The Junction Eagle - 2024 Visitor's Guide

The friendly staff at Junction Automotive, from left, Jessie Rae Cantrell, holding Savannah Powers, Skyler Duran, Connie Stapp and Ricky Alvarado invite y’all to come in and check out all they have in stock.

CONTENTS

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

LETTER FROM THE KIMBLE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

TOURING JUNCTION & KIMBLE COUNTY

SOUTH LLANO PADDLING TRAIL

PUT-IN & TAKE-OUT LOCATIONS

KAYAKING ON THE S.

BIRD

FLY

FISHING

KIMBLE COUNTY, OUTLAW COUNTRY!

CRIMINAL TRESPASS

TTU-JUNCTION

RODEO WEEKEND

LABOR DAY WEEKEND

ROOSEVELT/LONDON CHRISTMAS

DEER HORN TREE

VIEW FROM LOVERS LEAP

WORSHIP WITH US

MESSAGE

Welcome visitors!....to one of the most beautiful areas in the great state of Texas! I know, I know.....everybody says it. I encourage you to come see for yourselves. With miles of running water for fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and camping under the dark, star-filled skies....adventurers to Kimble County find that their experiences in “The Land of Living Waters” far exceed expectations.

To those of you interested in escaping fast-paced urban life, you’ll find that your time here can be as tranquil and restorative as you want it to be. Still, throughout the spring and summer months, there are fun activities, with a casual country flavor, for you to explore and enjoy. Think rodeos, parades, golfing, disk golfing, cool, smooth water….fat fish! You’ll find more about these in this guide for visitors such as yourselves.

And, if it’s hunting you’re interested in, this is the place to be! There’s some venison on the hoof waiting for you in Kimble County.

In this guide, we’ve provided a sampling of the resources and activities available during your visit here. We’ve also included a bit of the interesting history specific to this region, and info on exciting new improvements in the works around our county.

I thank the staff of The Junction Eagle for the extra time and hard work required to prepare this publication. Asia Happner took the lead in putting together this “Visitor’s Guide”, a major project in addition to her regular responsibilities at the paper, and I think she did an excellent job….again! Apparently, I’m not the only one who appreciates our guides, as we consistently get requests for them from folks around the state and the country, plus, they are used by the Chamber of Commerce to distribute to folks who want to know more about Junction and Kimble County.

We are so grateful to the several authors who have contributed to this guide and to the shutterbugs who have shared their pictures. We asked for photos to highlight the beauty and activities of Kimble County. We were wowed at the gorgeous photos we received from Alaina Fell, Ashley Putnam, Aubrey Udall, Brenda Caillouet, Clay Sterrett, Debbie House, India Houser, Jessica Gardner-Elkins, Jimmy Kistler, Kathy Palladini, Kendra Powers, Laura Skinner, Monica Barrera, Saydee Meadow, Tina Straus, Travis Trimble, and Wyatt Burton. Thank you for making your photos available to be included here!

Please shop with our advertisers. The businesses who have advertised in this guide are prepared to help you find whatever you need. They appreciate your business and will go out of their way to make sure you are well served, with typical Texas Hill Country hospitality.

Thank you for choosing to visit us. We’ll look forward to seeing you again because visitors to Kimble County tend to return... and return again... and then, often, they decide to stay!

DEBBIE COOPER KISTLER, PUBLISHER

Cover photo was submitted by local photographer Wyatt Burton.

Affordable Air & Heat

Allison Well Service

Best Western

Bierschwale Land Company

Bon Ton Roulete Cabin

Buster’s Laundry

CarQuest

Cooper’s BBQ

Cowboy Cottage

Devil’s Sinkhole

Donut Palace

Elite Automotive

Exciting Events

First State Bank

Gene’s Go Truck Stop

Gipson Construction

Gonzales Cafe

Harames Bros. Paint & Body

Harames Ironworks

Heap Law

Hill Country Fair Association

Hill Country Well Service

Holiday Inn

Homestead & Ranch Real Estate/Traci

Phillips

Isaac’s

Jazzy Cowgirl

Johnson’s Pest Control

Junction A&M Club

Junction Automotive/NAPA

Junction Burger

Junction Eagle Booster Club

Junction Fuels

Junction National Bank

Junction Plumbing

Junction Warehouse

Kevin Wall

Kimble County Historical Museum

Kimble County Sheriff

Korner Store

Kothmann Real Estate

List of Lodging

Lowe’s Market

Lyssy & Eckel Feeds

Motel 6

Piccadilly Pizza

Pizza Junction

RAM

Rocking CR Construction

Rose Law Office

Rowe’s Chevron

Short Stop

Simon Bros. Cafe

Sonic

South Llano Farm

Spring Branch Trading Post

Spurs Liquor

Texas Tech-Junction

Tillman Land

Trey Sullivan Real Estate

West Bear Creek

West Central Towing

The JuncTion eagle

Welcome to beautiful Junction, Texas!

In our humble opinion, you’ve just stepped foot into one of Texas’ friendliest towns. Here in our corner of the state, you will find gorgeous scenic landscapes, beautiful rivers, and numerous recreational opportunities. All of this, plus great shopping, amazing food, and a rich history.

There is a little bit of everything for everyone in Junction. The stores in town offer a wide variety of clothing and jewelry to fit anyone’s taste, furniture and home furnishings, and there are some fantastic resale shops! Our merchants also have all your sporting goods and recreational equipment needs covered…just in case you run out of bait while fishing or misplace your kayak paddle. And if history

is your thing, our excellent Kimble County Historical Museum will fill that need for you. This wonderful museum is chock full of artifacts and all the information you need about Kimble County and Junction.

After all that touring, shopping, and fun on the river, you have probably worked up an appetite. Our town has several options for you. Most of our restaurants are locally owned and we also have a few franchises. From BBQ and Mexican food to all-American classics, Junction is bound to have food to meet your cravings.

If stargazing is your thing, we have you covered! Our night sky friendly community offers a great view of our galaxy. On a clear night, you’ll see stars you swear you have never seen before. We’re so dedicated

to this that our state park, South Llano River State Park, was designated as an IDA (International Dark-Sky Association) Dark Sky Park. We’re not kidding about our night sky around here.

Whether you are here to hunt, fish, swim, kayak, bike, hike, golf, bird-watch, play disc golf, shop, or take in scenic views, Junction has something for everyone. We’re glad you are here and hope you enjoy your stay. If you have any questions or are curious about what Junction has to offer, please drop by the Kimble County Chamber of Commerce office. We love meeting our visitors!

- Mark Arrazola, Kimble County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

We have everything you need to make your camping trip fun and memorable!

•

•

• Hats

•

• Sunscreen

•

• Child’s

• Life Jackets

• Fishing Gear

• Bait

•

•

• Cooking

• BBQ necessities

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• Charcoal

• Lighter Fluid

• USDA Select Beef

• Tents

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• Sleeping Bags

• Air Mattresses

• Beef Jerky

• Beer, Wine & Ice

• Deer Feeders

• Batteries

• Flashlights

• Dried Sausage

• Camouflage Gear

• Film & Cameras

• Ammo

TOURING & KIMBLE COUNTY

by the late Frederica Wyatt

Miles upon miles of pristine waters meander through Kimble County, and the highways and byways along the streams and adjacent hills provide an unusual view of this area of the Hill Country.

The scenery is unsurpassed by any other part of the state. Wildflower drives boasted by neighboring counties pale in comparison to the panoramic countryside of the local area.

Although travelers catch a glimpse of the hills and streams as they travel hurriedly along the Interstate highway bisecting the county, those who opt for a relaxing motor trip can choose other routes via the many roads traversing the area.

A map of the county appears on pages 26 & 27, but because of size limitations, not all the routes in this story are shown. A more detailed map can be picked up at no cost at the Chamber of Commerce of Kimble County, 402 E. Main St.

LOOP 481

Leaving the eastern limits of Junction, a drive along Loop 481 via the overhead suspension bridge, the traveler can view the waters forming Lake Junction as the river blends into a backdrop of Lovers’ Leap and Alta Vista Mountains. By-passing Farm-to Market 2169 and saving its surprises for another trip, the motorist accelerates to climb the steep road carved from the side a mountain named in memory of a legendary Indian couple who leapt to their deaths because their love was forbidden by their tribes.

Before reaching the summit of the hill, a sign beckons to the right to a scenic area, where a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings is an awesome sight. The concrete cross, erected many years ago by the Men’s Bible Class of Junction, and a gigantic Old Glory proudly flies in the breezes adding patriotic emotion to the site. This park area was donated in 1934 by Mrs. Frank L. Wilson in memory of her husband. For some, the access to the overlook is easier if they continue to the top of the hill, turn around, and approach the entrance from the east. Loop 481 continues on

past a roadside park, where the right-of-way is bright with redbud blossoms in the springtime. Ultimately, the loop intersects the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10.

FARM TO MARKET

2169, WEST

If the motorist opts to turn right on 2169 after crossing the suspension bridge (South Llano River Bridge) over Lake Junction, his view will reveal the rugged face of the Lovers’ Leap mountain as the road continues over a bridge above Cedar Creek. The old Scudder Water Hole is at the mouth of the creek as it flows into the South Llano River to the right. To the left on Kimble County Road 181 is the site of the annual pageant staged by local talent each Easter Eve.

Crisp Creek, another marker tells of the early Four-Mile Dam.

South Llano River State Park and Walter Buck Wildlife Management Area are on the left on Park Road 73.

The paved FM 2169 is routed past the rodeo arena, where many horses were raced in days gone by. The facility was erected in 1935 by the Hill Country Fair Association and is still a popular site for staging rodeos. The excellent golf course is adjacent to the arena. The Boy Scout camp grounds, inaccessible to the general public, are next. The 2169 route then leads to the entrance of the Junction Campus of Texas Tech University.

