming himself into the famed short story writer who authored such universal classics as "Gifts of the Magi," "The Ransom of Red Chief" and "The Cop and the Anthem."

Programs and Events

LUNCHTIME LIT is a reading and discussion series of O. Henry's works. Join docent emeritus J.C. Elkins at the O. Henry Museum for this free monthly program
May 24: "Lost on Dress Parade"

THE O. HENRY PUN-OFF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS is an annual competition of the best and worst puns with two core events: "Punslingers” and “Punniest of Show”.
May 18, 11am-5pm: The 36th Annual Championships featuring music by the Greatest American Heroes and food trucks from the Guac N Roll and Mmmpanadas.

The Coolest Book Club in the World, Hosted by the O. Henry Museum and Austin Bat Cave
June 15, 22, and 29 & July 6, 9 a.m. – noon, at the O. Henry Museum

Learn how to read with style at this four-part summer camp. Students will choose three of the following six books to read and discuss with their peers. This program is free to the first 12 students to register (5^th – 8^th grade). Please contact the O. Henry Museum at (512) 472-1903 for details.