Overview
The Ruth Paine House Museum is a restored 1950s suburban home in Irving, Texas, with significant historical importance related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. It was the home of Ruth Paine, where Lee Harvey Oswald's wife, Marina, stayed, and where Oswald spent the night before the assassination. The museum tells the story of the events leading up to the tragedy through multimedia exhibits and preserved interiors.
Top Highlights
- Restored Interiors: The house has been meticulously restored to its 1963 appearance.
- Multimedia Exhibits:Projected vignettes and audio recordings bring the history of the house and its occupants to life.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the relationship between the Paine and Oswald families.
Things to Do
- Guided Tour: Take a docent-led tour that starts at the visitor center and shuttles you to the house.
- Learn History: Gain insight into a pivotal moment in American history from a domestic perspective.
Best Time to Visit
Tours are available by reservation. It is best to book in advance, especially around November anniversaries.
Entry & Visitor Information
- Tours: Tours must be booked in advance; visitors cannot drive directly to the house.
- Visitor Center: Tours depart from the Ruth Paine House Museum Visitor Center at the Irving Central Library.
- Admission: A fee is charged for the tour.
Facilities Available
- Visitor Center: Located at the library with restrooms and information.
- Transportation: Shuttle service provided from the visitor center to the museum.
Travel Tips
- Reservations: Essential as access is by guided tour only.
- Photography: Interior photography may be restricted; check with your guide.
Nearby Places to Explore
- Irving Archives and Museum: Explore more local history.
- Millennium Park: A nearby park with a fountain and walking paths.