FLAT ROCK LANE

Approaching the Tech entrance, turn right onto Flat Rock Lane and follow the road to the old crossing on the South Llano River.

This is one of the more spectacular views of the sparkling river. Flat Rock Lane will shortly intersect Highway 377.

US HIGHWAY 377, SOUTH

A left turn onto the highway leads to a scenic drive with meandering curves and water crossings. Before the days of modern highways, the river was forded every mile or so as the traveler made his way in a southerly direction.

By the time the southwestern city limits are reached on 377, historical markers will relate the histories of the pioneer Bradbury Settlement and the Christmas Eve killing of young Isaac Kountz by Comanche Indians in 1876. The historic ranch established by John J. Smith is along this route. At

Continuing along 377, the highway crosses Potter and Joy Creeks, and at a distance on the left, Chalk Bluff, at the mouth of the creek bearing the same name, is a familiar landmark. Long ago, tourist cottages were located along the banks of the river, offering a delightful respite for well-todo tourists from the crowded cities. After crossing Fox Hollow, one arrives at the historical site where the pioneer R. M. Turner family established an early ranch.

Crossing Bailey Creek, one finds an historical marker on the left describing an early roundup of a lawless element who “holed up” in the area. The next creek crossing is at Cajac, site of the historic Wooten Cemetery.

A bit further, a crossing of the South Llano River provides a breathtaking glimpse of the beautiful stream. A restored Evergreen schoolhouse, now utilized as a residence, is on the left before crossing a murmuring streamlet known as Fleming Draw.

Another crossing of the South Llano River is imminent, and the view on either side is exceptional. To the right is the mouth of Little Paint Creek. The next surprise comes as the road dips, and there, historic Telegraph Store comes into view. A marker relates the legend and lore of the area. Nearby is the ranch homestead established by the late Governor Coke R. Stevenson, who served in the highest office of Texas from 1941 to 1947.

The motorist continuing on 377 reaches Telegraph Hill, a steep and formidable ascent. KC 120 leads to the Watson Divide, but we advise the winding 377 for the most spectacular views. Home Draw and Christmus

Hollow (so named for pioneer Theophilus Christmus — not “Christmas”) are to be approached with caution. In the distance, one can catch a glimpse of Paint Creek and its adjacent bluff. Further along, a deep canyon on either side of the road is Bowie Creek, for the legendary Jim Bowie of Alamo fame.

Shortly, one approaches the dividing line between Kimble and Edwards counties. For those wishing to continue their southward journey, sites in the next county include Seven Hundred Springs (inaccessible to the public except for one Saturday each year when Connie Sue Low, chairman of Kimble County Historical Commission, is privileged to host a “day at the Springs” for all interested persons).

Further along, there is a roadside park overlooking Contrary Creek as it unites with the South Llano River. The Guthrie Crossing of the Llano is near the old Paint Rock Springs, a stop on the Fort McKavett-Fort Terrett-Fort Clark Military Road.

STATE HIGHWAY 41

As you near the “top of the world”, Highway 41 leads east to the Garvin Store area. Several dry crossings of the headwaters of Paint Creek are along this route. If you choose to continue on 377 to Rocksprings, you pass the entrance to the Devil’s Sinkhole.

We suggest you opt for Highway 41 and travel until you reach Highway 83, and then turn left to return to Interstate 10 east of Junction. A portion of the famous Y-O Ranch is along the 83 route, and the ranches along the way reflect a memory of the Old West. You will traverse a part of Kerr, Edwards, and Kimble counties as you pass this way.

US HIGHWAY 83

Following Interstate-10 westbound into Junction, a right turn on US Highway 83 will lead into Menard County and on to the northern limits of the

Ashley Putnam

TOURING & KIMBLE COUNTY

lower “48”.

As one passes the entrance to the airport, the Callan Graham Field, and the Coke R. Stevenson Memorial Center, an historical marker tells of the Christmas Eve killing of Sam Speer in the Indian attack of 1876.

An adjacent marker relates the history of the first court held in Kimble County. The site was in the distance, along the main waters of the Llano River.

The county seat, in 1876-77, was old Kimbleville, but no courthouse had been built, so the court sessions were held under the spreading canopy of oak trees.

US Highway 377, northeast, directs a traveler to London, but that course can be earmarked for another trip!

A steep incline known as Foley Hill on 83 is ascended as the valley of the Llanos is left behind. The ranch country is scenic and a delight for sightseers, as wildflowers, blossoming redbud trees, and sumacs line the highway. Crossings of the headwater draws of Gentry Creek are some of the landmarks with informational signs erected by the Texas Department of Transportation. The roadside park along the way provides an invitation for a relaxing “break” for the traveler.

As the highway nears the northern

limits of Kimble, a country lane (KC 370, popularly known as “Whiskey Road”) leads to London. But, continuing on 83, the head draws of Big Saline Creek are ahead.

FARM-TO-MARKET 1773

The next “fork in the road” is FM 1773, also known as Palmer School Road. That road leads to London, and if time permits, a traveler may want to return home via that route.

FARM TO MARKET 1221

At the intersection of 1773 and 1221, the Saline Community will be along the way. Several dry crossings of Little Saline Creek are encountered, and the historic cemetery and school are interesting landmarks of the Little Saline Community just over the line in Menard County.

US HIGHWAY 377, NORTHEAST

If the traveler chooses to take the 377 exit near Junction, he will find unexpected sites along the way. Gentry Creek, and the cemetery bearing the name of the pioneer Raleigh Gentry family, are landmarks along this route. Teacup Mountain, an unusual geological formation, is on the left as you view the Bradbury Mountains and Mesa Flats. A county road (KC 314) is on the right before reaching the ruins of the Teacup School. On 377, Reynolds (or Runnels) Peak is on the left, and Red Creek lies just ahead. To the

right, FM 3480 crosses the creek and connects with FM 385. But continuing to travel in a northeasterly direction on 377, one reaches Reichenau Gap, where an historical marker relates the history of Adolph Reichenau and his namesake gap in the hills.

A short bridge spans the Big Saline Creek on the approach to London. The community cemetery is on the right, and signs mandate a slower pace through the little town. The post office was established in 1882, as related by an historical marker.

Churches, businesses, a dance hall, residences, a community hall and fire station are proof the town is alive and well. A capsule history of London is revealed on a marker at the community hall. A short distance away, Highway 377 passes the tri-county intersection of Kimble, Mason and Menard. The highway leads directly to Mason.

FARM TO MARKET 2169

East FM 2169 at Junction basically follows the route known as the Old Spanish Trail.

It was a portion of the San Antonio to Fort Terrett Road. Near town, it is now a corridor leading to local industries. As one leaves the northeast limits of Junction on 2169, he finds an historical marker telling of “Old Oliver,” a pecan variety developed by the late Y. P. Oliver. The ancient river bed known as “The Bogs” is twice forded before the traveler reaches Cloud Point, halfway between St. Augustine, Florida, and San Diego, California, on the OST. To the left, on private property, is the 1879 rock home built by William J. Cloud. A marker adjacent to the one for Cloud Point, gives a brief history of the settlement established by Alfred P. Browning and John A. Miller.

On further, three low-water crossings provide a breath-taking vista of Johnson Fork Creek. The next intersection is at Segovia, a namesake of a city in Spain. A turn to the left will take one past a crossing of Sycamore Creek and on up the “big hill”. FM 479 is on the left, but for this time, we suggest staying with the 2169 route.

India Houser

Wyatt Burton

TOURING & KIMBLE COUNTY

The road crosses under Interstate 10 and leads past Joy Creek and other streams and draws.

US HIGHWAY 290

Signs will point the way until one reaches Highway 290, where an overpass on Interstate 10 will take one to the designated route eastward. Here again, several dry draws near the heads of streams are crossed, including Little Devil’s and the Pedernales Rivers. FM 479 is by-passed before turning left on FM 385.

FARM TO MARKET 385

FM 385 in the eastern part of the county provides an unusual vista of the Blue Mountains. The White Bluff community is along this route between Harper and London.

The road crosses Falls Prong, Little Devil’s River and James River, and the descent down Coffey Hill is exciting.

The Brown community and its cemetery is along the way. This is the route traveled by Don Francisco Amangual and his cortege in 1808 while mapping a road to Santa Fe. One of the more enchanting views along this passage is from Jones Hill, as travelers descend into the Llano River Valley.

Just before the crossing on the Llano (known today as Yates Crossing, but in an earlier time, as Beef Trail Crossing), FM 1871 winds into Mason. Along 385, one continues a drive that will culminate at the intersection with Highway 377, three miles south of London. We suggest stopping south of Yates to read the legend of the Beef Trailing Crossing etched on an historical marker. A waterfall empties Red Creek into the Llano above Yates Crossing. During rainy seasons, when the creek is flowing, the waterfall is a captivating sight.

FARM TO MARKET 1871

FM 1871 is another scenic route, and it is reached by a turn from FM 385.

Myriad creeks are crossed as one journeys toward Mason. Along this road is the site of the John L. Jones Ranch, memorialized by an historical marker. A highway sign denotes the Blue Mountain community, and the road passes an intersection with the James River Road. In Mason County, another crossing of the Llano offers a splendid view. Known familiarly as

White’s Crossing, the river is an enticement for sightseers and anglers.

FARM TO MARKET 479

Another distinctive route near Junction is FM 479 off Highway 2169, east. This course is within the bounds of the Blue Mountains, and the unpaved county route (KC 420) known as Blue Mountain Road, connects 479 with 385. However, if one continues eastward on 479, he will cross Jim Little Creek and enjoy glimpses of wildlife along the way. Just before reaching the James River, the road passes near the old homestead of frontiersman and Texas Independence veteran Creed Taylor. Immediately left, are the remains of a post office, known as Noxville since 1912. This was “new” Noxville, for the original Noxville is several miles further along this course. The communities were named for Noah Nox, who settled in the area long ago.

