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.
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.
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.
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.
Our Reviews
See What Our Clients Have to Say!
byron varnado
2 weeks ago
This place is awesome. It has a rich historical feel, it also feels very home like. The owner is a pretty nice dude. There are books everywhere in here and just cool little things to look at all over the place. I dont want to leave here. 😔
Mira Martin
2 weeks ago
Cherish Grider
4 weeks ago
My husband and I stayed here on our wedding night and it was such a clean and beautiful space we stayed in the cottage. I will definitely be staying there again for a little weekend getaway!
Stephanie
4 weeks ago
We absolutely loved our stay and 100% would stay again. We were here for two nights to be close to our wedding venue. The inn is so beautiful and all of the rooms are decorated to perfection. Howard was such a pleasure to work with during the booking process and made everything very easy. The location is very ideal as well. We stayed in the suite downstairs and really enjoyed the little living room and having our own porch access. It truly felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. Such a great little place,10/10!
Ernest Mack
4 weeks ago
Very quiet experience . I enjoy my stay . I really appreciate the serenity . You don’t find to many mama and poppa places seem like cooperate took over everything .
Ashley Adams
1 month ago
Courtney Pegues
2 months ago
Kelsie Martin
3 months ago
We absolutely adored our time at The English Merchant’s Inn. It was by far the most unique place we have ever stayed…imagine visiting the home of a well-traveled, cool and quirky great Aunt and multiply that times 1,000. Our Harry Potter obsessed 11 year old LOVED it. Howard was wonderful to communicate with, gave great recommendations and was, overall, an excellent host. We CANNOT WAIT for our next trip to Waxahachie.
Christen Augustine
4 months ago
My mom had never stayed at a bed and breakfast before, and I honestly couldn’t have picked a better place for her first experience. We absolutely loved our stay at The English Merchant’s Inn. We stayed in Room #2, and it was beautiful. The canopy bed, clawfoot tub, and private rooftop patio made it feel so cozy and special. Our favorite part was spending the whole morning on the balcony, sipping tea and just talking. It felt so magical. No rushing, no plans, just enjoying the moment together. I know it’s a memory we’ll both hold onto for a long time. Everyone was so welcoming, and the whole place just had such a peaceful, homey feel. My mom is already asking when we can stay at another B&B, so I think that’s the best review I can give. We’ll definitely be back.
Rachel Mickenheim
4 months ago
I have traveled the world and stayed in many very neat places. Nothing comes close to this place. Who knew I would find it in Waxahachie, Texas. There are no words for the ambiance. There are no words for Tony who makes you feel like a friend and family. Above and beyond. Howard cares deeply about his guests and again there are no words for what his wife put in to this beautiful place. If my wallet could afford it I would live here. Come visit! Especially if you love history. Oh! And recommend room #2. But they are all great.
