Leander's historic Mason Homestead is open to the public after six years of renovations, repairs and improvements.

The 1860s-era farmhouse, located at 1101 S. Bagdad Road near the Leander Public Library, was donated to the city by Christine Mason in 2005. City officials and members of the Mason family celebrated its grand opening Dec. 6.

"We have a little more work to do in 2013, including putting in a small parking lot and driveway, and an outdoor pergola," said Stephen Bosak, Leander Parks and Recreation director, who referred to the donated building as "a meeting place with history."

As funds become available in the coming years, the roughly 3.5-acre tract will be further developed and the other structures on-site will be restored, he said.

The 1,260-square-foot venue has a 35-person capacity and is available for weddings, meetings, parties or other private and public events. The space rents for $100 per day for City of Leander residents and $150 for nonresidents, plus a $250 deposit.

Amenities include a serving kitchen, two furnished meeting rooms, a dining room, a sound system, historic artifacts and exhibits, and a fenced yard. For more information about the Mason Homestead, contact the Leander Parks and Recreation Department at 512-528-9909.