KC 443 is near “new” Noxville and connects FM 479 with US 290.

The ranching country is scenic, and one leaves “old” Noxville to the left as the stream known as Little Devil’s River is spanned by a low-water concrete bridge. The Noxville School, built in about 1880, is still standing (but is now on private property.) The Noxville Cemetery is some distance off the traveled road on KC 473. More ranches are traversed before travelers reach the intersection of 479 with 290, a short distance south of the town of Harper.

FARM TO MARKET 2291

Following another scenic road, the traveler is greeted by water crossings, mountain scenery, and historic sites along FM 2291, northwest of Junction. The route can be accessed via IH-10, about six miles west of Junction at the Cleo exit ramp.

After the first crossing of Bear Creek, what appears to be a “mirage” appears on the horizon. Actually, it is a three-story mini-castle built by Englishman William Hall in the 1890’s. He named the structure “Brambletye,” and a capsule history is related on the historical marker there.

Nearby is the site of one of the first settlements in Kimble County, and an historic cemetery adjacent to the road has been in use since 1870.

Old US 290 Bridge at Segovia

Another crossing of the creek is just ahead, and one will pass the site of the first Murr ranch in Kimble County. Henry and Adam Murr, natives of Pennsylvania, settled in Kimble after their discharges from the Army at Fort McKavett.

Shortly after again crossing historic Bear Creek (this is the west tributary of the creek and was once known as Viejo), a traveler will approach the site of the historic Morales Ranch. Nearby is Cleo, once a thriving post office. The Bear Creek schoolhouse still serves as a community gathering place.

Two more crossings of Bear Creek are ahead on 2291, as the traveler continues northward. Ranches are on either side of the road, and the old Spiller schoolhouse sits to the right of the paved road.

This route is the pre-1941 JunctionMenard Highway, and 2291 eventually leads into the town of Menard.

FARM TO MARKET 1674

FM 1674 follows a westerly direction out of Junction. This segment of highway was once a part of Highway 290, also known as a portion of the Old Spanish Trail. The road crosses Elm Slough, draining from the north, before one catches a glimpse of the

North Llano River near Falls Creek. Two historical markers near the Bolt Ranch relate interesting history.

A campsite of Marquis de Rubi in 1767 was at the junction of Bear Creek with the North Llano River, and during the settlement of the county, a Texas Ranger camp was at the same location.

The six-mile crossing of the North Llano on 1674 is a short distance past the turn off to 2291. Some creeks (dry except in the wet season) include Nixon Draw and Calf Creek. Ten-mile crossing of the Llano just past KC 2731 provides another scenic view. In an autobiography, Peregrinations of a Pioneer Printer, J. Marvin Hunter wrote of a trip in 1898, “The distance to Sonora (from Junction) was sixtyfive miles, and the road was not much more than a cow trail. I remember we went up the North Llano for twenty miles, crossing that beautiful stream many times. It was in the month of March, and while glorious Spring had not yet burst forth, the scenery along the route was entrancing, and the rippling waters and overhanging crags presented a grandeur that cannot be described by my pen.” FM 1674 forks as one leaves KC 274 to the left. The route of 1674, straight ahead, will ulti-

Wyatt Burton

Kaylei Jameson

TOURING & KIMBLE COUNTY

mately lead to ranches located in the Bois d’Arc area of the county. We suggest a right turn, where an underpass on IH-10 allows the traveler to continue a journey past Stark Creek and on to the Copperas community. The historic cemetery, school, and the old Methodist Church are located there.

After a crossing of Copperas Creek, a sign on FM 1674 notes that Ft. McKavett is some miles to the north.

LOOP 291

Continuing on the route first taken, Loop 291 will take one to an overpass of the interstate highway and lead to the Buck Hollow community. A bridge spans the North Llano just above its confluence with Maynard Creek, and the traveler continues on to another interstate underpass, where the community of Roosevelt is on the horizon. The Presbyterian Church that doubles as a community center is on the left, as well as the remnants of the old schoolhouse. A nearby marker relates the Fort McKavett-Fort Clark-Fort Terrett military road traversed the countryside at this location.

The historic Roosevelt post office, Lyssy and Eckel Feeds, Simon Brothers Mercantile, Backdoor Cafe and several residences are located at this townsite.

After leaving Roosevelt in the background, the River Road (KC 260) is on the right. The current route continues up the steep incline known as Roosevelt Hill. After reaching the summit, a left turn again takes the traveler over IH-10 and then the access road continues parallel to the Interstate in a westerly direction.

SUTTON COUNTY ROAD

Sutton County is just ahead, but a short drive a bit further will add a delight to the trip. Another overpass is negotiated, and the county road offers an outstanding vista of the landscape as the route dips into the North Llano River Valley near the Cedar Hill Church of Christ. Turning left, one finds the serenity of Camp Allison is phenomenal. Shortly, the road bypasses the Cedar Hill School just before another fording of the river. Eventually, the road will lead past old Fort Terrett, now a ranch headquarters. The fort is on private property and not open to the general public. The route leads back to the

IH-10 access route, where a left turn will lead to the overpass, and one’s course is retraced back to Roosevelt.

KIMBLE COUNTY ROAD 260

Although KC 260 is unpaved, the drive is worth the effort of pacing to a slow speed and enjoying the surrounding beauty of the river and the hills. At the southwestern edge of Roosevelt, the road is accessed. It winds along the North Llano River; hence, the local name “River Road”. This was the old Junction-Sonora highway and was a part of the OST route in earlier days.

Along 260 is the Cedar Hill Cemetery, and we suggest returning to Roosevelt from this point. A river crossing just beyond the cemetery is a bit treacherous to the novice driver and to those unfamiliar with the riverbed’s eccentricities.

FARM TO MARKET 1674, NORTH

Still another interesting route is FM 1674 as it traverses the countryside on the way to old Fort McKavett, now a State Historical Park. That site is one of the best preserved frontier forts in the state.

Both East and West Copperas Creeks flow along 1674 on its northbound route.

A marker will tell of the site known as the Coalson-Pullen Settlement. The Murr Community, with its neighborhood church near the highway, is “out this way”.

After reaching the Fort, a left turn is toward Sonora, while a right turn will lead into Menard.

KIMBLE COUNTY ROAD 370

In the northeastern part of Kim-

ble, County Road 370 west of London between Highways 377 and 83 was dubbed “Whiskey Road,” probably because it was a direct route between London’s dance hall and the liquor store just over the line in Menard County. Today, the road has many crossings of Big Saline Creek before reaching a plateau. There are ranches and a subdivision of rural homes.

KIMBLE COUNTY ROAD 321

Nearer Junction, the Pipe Line Road, so named because the TexasNew Mexico Pipe Line’s facilities were erected along the route, is actually KC 321, off FM 2169.

A wondrous view of Johnson Fork Creek is along this route, and after a while, after winding past mountain peaks and crags, a spectacular view of the Llano River greets the eye. At the end of the road, a decision must be made whether to take the left or the right fork. If one turns left, the Grobe Crossing of the river is a short distance away. This route, KC 314, leads to an intersection with 377.

KIMBLE COUNTY ROAD 320

The right fork of the road will bring surprises. A wondrous view of the river is ahead as the road (KC 320) parallels the stream for a distance. Both Sycamore and another stream known as Cedar flow into the river along the way. The historic Ivy Chapel and School are along this route.

The county road eventually intersects FM 385.

KIMBLE COUNTY ROAD 210

The county road known as KC 210 off FM 2291 leaves Cleo behind as it meanders west with scenic crossings of West Bear Creek. Even the head draws are spectacular, although they are mostly devoid of water except during the rainy seasons. Once upon a time, a post office serving the ranches of the area was located along the way and was known as Roca Springs. The road intersects the Fort McKavett Road (FM 1674).

KIMBLE COUNTY ROAD 450

An account of country lanes would be incomplete without mention of the old Segovia Road (KC 450) This

was a part of the old Fort Terrett to San Antonio Road, and later a portion of the Old Spanish Trail. The road winds easterly from the Segovia Truck Stop complex, and first crosses Sycamore Creek. The Segovia schoolhouse, now a private residence, is on the right, and the remains of a oncethriving post office are adjacent to the road.

Two crossings of Johnson Fork Creek are along this course, and the Johnson Fork Settlement, founded by the Joys and other families, is commemorated by an historical marker near a Johnson Fork tributary known as Joy Branch. Remnants of old rock fences can be seen along the road. One can enjoy a panoramic view of Joy Valley as a steep hill is ascended. The end of the road intersects with FM 2169.

KIMBLE COUNTY ROAD 410

Another county road that bears mention is KC 410. It crosses Johnson Fork Creek and after meandering on a plateau, dips suddenly into the Sycamore Valley. KC 410 is a link between 2169 and the Blue Mountain Road.

Because of space constraints, this article has touched on only a few of the many country lanes in Kimble County.

They are maintained by the county, but they criss-cross private properties. It is well for each motorist and passenger to remember that all flora, fauna, driftwood, rocks and the like belong to and are under the control of the landowner and should not be taken from along the road. Some roads are dead-ends with no outlet, while others are a short-cut between heavier traveled roads.

Slow speeds and careful driving are a must, as many of these routes are caliche-based and unpaved. Their locations are along streams, for in bygone days, it was a must to have water nearby for weary travelers, for horses used for transportation and for livestock being driven overland.

Enjoy your drive “off the beaten path” in Kimble County.

