A Sample of Regional Attractions Bell County Museum The Bell County Museum serves the community as a vital resource for the collection, interpretation, and preservation of the historical heritage of the Bell County area. From pre-history to the land grant period, from the formation of the county in 1850 to the establishment of Fort Hood, the region’s history is richly portrayed in permanent and rotating exhibits. The primary focus of exhibits at the museum is the first 100 years of Bell County, from 1850 to 1950, using various aspects of rural and city life. The Bell County Museum is open Tuesday–Saturday, 1 p.m.–5 p.m.; admission is free. Czech Heritage Museum A trek through the Czech Heritage Museum and Library is a journey into the culture of the Slavic people from Bohemia, Moravia, and parts of Silesia who settled in Central Texas. The museum is a celebration of these early Texas settlers and their way of life. Czech contributions to the ethnic diversity of Texas are highlighted in this comprehensive exhibit. Displays include a variety of Czech artifacts, coins, Bibles, costumes, and antique musical instruments, and there is an extensive library with historic documents dating back to the 1700s. The museum is open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. weekdays, and admission is free. Railroad & Heritage Museum Housed in the restored 1910 Santa Fe Depot, the Railroad & Heritage Museum celebrates 100 years of Temple railroad history. The depot includes a working Amtrak station along with the museum, which depicts railroad history and local heritage. Exhibits include railroad equipment, model trains, a telegraph room, and listening stations for train communications, with observation windows overlooking the BNSF main line. Locomotives, cabooses, and passenger cars are displayed outside. The museum is positioned within walking distance of the community-built Whistle Stop Playground and is open Tuesday– Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and Sunday, noon – 4 p.m. There is an admission fee. 60
Temple Chamber of Commerce