About The English Merchant's Inn in Waxahachie, TX

Who We Are

For years, The English Merchant's Inn has welcomed guests to experience authentic hospitality in a beautifully preserved historic mansion just outside Dallas. Built circa 1915 by cotton merchant James Wright Harrison for his new bride, our inn stands as a testament to Waxahachie's rich heritage when the area was at the center of one of the world's leading cotton producing regions.



Mary and Howard Baskin are proud custodians of this magnificent property, bringing decades of travel expertise and refined hospitality to every guest experience.


At The English Merchant's Inn, we believe in providing personalized service that honors both our historic setting and our guests' comfort, creating memorable stays that reflect the elegance of a bygone era.


See why families across Waxahachie trust The English Merchant's Inn for their special getaways.

Bathroom with ornate gold mirrors, black and white wallpaper, marble countertop, and a lamp.

Our Story

Your host, Mary Baskin, brings a wealth of international travel experience and an educated eye for interior design to our historic inn. She has led small groups on antiquing and cultural adventures across France, Ireland, England, Morocco, Turkey, Egypt, China, Kenya, and South Africa, infusing our property with authentic global touches.


Mary's expertise extends to interior design articles for prestigious publications including Traditional Home, Country Home, and Better Homes and Gardens. She has recently established her own international travel and lifestyle magazine called FOUND, showcasing her passion for discovering unique destinations and experiences.


From the original architectural details of our 1915 mansion to the carefully curated antiques throughout, every corner reflects Waxahachie's place in Texas cotton history and our commitment to preserving its legacy.


We're honored to serve visitors exploring this charming historic town, whether they're seeking cultural adventures or peaceful retreats from Dallas.



Discover the story behind our historic property and passionate hospitality.

Elegant dining room with a round table set for a meal, a chandelier, and a window seat.

Why Guests Choose Us

Our experienced hosts understand what makes a stay truly memorable, treating each guest as if they were visiting dear friends in our carefully maintained historic home.


  • Historic authenticity: A genuine 1915 cotton merchant's mansion with original architectural features and period charm
  • Expert hospitality: Mary's extensive travel experience and design expertise ensure every detail enhances your stay
  • Award-winning service: Selected by Dallas Observer readers as Best 1-Day Getaway from Dallas and recognized as Outstanding Host in America by eviivo
  • Unique accommodations: Perfect for personal getaways, family gatherings, or distinctive business travel experiences
  • Convenient location: Situated at the doorstep of Dallas while offering the charm and tranquility of historic Waxahachie


Your special occasion deserves the attention of proven hospitality experts. With our award-winning service and authentic historic setting, you can feel confident choosing us for your memorable stay. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or gathering friends and family, we're ready to welcome you. Check-in time: 3:00 PM-6:00 PM, Check-out time: 11:00 AM.