Wyatt Burton

South Llano Paddling Trail

Access sites:

South Llano River State Park (DD) 30.44980°, -99.81277°

Flatrock Lane Crossing (DD) 30.47888°, -99.77771°

Junction City Park (DD) 30.48786°, -99.76165°

Driving Directions to Access Site:

Put-in: South Llano River State Park: The put-in for this paddling trail is located at the river crossing just inside the South Llano River State Park. To reach the park, travel Interstate 10 to Junction, then go south on US Highway 377 for 5 miles to Park Road 73.

Take-out: Junction City Park: The take-out for this paddling trail is located in Junction’s City Park on the north bank of Junction Lake just east of the bridge over the lake. To reach Junction’s City Park, travel Interstate 10 to Junction. Follow Main St. or TX-481 Loop to the north side of Junction Lake bridge, also known as South Llano bridge.

Alternate Access Site: Flatrock Lane Crossing: The alternate access, located at Flatrock Lane crossing, may be used for a take-out or as a put-in. To reach Flatrock Lane crossing, travel Interstate 10 to Junction, then go south on US Highway 377 approx-

access areas.

Distance from nearest major cities (in miles):

Abilene - 145

Austin - 142

Dallas - 274

Del Rio - 123

Fredericksburg - 64

Kerrville - 57

Lubbock - 274

San Antonio - 118

San Angelo - 98

Waco - 218

Trail Description and Landmarks

Trail Length: 6.3 miles

Float Times: ~2 to 4 hours (depending on water level, flow rate, and wind speed)

NOTE: Alternate Access Point at Flatrock Lane Crossing can be used as a put-in or take-out site:

South Llano River SP — Flatrock Lane Crossing: 4.7 miles, about 2 hours

Flatrock Lane Crossing

Junction City Park: 1.6 miles, 1 hour

This beautiful, spring-fed river contains a variety of water types, including quiet pools, riffles, and runs. Be sure to take along fishing gear and binoculars as the South Llano River is home to abundant quantities of the state fish of Texas, the Guadalupe Bass, and

levels are low. Heavy rains and high water can create dangerous conditions.

The clean, clear waters of the South Llano River are unrestrained by flood control dams or other man-made structures along this stretch of river. As such, the South Llano River is readily influenced by rainfall runoff that may create temporary high flows and undesirable water quality conditions. Flow information.

Fishing

This section of the river supports numerous Guadalupe and largemouth bass, several species of sunfish, and catfish. Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits, and light-line are recommended.

banks. All three species of kingfishers (ringed, green, and belted) reside along the river; along with phoebes, egrets, herons, wood ducks, and a variety of migratory songbirds in the spring and early fall. The sycamore, pecan, elm, and oak trees growing along the river provide shelter and significant winter roost habitat for Rio Grande wild turkeys. Other common wildlife encountered include white-tailed deer, squirrel, rabbits, fox, beavers, bobcats, and armadillos. Exotic deer such as axis, black buck antelope, and fallow deer may also be spotted.

Private Property

Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. This river is classified as navigable, which perpublic use of the streambed if necessary, the banks to portage (go around) any hazard. However, when encountering an obstruction in the riverbed, one take a direct path around return to the streambed without lingering on the banks. other use of private river banks without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal (§30.05), criminal trespass occurs when one enters property receiving notice not to enter. Notice includes verbal notice, a fence, sign(s), purple paint on or trees, or the visible presof crops grown for human consumption.

Debbie House

Paddling Put-in & Take-out Locations

SOUTH LLANO RIVER MAP

KC 314

TPWD Day Parking

KC 150: text 325-446-3154

Cupgrass: text 512-407-9357

Day parking for paddling trail only (no fishing or hanging out). You must text make and model of vehicle to landowner number above.

* The only suitable stretch recommended for tubing.

If tubing or kayaking is your heart’s desire, the South Llano Paddling Trail at Junction is one of 38 official Texas Paddling Trails. The views are spectacular!

The designated “trail” begins southwest of Junction at the South Llano River State Park, continues downstream to Flatrock Crossing and ends at Junction Schreiner Park (City Park) above the dam.

Kayakers or canoers can leave a vehicle downstream or hire a shuttle service for launch or pickup. Parking is available at the South Llano River

State Park for a small fee and is free at Schreiner Park.

Those planning to float or paddle the river are encouraged to visit the South Llano River State Park office for river condition information and cautions, approximate paddling times and fishing and current wildlife info.

There are small rapids, occasional riffles and runs, but the river is relatively flat. Groups of friends and families will have an enjoyable time floating one of the most pristine rivers in Texas.

Kayaking on the S. Llano River

Your core’s the secret, with a pizza box

by Debbie Cooper Kistler

OK, let me start out by admitting that I’m no kayaking expert; I’m not even all that experienced, but I do love to “go kayaking”. I cherish spending the time on the South Llano river, soaking up “nature”. The calm...the serenity...the smells...the beauty...the peace and quiet. Ahhhhh....

But then, once upon a time, there was an incident that was the opposite of peaceful. While kayaking the S. Llano, I angled into a small tributary. As I explored the shallow waterway, I espied some low hanging branches just ahead along the river bank. I quickly leaned back over the back of my kayak in order to glide under, rather than go around them, but I sorta got caught in some small, webby ones that turned out to be a black widow condo! As I thrashed, I became aware that a spider or three had joined me in my kayak. I bailed out. I took up my paddle and I commenced pounding and flailing the spiders. After several violent minutes of this, my husband made the following observation, “Debbie, I’m pretty sure the spiders

are dead and I think your kayak is in danger.”

Undeterred by the dangers that I then realized lurked along the river banks, I was determined to continue to enjoy kayaking. Because I am a female with little upper body strength and due to my advancing years, I have found it necessary to

sheriff allen Castleberry

deputies:

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terry CHaney

stepHen wHerry

matt suttle

mattHew CHristian

natHan green

H.t. CooKe

will allen

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admin assistants:

MisTy PhilliPs

emily vanCKHoven

Kelli

Jailers:

Harames-admin

Jeff adKins

Kyle storms

JaKe Biggs

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reserve

deputies:

randy milliCan-eoC

Travis Brown

setH BarClay

riCK davis

dispatCh:

will CHapmanlead dispatCHer

travis trimBle

Clarissa romo

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JImmy Kistler

improve my technique, rather than powering my way through. For example, I can no longer power my way down the ski slopes, depending on my thigh muscles to make up for my lack of proper technique. I’ve had to learn to finesse the moguls. Likewise, I have had to improve my paddling technique in order to kayak without exhausting myself.

From the New York Times (What? Doesn’t everybody seek paddling technique info from that left-leaning broadsheet?), I learned, “...proper kayaking technique is that the movement is a twisting one, not a pulling one,” and “Before you even get into the boat, stand up and hold the paddle out in front of you with both hands, slightly more than shoulder width, and elbows straight like you are a mummy or maybe a zombie. Imagine that the square space between your arms, chest and the paddle is a pizza box. Now pretend to paddle, but don’t break the pizza box.” Ok…I can do that…I’m familiar with pizza boxes…. maybe too familiar.

Now, according to the NYT, “The point is to keep your elbows relatively straight and rotate from the torso. When the elbow bends, the arms take over and that spells exhaustion and shoulder pain. Standing next to the boat, simply swivel your hips from side to side so that the zipper on your life jacket swings back and forth. This is the movement you want.”

Good posture is crucial. Torso rotation is what it’s about. “This is the secret, the difference between frustrated exhaustion and effortless paddling: Hold the paddle with your arms but use your core to move it. If you keep your elbows relatively straight, you should feel the pull in your stomach on each side

as you twist. Engaging the legs helps. If you are paddling on the right, push with your right foot on the pegs or foot rests to lock in the core. You want to push on the same side you’re paddling rather than just rotating from the waist up, you’re actually rotating from the hips.” Paddling correctly, as described here, can extend your range, allow you to explore more, increase your opportunities and strengthen your abs while limiting fatigue. Just remember to beware of low-hanging branches!

Kayaking Safety Essentials

Individual Responsibilities

• Wear a lifejacket

• Be a competent swimmer

• Take a class / obtain the knowledge

• Boating alone is discouraged

• Know how to self-rescue

• File a float-plan

• Have the proper equipment

• Match your abilities to the venue

• Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics

• Paddle Safe, Paddle Smart and Know Your Limits

Donuts

Sprinkle

Cake

Old Fashion

Blueberry Cake

Filled - raspberry, lemon, Bavarian

Twists - chocolate, glaze, cinnamon

Eclairs - chocolate, maple

Apple Fritters

Cinnamon Rolls

Donut Holes

Croissants

Bacon, egg w/cheese

Sausage, egg w/cheese

Ham, egg w/cheese

Sausage w/cheese

Ham w/cheese

Plain croissant

Breakfast Kolaches

Small pig, no cheese

Small sausage w/cheese

Large sausage w/cheese

Large jalapeno w/cheese

Boudin w/cheese

Biscuits

Sausage, egg w/cheese

Bacon, egg w/cheese

Sausage biscuits

Bacon biscuits

Sausage biscuits & gravy

Lunch Combination fried rice

Combination noodles

Sweet & sour chicken

Beef & broccoli

Egg rolls

COUNTY PARK

The County Park lies just across the South Llano River from Schreiner Park. It can be accessed by going east across the South Llano River Bridge and taking the first left. The park closes each night at 10 p.m., and no overnight camping is permitted. Also, public consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.

On both the south and north ends of the park are restrooms and playground equipment. The park also contains sand volleyball courts, a basketball facility and part of the local disc golf course.

Throughout the entire park, wheelchair-access walkways connect the various improvements to private picnic areas, where families can gather to cook on BBQ pits and grills.

The natural assets of the park site are numerous. Large pecan trees provide a canopy of spring/summer shade, and the view across the small lake into Junction is picturesque. The park also features a canoe launch, allowing those with watercraft easy access. By paddling around the lake and upstream a bit, an angler can gain access to great fishable water.

SCHREINER

PARK

JUNCTION’S PUBLIC POOL & SPLASH PAD

Don’t let Junction’s small town population fool you! The Schreiner Park (City Park) boasts a large public pool with a splash pad for children.

The pool and splash pad are usually open from late May until the beginning of August, Tuesdays-Sundays, closed on Mondays. Regular swim usually takes place in the afternoon with adult swim in the morning. A designated “family night” takes place a couple nights a week. The pool and splash pad area can also be booked for parties.

Swimming lessons for beginners, intermediate and advanced swimmers are also available.

An updated pool schedule and pool contact list will be posted on the City of Junction website prior to this summer’s swim season.

Located along the western bank of the South Llano River, just below the historic metal suspension bridge that leads from town to Interstate 10, Schreiner Park, also known as City Park, bids welcome to locals and visitors alike.

A dam spans the river at the park, creating a reservoir that provides Junction with drinking water. Lake Junction, as some call it, is an attractive location for fishermen who want to set up a lawn chair and fish from the bank. The park is dotted with picnic tables and barbeque pits, and throughout the spring and summer, families can be seen gathering for outdoor meals, reunions and even washer-pitching. Organizations use it for group events.

There is a large pavilion which provides a covered gathering place. Located next to the pavilion, a basketball court is available. Part of the local disc golf course is also available. The park also contains a pool complex.

Public consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.

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Whether camping on the river or staying in one of Junction’s other quality lodging options, be sure to take a look at the night sky before you rest your head on a comfy pillow.

Kimble County’s distance from any major city has aided in its low light pollution and has made it a perfect spot to get a spectacular view of the night sky.

In 2017, the South Llano River State Park became “Dark Sky Approved” by the International Dark Sky Association. The park ranks “3” on the Bortle Scale, which ranks skies numerically from 1 to 9 (with 1 being the darkest skies and 9 being least dark). This darkness provides visitors to the park with a spectacular view of the stars. This designation will ensure the protection of the dark skies not only within the park boundaries, but also for the local community and outof-town guests.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife website offers a variety of interactive resources to make the most of your stargazing experience.

• Real-Time Dark Sky Monitoring

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• Spot the Space Station

the South Llano River State Park Facebook page for night sky event updates.

TAKE A SWING AT THE JUNCTION GOLF COURSE GOLF

The Junction Golf Course is known for its beautiful scenery, wildlife and tranquility. It is located at the foot of Lover’s Leap, a scenic overlook of the city of Junction, the Easter Pageant grounds and the Hill Country Fair Association facilities.

Volunteers worked tirelessly to build the course in 1926….raising money, removing rocks, clearing trees, hauling dirt and building ponds. Today, the course is operated and maintained by the 50+ members of the Junction Golf Club.

All golfers are welcome to play. Usually,

no tee times are required, but with the limited number of carts, you may need to call to reserve a cart 325-446-2968 or for information. The course has lots of trees, ponds and a creek that make it a most challenging course.

There are women’s and men’s tee boxes on every hole. The course is open everyday from 8:30 a.m. until dark. There is a scramble each Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. beginning when day light savings time starts. Join the fun, and give the local boys some competition.

Green fees are $25 per person for 18 holes.

Cart rentals are $15. Disc golf players can access the disc golf baskets on the course for $10. Players are welcome to bring their own adult beverages and ice chests. Golf shoes or tennis shoes are to be worn; no boots or shoes with heels are permitted.

There are soft drinks, sports drinks, candy, ice cream and snacks available at the clubhouse. Golf balls, gloves and tees are also available.

Are you ready to test your skills on the links?

DISC GOLF

Disc golf in Junction has grown exponentially over the past 15 years. There are three full 18 basket courses to play in Kimble County: the City Park course, the County Park course, and the Junction ball golf course, where you can rent a golf cart and play in style.

The City Park course (Schreiner Park) offers free tent camping for up to three nights and incredible views, as it is located on the South Llano River. The scenic park has walking paths, picnic areas, a play-

ground, a basketball court, pavilions and lots of shade provided by large old pecan trees.

Disc golf players are welcome year ‘round to enjoy the beautiful setting in the Texas Hill Country. Two tournaments are held annually – the Freezer (unsanctioned) and the Sizzler (sanctioned) offer challenging courses and enticing payouts.

Since the inception of these events, the Junction Lions Club has been sponsoring the Top of Texas Throw off of Lover’s Leap to benefit their local charities and scholarship fund. With its 700-foot drop in elevation, tournament players throw their discs down toward three baskets placed in the Easter Pageant grounds parking lot below in hopes of winning cash prizes.

Come see these incredible courses for yourself or visit Junction Tourism Board’s website for more details.

www.JunctionTexas.com.

DISC GOLF TOURNAMENTS

Sizzler Disc GolfAnnually last weekend in July. July 26-27, 2024

FreezerAnnually last weekend in February

Bird watching

Throughout the year, Kimble County boasts several hundred different species of birds. Whether you are an experienced birder or an admirer of nature, you will likely notice the variety of beautiful winged creatures.

The area’s rivers and numerous streams, as well as its geological and biological diversity, make Kimble County and Junction an excellent area for bird-watching.

Locations are now listed on the Heart of Texas Wildlife Trail West on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website. Among the favored spots on the Trail’s Llano Loop are the Junction wastewater treatment ponds, the Schreiner Park, Texas Tech University at Junction (with advanced permission), the South Llano River State Park and the adjoining Walter Buck Wildlife Management Area.

KIMBLE COUNTY BIRDS

Eared Grebe (winter)

Pied-billed Grebe (winter)

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Cattle Egret

Green Heron

Wood Duck

Green-winged Teal (winter)

Blue-winged Teal (migrant)

Northern Shoveler (winter)

Gadwall (winter)

American Wigeon (winter)

Ring-necked Duck (winter)

Lesser Scaup (winter)

Ruddy Duck (migrant)

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

American Kestrel (winter)

Wild Turkey

Northern Bobwhite

Killdeer

Spotted Sandpiper

Various “peep” sandpipers (migrant)

Rock Dove

White-winged Dove

Mourning Dove

Inca Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Greater Roadrunner

Great Horned Owl

Common Nighthawk

Common Poorwill

Chuck-will’s-widow

Chimney Swift

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Belted Kingfisher

Green Kingfisher

Ringed Kingfisher

Golden-fronted Woodpecker

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker (occasional)

Northern Flicker (winter)

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Vermilion Flycatcher

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Western Kingbird

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Loggerhead Shrike (winter)

White-eyed Vireo

Bell’s Vireo

Black-capped Vireo

Yellow-throated Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

Scrub Jay

Common Raven

Purple Martin

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Cliff Swallow

Cave Swallow

Barn Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Black-crested Titmouse

Verdin

Bushtit

Cactus Wren

Canyon Wren

Rock Wren

Carolina Wren

Bewick’s Wren

Ruby-crowned Kinglet (winter)

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

European Starling

Cedar Waxwing (winter)

Yellow-rumped Warbler (winter)

Black-and-White Warbler

Wilson’s Warbler

Yellow-breasted Chat

Summer Tanager

Rufous-crowned Sparrow

Cassin’s Sparrow

Chipping Sparrow

Clay-colored Sparrow (migrant)

Field Sparrow

Lark Sparrow

Black-throated Sparrow

Savannah Sparrow (migrant)

Song Sparrow (winter)

Lincoln’s Sparrow (winter)

White-crowned Sparrow (winter)

Dark-eyed Junco (winter)

Northern Cardinal

Pyrrhuloxia

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

Painted Bunting

Rufous-sided Towhee

Canyon Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Eastern Meadowlark

Western Meadowlark (winter)

Yellow-headed Blackbird (migrant)

Great-tailed Grackle

Common Grackle

Bronzed Cowbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Orchard Oriole

Scott’s Oriole

House Finch

Pine Siskin (winter)

Lesser Goldfinch

House Sparrow

Just five miles southwest of Junction off Highway 377, the state park offers several high quality wildlife observation blinds. The maintained river habitat and feeding schedules assure that visitors don’t have to be seasoned birders to spot and enjoy the array of birds inhabiting the area.

Wyatt Burton

Monica Barrera

Monica Barrera

Monica Barrera

Monica Barrera

Wyatt Burton

Fly Fishing for Beginners

Even for beginners just starting fly fishing, plenty of enjoyment can be found in this beautiful and fulfilling sport. With a beginner fly fishing kit and a few fly fishing lessons under your belt, you’ll soon see that fly fishing for beginners can be highly rewarding and reap several catches.

FLY FISHING FOR BEGINNERS: TIPS

Don’t listen to anyone who says that this mode of fishing is too difficult for beginner anglers. Once you learn a few fly fishing basics and get the proper gear, starting fly fishing can be a breeze. We’ve put together these basic tips along with an easy-to-follow infographic to make sure you get the best start possible as you learn this wonderful sport.

To help you out, this overview and infographic provides easy to follow steps for beginners interested in starting fly fishing.

FLY FISHING GEAR FOR BEGINNERS

Before you can drift a fly you need some essential equipment. While there is a lot of gear out there, there is no need to feel overwhelmed. A rod, reel, and fly line is really all the fly fishing gear for beginners needed to get you started. Just keep in mind that it’s important to buy quality gear even if it costs a little more money. Poor gear leads to poor performance. In the long run, quality gear is a much better financial and mental investment.

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE

Even with quality equipment, learning to cast while trying to catch fish can be a bit frustrating. The good news is that you don’t need water to practice casting. Any place with enough clearance will suffice, like a backyard. Spend a few hours in the backyard with your gear, practicing one or two casts to have in your repertoire. Follow this tip and you will be far more confident casting during initial trips, which makes fly fishing for beginners that much more rewarding.

UTILIZE FLY SHOPS

There are a lot of aspects to a day of fishing such as the water quality, aquatic life, and

access points. Local fly shops are where you’ll find your greatest resource for information. These guys and gals know everything about the local waters and are very generous with their knowledge. Do yourself a favor and learn from them.

AWARENESS

One of the greatest aspects of fly fishing for beginners is the beauty and serenity surrounding you. But while beautiful, bodies of water can also be hazardous, especially for anglers just starting fly fishing who may apply more of their focus to their flies than their surroundings. Water levels are prone to fluctuation, and rising water is dangerous. Stay on top of river conditions and always check before heading out. When fishing, always keep an eye on the water level, watch your footing, and be stationary when casting.

TIPS TO CATCH SOME FISH

There will be days where catching fish seems impossible. It happens to all of us, but here are some tips to limit those slow days.

Check what bugs are around and find a pattern that imitates them.

Cast upstream to places you think trout might be holding and work from the back of the hole to the front.

Fish seams in the current, obstructions that block current, and water transitions where fish often hold.

HANDLE FISH PROPERLY

If you plan practicing catch and release, it is important that you handle fish, especially trout, correctly. Your goal is to land them as quickly as possible. Playing fish until exhaustion decreases survival rates after release. If you must handle the fish with your hands, be sure they’re wet. Trout are soft-scaled fish and dry hands can cause abrasions and possible infections.

ENJOY THIS BEAUTIFUL SPORT

“Time spent on the trout stream does not detract from a man’s total life.” While not biologically accurate it does illustrate the feeling and spirit of fly fishing and how it can change your life for the better.

Wyatt Burton

FISHING TERMS

Use this helpful fishing glossary to learn the most important fishing terms and what they mean before you get out on the water. This fishing glossary can also be used as a teaching tool for beginning anglers.

BAIT

One of the most common fishing terms, bait refers to an attractant added to a hook to catch fish. Bait includes live and dead baitfish, crabs, crayfish, worms, eels, insects, mussels, clams, cut bait (fish), chicken livers, corn kernels, dough balls, squid, and shrimp, both in their natural and artificial forms.

BLADE BAIT

A weighted, fish-shaped blade made with a swinging hook and designed for fishing deep.

BUZZ BAIT

These “safety pin” wire lures for surface fishing have a propeller blade on one wire and a weighted body, skirt and hook on the other.

CRANK BAIT

A fish-like hard lure or plug designed to swim under the surface, often made of plastic or wood.

CASTING SPOON

A spoon-shaped metal or hard plastic lure that wobbles to attract fish. They can be fitted with a fixed (solid) hook or swinging hook, that has a single, double or treble points.

CHUMMING

A fishing technique by which bait or scent is released into the water to attract fish to take a lure or baited hook. Chum consists of live, dead, ground-up or prepared baits and scents and is used in fresh and saltwater.

FLOAT

Also called a “bobber”, these suspend hooked bait off of the bottom, and signal hits by “bobbing” when a fish takes the bait.

HOOK

A metal wire device shaped like a “J” with an opening or “eye” at one end to which the line is tied and a point at the other end to catch the fish. Circle hooks have an angled point. Double and treble hooks have two or three points, respectively.

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JIG

Sometimes called “bucktails”, these weighted-body (often lead) lures are molded on special hooks and rigged with a hair tail or soft plastic skirt or worm.

JIGGING

One of the more amusing sounding fishing words on the list, jigging describes a method of dropping a lure into the water over a fishing site and moving it - “jigging it” - up and down to attract fish. Done from a pier or boat.

LEADER

A length of monofilament, wire or other stranded material tied between the end of the line and the lure or hook. Leaders provide extra strength or abrasion resistance from the rough mouth and teeth of fish (pike, barracuda, sharks), scales (sharks), gill covers (tarpon and snook), blows from tails (tuna).

LURE

Any artificial item designed to attract fish and fitted with hooks. These include flies, hard plastic or wood lures (or plugs), soft plastic imitations, large offshore skirted baits, metal spoons, lead-head lures (jigs), bladed lures, spinners, spinnerbaits.

LINE

Specialized “string” used for fishing. Nylon monofilament line is the most popular. Other lines are made of different materials, including braided fibers and wire. FLY LINE is a specialized line made of a plastic coating on a core, and often made tapered (changing diameter) to make fly casting easier. (To preserve good fishing, take any discarded line with you when you leave. Discarded line can snag and harm wildlife, and kill fish, turtles, frogs, birds and small mammals.)

REEL

A mechanical device for holding and spooling fishing line. Reels have a line spool, brake to slow running fish, handle to retrieve line and foot for clamping to a rod. Reel styles include CASTING (revolving spool), SPINNING (line coiling off stationary spool); SPINCAST, (like spinning but with a nose cone), and FLY (storing thick fly line/backing and to fight big fish).

ROD

A long lever, usually made of fiberglass, graphite or composite materials and used to catch fish. Different types are available, such as rods for spinning, fly fishing, spincast, bait casting, boat fishing offshore trolling, surf fishing, jetty/pier fishing, etc. Most rods have a reel-holding clamp and guides through which the line runs.

SINKER

A weight of lead or other metals designed to sink a hooked bait or lure.

SNAP

Another of the common fishing terms referring to a small device resembling a dog leash snap, tied to the line and used for attachment and quick release of hooks, rigs and lures.

SOFT PLASTIC LURES

Made of a soft plastic to resemble a worm, lizard, crayfish, shrimp or generic wiggling creature. Often sold in bulk to be rigged on ahooks by the angler.

SPINNER

Spinner blades rotate around the straight wire shaft of these weighted-body treble-hook lures.

SPINNER BAIT

“Safety pin” style wire lures with one or more spinner blades on the end of one wire, and a weighted body, skirt and hook on the other. Used to fish around structure such as trees and stumps.

STILL FISHING

Fishing without moving the bait once it is cast with replaceable soft plastic tails.

STRIKE

Any “hit” by a fish taking a lure or bait.

STRUCTURE SPOON

Both casting and vertical jigging techniques are used for fishing these swinging hook heavy metal lures.

SWIVEL

A small device with two or more eyes (rings) a central swiveling part. They are used between a lure or leader and line to prevent line twist. Otherwise, line twist can occur when a revolving lure twists line to cause tangles.

TACKLE BOX

A box or bag with special compartments and features to hold terminal tackle, lures, hooks, and other fishing gear.

TERMINAL TACKLE

A general term for describing bobbers, sinkers, hooks, rigs, snaps, swivels and other gear used at the end of a line.

TOP WATER LURE

Lures made of hard plastic, wood, hollow rubber/plastic and designed to float on the surface to attract fish when twitched or moved.

TROLLING

A method of slowly running a boat while trailing lures or bait. This fishing method is used to cover a lot of water and to find fish.

TROLLING SPOON

A large spoon that is trailed, or trolled, behind a boat to catch fish.

TUBE BAIT

Made of soft plastic, these tubular lures are fished with special weighted hooks inserted into the hollow body.

WEEDLESS SPOON

Wobbling spoons made with a fixed hook and guard for fishing weeds.

Ashley Putnam

India Houser

Kathy Palladini

Wyatt Burton

Ashley Putnam

Clay Sterrett

Travis Trimble

Saydee Meadow

Jessica Gardner-Elkins

Aubrey Udall

Wyatt Burton

India Houser

Ashley Putnam

KIMBLE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

What started as a distant, maybe unattainable, dream for local folks is now a reality. Kimble County has a new, spacious, functional genealogy/historical museum facility. The county’s former obsolete, “what-are-we-going-to-do-with-it” hospital building has been carefully and beautifully transformed. The multi-year renovation construction is finished, and the historical artifacts, documents, photos, furniture and fixtures have been updated and catalogued and moved from the 1938 American Legion Hut building on Fourth Street.

In addition to the displays featuring the history of Kimble County and the surrounding Hill Country, the museum features one room containing memorabilia from the collection of native son, former Governor Coke R. Stevenson. There is also a dual-room area for the Frederica Burt Wyatt Genealogical Section to be used to facilitate research. A former hospital room has been retained largely intact, complete with Kimble Hospital memorabilia. There are a kitchen area and meeting rooms.

The dream has been realized due to the enormous work and financial support of many, many people. Please check out the new Kimble County Historical Museum at 130 Hospital Dr.

KIMBLE COUNTY LIBRARY & THE O.C. FISHER MUSEUM

Whatever brings you to Kimble County, make plans to stop in for a visit to the local library. The recently remodeled library offers state-of-the-art amenities while at the same time keeping that “small-town and homely charm”.

There are 17 public computers with access to the Internet, free of charge. Public WiFi is also available from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, so feel free to bring your own personal devices as well.

The library offers a wide variety of magazines and newspapers and thousands of books in print, audio materials, and DVDs while also participating in a giant state-wide consortium to offer an almost endless supply of eBooks via the CloudLibrary app.

A beautiful coffee bar can be enjoyed in a relaxing atmosphere next to the newspaper section of the library. Coffee, bottled water, tea and cookies are available on a regular basis. An outdoor patio is also available for those who like to relax with a good book out-of-doors.

Throughout the year, the library offers numerous programs for all age groups, including puppet shows, field trips, read-a-thons, STEM events, summer performers, an epic pumpkin patch festival, Picture with the Grinch, a newly minted gardening club, and much more.

Housed inside the Kimble County Library is the the O.C. Fisher Museum. It contains the memorabilia of US Congressman O.C. Fisher, a Kimble County native who served in Washington for 32 years and was known as “Mr. States’ Rights”. There is a duplication of his D.C. office, and relics of his political life and writings are on display.

Exciting 2024-25 Events!

The Junction Area Farmers Market

Open every Saturday from March -December

KIMBLE COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAWN | 9 AM TO 12:00 PM

Events with live music and free draft beer--March,

May, July, August, October, December

9:00 AM TO 1:00 PM

THEJUNCTIONAREAFARMERSMARKET.COM FOR MORE INFO

Outdoor Women Gone WILDSM

in Kimble County

Saturday, April 20, 2024

RAINS RANCH, 7 MI. S. OF JUNCTION ON US HWY 377

Just for Women! Just for Fun!

700 Springs Ranch Tour

TBA

MEET AT COURTHOUSE IN JUNCTION.

Motorcade leaves PROMPTLY at 10 a.m. for Ranch. Bring Bag Lunch and Lawn Chairs.

For more info: 325.446.4219

Junction A&M Club Scholarship Golf Tournament

April 2024

Dinner & Silent Auction after tournament www.junctionaggies.com fb.com/junctionaggies

Despues de Cinco de Mayo Dance

May 11, 2024

FEATURING MASSORO,for more info: 325.446.3190

Memorial Day Celebration

Memorial Day Monday - May 27

8:30 am - TRIBUTE CEREMONY Honoring Fallen

Veterans & Boy Scouts Troop 420 Placing of Flags

FLAGPOLE AT JUNCTION CEMETERY ON US. HWY 377 S

For more info: 325.446.3157

Cowboys & Cajuns

Together Again

Annually 1st Saturday in June

Saturday, June 1, 2024

ON 5TH STREET BESIDE THE COURTHOUSE

STREET DANCE FAST MOVING TRAIN

DANCE FOR FREE, EAT FOR A FEE CRAWFISH BOIL & COOLER CHARGE APPLIES

7th Annual “Hit for Sticks” Softball Tournament

Benefiting Lexi Cardwell Scholarship Fund

Annualy the Second Saturday of June

For more info: 214.714.5653; 405.808.6959; 325.215.1600

Kimble County

Disc Golf Events

Sizzler | Annually the last weekend of July

Freezer | Annually the last weekend in February

For info: Hoyt Moss 325.446.6565 or Charlie Chapman 512.557.2482

Freedom Celebration

Annually July 4th

Thursday Night—July 4, 2024 Free Fireworks Display! DARK THIRTY • CITY PARK, ALONG THE LLANO RIVER

Sponsored by City of Junction and Kimble County Chamber

Saturday, July 4 PARADE ON MAIN – 10 AM

Celebrate the 4th in Junction!!!

Hill Country Fair Assoc. Summer Classic Rodeo

Annually, 2nd Full Weekend in August- Aug. 9 & 10 HILL COUNTRY FAIRGROUNDS

DANCES & PARADE

gates open at 6:30 pm

Up & Back Boat Race

Adult Race Annually every August - Aug. 17

Kids Race Annually every August - Aug. 18

SOUTH LLANO RIVER - BEGINS & ENDS AT THE DAM

For more info: Hoyt 325-446-5087, Hilary 512-516-9184

Junction’s 56th Annual Kow Kick

Family Fun Festival • BBQ Cook-off • Dance Labor Day Weekend, Sat. August 31, 2024

Lone Star BBQ Society Sanctioned Cook-Off –$5,000 Guaranteed Payout

LIVE Music

• VENDORS • Kids Activities

National Night Out

First Tuesday in October City Park Pavilion 6-8 pm

Hunters Welcome Events

1st Weekend in November

Deer Hunting Season Opens

FRI: Annual Library Bake Sale @ WBC, LOWE’S & PARKER LUMBER

FRI: Hunters Appreciation Lunch

WEST BEAR CREEK GENERAL STORE

Sat: London Hunters Breakfast LONDON COMMUNITY CENTER

Sat: Hunters BBQ Lunch

SIMON BROS. MERCANTILE/LYSSY & ECKEL FEED/ ROOSEVELT

Kimble County WILD Game Dinner

Annually, the Saturday after Thanksgiving November 30, 2024

Eat Wild Game, Win Guns & Hunts & Live Auction of Hunts & Resort Trips!

Christmas Happenings

• CHRISTMAS TRAIL OF LIGHTS - CITY PARK

• LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Annually in December

• CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH

First Saturday in December • 2 - 5 p.m.

SOUTH LLANO RIVER STATE PARK

Fun activities for the Family. For more info: 325.446.3994

• COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CANTATA

Annually in December

FIRST METHODIST CHURCH, MAIN ST.

• Lighted Christmas Parade

MAIN STREET DOWNTOWN, ENDING IN

JUNCTION CITY PARK -

• Lions Club pictures with Santa

Santa Claus will hear Children’s wishes immediately following the parade in City Park under the Trail of Lights.

• Christmas Movie in the Park

PARK PAVILION BY THE BASKETBALL COURT

JUNCTION CITY PARK

Ninth Annual

Junction’s “Trial on the Pecos Trail”

TSDA Sheep Dog Trials

Annually in February

HILL COUNTRY FAIRGROUNDS

www.texassheepdogassoc.org

Annual Predator Calling Contest

Annually in March

Predator Contest with Cash Prizes and Drawing at end of Contest on Sunday

(Must Be Present to Win)

For more info: 325.446.3190

Easter Happenings

Easter Eve Saturday Morning.

CITY PARK PAVILION

LIONS CLUB EASTER EGG HUNT 10 a.m.

AGES 1-10 YEARS

Easter Eve

73rd ANNUAL EASTER PAGEANT

AMPHITHEATER BELOW LOVER’S LEAP • DARK THIRTY

Texclipse Music Festival

April 6-8, 2024

HILL COUNTRY FAIR ASSOCIATION FAIRGROUNDS

For more info: www.texclipsemusicfestival.com

AREA CABINS, CAMP GROUNDS AND RV PARKS

BEAR CREEK PROPERTIES JUNCTION

Off the Cleo Highway, FM 2291, on KC 210 email: markell.rowe70@gmail.com

361.701.8059

BON TON ROULET CABINS ON THE RIVER

10 miles South of Junction on US Hwy 377 S. email: dearnol@yahoo.com 325.446.3154

CHARLIE’S BED ‘N’ BUNK

817.408.7329 or 214.649.1447 905 College email: d.r.h.hospitality@gmail.com

COOL RIVER CABINS

866.41-RIVER 4 Miles East of Junction on Hwy 377 N. on the Main Llano River www.seedsource.com/ecotourism/cabin.asp

COURTHOUSE CASITA

325.446.4620 419 College St. mollyholland1@gmail.com www.airbnb.com

NORTH LLANO RV PARK, 325.446.3138, 2145 N. Main on the N. Llano

SCHREINER PARK (JUNCTION CITY PARK)

Located Along the South Llano River in Town. Swimming, Tables, Bar-be-que Grills, Small Covered Pavilion. (NO RV camping) For Reunions or Large Parties, Please Reserve at City Hall 325.446.2622

Note: Tent Camping Limited to 3 Nights

CUPGRASS CABINS

512.407.9357 glen@southllano.com

THE OUTBACK GUEST HOUSE

817.408.7329 or 214.649.1447

905 College – Back Lot

email: d.r.h.hospitality@gmail.com

SOUTH LLANO RIVER STATE PARK

www.tpwd.state.tx.us 325.446.3994

For Information 1.800.792.1112

For Reservations 512.389.8900

Five Miles from Junction on Hwy 377 S. on the South Llano River

MORGAN SHADY PARK

325.215.2055 600 S. 6th St.

TREE CABINS AT RIVERS BEND

325.446.2224 701 Agarita St.

https://www.facebook.com/Tree-Cabins-atRivers-Bend-1701489573512550

THE RIVER SPOT RV PARK

806.778.1712 312 E. MAIN

CANOE, KAYAK and TUBE RENTALS

KORNER STORE TUBE RENTALS

325.446.8823 601 S. Llano

2 Blocks from Flatrock Crossing

PADDLER’S PORCH

325.446.2829 126 Flatrock Lane

email: paddlersporch126@gmail.com

www.paddlersporch.com

SOUTH LLANO RIVER CANOES & KAYAKS

325.446.2220

Located 6 miles from Junction on Highway 377 South on the South Llano River

TONY’S KAYAKS

830.609.8836, 830.609.8329 or 325.446.3360

315 US Hwy. 377 South

MOTELS

America’s Best Value Inn - LEGENDS INN

325.446.8644 877.445.8444 1908 N. Main

www.abvijunctiontx.com

email: thelegendsinn@gmail.com

LAZY T MOTEL 325.446.2565, 2043 N. Main

BEST WESTERN DOS RIOS

325.446.3700 244 Dos Rios Drive off N. Main www.bestwestern.com/dosrios

ECONOLODGE

325.446.3730 111 Martinez Street econolodgejunction@gmail.com

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES JUNCTION

325.215.4377 304 Dos Rios Drive off N. Main www.ihg.com

HILL COUNTRY INN & SUITES

325.446.3572

200 IH 10 West at Exit 456

RODEWAY INN OF JUNCTION

325.446.4588 877.424.6423 184 Dos Rios Drive off N. Main www.choicehotels.com/ires/html/ RodewayHome

SUN VALLEY MOTEL

325.446.2505, 1611 Main

email: sunvalleymotel@yahoo.com

OYO MOTEL

762.227.1389 311 N. Segovia Access Road

RESTAURANTS

GLORIA’S GONZALES CAFÉ

325.446.4202, 1106 Main

SIMON BROS. CAFÉ

325.446.2604 3179 W. State Loop 291

Behind Lyssy & Eckel Feeds

THE MILKY WAY 325.446.2215, 1619 Main

JUNCTION BURGER CO.

325.446.2695, 1907 Main

COOPER’S BAR-B-Q & GRILL

325.446.8664, 2324 N. Main

DAIRY QUEEN OF JUNCTION

325.446.2121, 2345 Main

COWBOY GRILL 325.446.2775, 2341 N. Main cowboygrilljunction@gmail.com

LUM’S BAR-B-QUE

325.446.3541, 2031 N. Main

ISAACK’S RESTAURANT

325.446.2629, 1606 Main www.isaacksrestaurant.com

LA FAMILIA

325.446.2688, 1927 Main

LONDON GROCERY

325.475.2296

Downtown London, TX, on US Hwy 377 N

MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT

325.446.8005, 2416 N. Main

MAURICIO’S QUICK STOP

325.446.4204 ,1101 Main

PADDLER’S PORCH BAR & GRILL

325.446.2829 126 Flatrock Lane

email: paddlersporch126@gmail.com

PICCADILLY PIZZA

325.446.4524, 1977 N. Main

PILOT FLYING J TRUCK STOP

325.446.2085, 2342 N. Main

SONIC DRIVE INN

325.446.9200, 2337 N. Main

THE DONUT PALACE

325.446.3536, 1815 Main

TIA NENA’S REAL MEXICAN FOOD

325.446.4031, 2429 N. Main

SEGOVIA TRUCK STOP

325.446.3693 115 S. Segovia Access Road

THE HONEY BEAN COFFEE AND TEA COMPANY

325.215.1626 1502 Main St.

Monday-Friday 6am- 4:30pm

Saturday 7am-1pm Closed Sunday

Info@thehoneybeancoffee.com

EL JUNCTION BURRITO & MORE

325.215.1479, next door to CarQuest

AMIGO’S COUNTRY CORNER

325.446.3551 2349 N. Main

KIMBLE COUNTY MARKET

325.446.2432 2350 N. Main

I was raised on cowboy, Indian and outlaw movies. I loved them!

The outlaw gangs of the movies of my youth were populated with hardened, tough-looking characters who would rob a stagecoach and then “hole up” in canyon hideouts, always with a lookout posted atop a high vantage point to watch for approaching lawmen or posses. Remember those scenes....in grainy black and white?

These disreputable gunslingers frequently intimidated the law-abiding citizens into silent submission. These bad guys would sometimes even assume positions of power in the communities. Occasionally, county judges and sheriffs were actually members of the gangs or, at least, turned a blind eye to their “business” practices.

These lawless desperados raided neighboring ranches, stealing cattle and horses, driving them away and then re-branding them. Trail drives heading to the northern railheads were also frequent targets. The ubiquitous, but always fierce, gun play scenes in saloons and out on the dusty streets were exciting-but-a-littlescary to my impressionable young psyche. Jail breaks and escapes were almost always included somewhere in the story.

The Hollywood movies of my childhood never failed to have a few chaotic shoot ‘em up pitched battles, often a face-toface stare down, rapid draw shooting and culminating with dead men strewn about Main Street, and I enthusiastically drank it all in.

Then, there were the Indians; their raiding parties stealing and doing unthinkable deeds, descending upon the homesteads of isolated settlers. In the

mid-50s, when I was a regular, grade school moviegoer (There wasn’t much else to do in my small West Texas hometown.), these depredations were far less lurid and graphic than movie fare today. I remember that sometimes I was pretty sure I’d already seen ole “Walks with Coyotes” in other movies, wearing a suit, sans the black, braided wig and breach cloth!

The good guys, those rowdy, roughbut-handsome, brooding men-of-fewwords would eventually save the day. They’d chase the thieves or Indians away, trailing the desperados for days and weeks if necessary. Think Randolph Scott, Chill Wills, Tex Ritter, Clint Eastwood, Gene Autry, Fess Parker, Gabby Hays, James Garner, Glenn Ford, Rex Allen, Slim Pickens, James Arness, Roy Rogers, Richard Boone, Tom Mix, Jay Silverheel, Audie Murphy,

Joel McCrea, William Holden, Burl Ives, Walter Brennan, Rory Calhoun and, of course, the “Duke”. (By the way, aren’t you glad Ronald Reagan did quit his day job on the movie sets and went on to a higher calling?)

At the most desperate time, when all seemed lost, in would charge the cavalry, stationed at remote outposts and forts, always arriving just in the nick of time. In many of those old movies, posses of town folks joined in the hunt for the fugitives. Sometimes, protection and retribution came from the “frontier guard”. (Later I realized those near-lawless, most rugged and daring individuals were Texas Rangers.)

Then, of course, there were the love stories.....love unrequited, love lost, love thwarted by frontier circumstances.... or another man. Think Miss Kitty and Marshal Dillon in Gunsmoke, Barbara Stanwyck and Gary Cooper in High Noon, Jean Simmons and Gregory Peck in The Big Country, Mareen O’Hara and John Wayne in McLintock and The Spoilers or the Duke and Katherine Hepburn in Rooster Cogburn.

For me, those riveting story lines reflected life as it had been long, long ago, in the far away badlands of New Mexico and Arizona, Nevada and California. I thought “wild west” meant way far west!

What I did not think of was Kimble County Texas!

Yes, siree! All that “wild west” action actually happened right here in Kimble County. Some spilled into nearby counties, and, my great-grandfathers were alive then, living in neighboring counties.

Wow! Who knew!?!?!

Well, it turns out, the late fifth-

Debbie Cooper Kistler

Author, age 11, shooting turtles in the N. Llano River, practicing for her future as a cowgirl movie star

generation Texan Pete Rose knew.....knew a lot. And found out more!

The Reckoning, Rose’s meticulously researched book, lays it all out. The wild west tales I thought had sprung from the imaginations of west coast screenwriters were first, tragically, acted out in the real life dramas of Kimble County’s pioneers.... the good, the bad and the ugly. (I distinctly remember that the bad guys were invariably homely and mean looking...a lot of evil eyes and bad teeth.)

The Reckoning is a detailed picture of “the raw, lawless, unforgiving place and time that yielded only stubbornly to Order and to it’s handmaiden, the Rule of Law”. It’s a good read.... actually much better than the Saturday afternoon films and drive-in movies of my youth.

For a look at the good guys and gals of our region of Texas, the likes of which also appeared in the “westerns” of my childhood, consider reading the book Homestead...Pioneers of Texas’ Frontier. Kimble County native, multiple journalism awardwinner and former reporter for The Junction Eagle, Jerry Lackey, compiled a collection of his popular “Homestead” columns, originally published in the San Angelo Standard Times. These

stories provide readers with insight into a different segment of the early residents of our area. Homestead acknowledges the lives of a tough-as-nails, hard-working, proud, unbelievably rugged people....the ones whose families “loaded up the wagon and came to Texas”. Homestead includes stories about their descendants, who continued working the pioneer ranches and farms, and passed the love of and reverence for their lands down to their progeny.

Another local man, now author, with many generationsdeep roots in Kimble County, published his first book, Apache Rain. Although Tim Graham calls his effort a work of fiction, “an historical western novel”, it is factual, loosely based on the stories he gathered about his own great grandfather, James Joseph Callan.

Jim Callan’s adventures begin when his love-interest marries his best friend, breaking his heart. After that, there is much shooting and fighting as the story line weaves through his soldiering in several wars, espionage, Indian fighting as a Texas Ranger and searching for children stolen by Indians. In the process of trying to get himself killed on the Texas frontier and various battlefields in order to relieve the pain of his crushed heart, he meets a half Apache woman named Rain.

I saw lots of western movies about those strong, determined settlers, untamable cowboys, vicious Indians, daring and deadly Texas Rangers and strong frontier women....and fervently wished I had lived in “the olden days” so that I could outrun the Indians, riding my horse full out, my long skirt, petticoats and hair billowing behind me......back when attending school regularly wasn’t such a big deal!

Criminal Trespass

As part of the navigation right, one may use the bed and, to a limited degree, the banks of a navigable stream. However, the use of the private property adjacent to a stream can be a criminal trespass.

Under Texas Penal Code § 30.05 (see below), the definition of criminal trespass is more complex than the simple notion of being on someone else’s land. One way to commit the offense is to enter upon another’s property even though one has notice that the entry is forbidden. Another way is to remain on another’s property, refusing to leave after receiving notice to depart.

Notice can be given in any one of five forms. First, it can be an oral or written communication by the owner or someone acting for the owner. Second, it can be a fence or other enclosure obviously designed to exclude intruders or to contain livestock. Third, notice can be in the form of sign(s) posted on the property or at the entrance to the building, reasonably likely to be noticed, indicating that entry is forbidden. Fourth, notice can be in the form of readily visible purple paint marks of proper size and placement on trees or posts spaced no more than 100 feet apart on forest land or 1,000 feet apart on non-forest land. Fifth, notice can be the visible presence on the property of a crop grown for human consumption that is under cultivation, in the process of being harvested, or marketable if harvested at the time of entry.

Criminal trespass is normally a Class B misdemeanor with a fine up to $2,000 and a jail term up to 180 days. If the trespass is on agricultural land, and the trespasser is apprehended within 100 feet of the boundary of the land, the offense is a Class C misdemeanor with a fine up to $500. Agricultural land is broadly defined and includes land suitable for growing plants (for food, feed, fiber, seed, etc.) or trees or for keeping farm or ranch animals. However, under certain conditions including if one has a deadly weapon on or about one’s person the offense is a Class A misdemeanor with a fine up to $4,000 and a jail term up to one year.

State Law

Penal Code § 30.05. Criminal Trespass.

(a) A person commits an offense if he enters or remains on or in property, including an aircraft or other vehicle, of another without effective consent or he enters or remains in a building of another without effective consent and he:

(1) had notice that the entry was forbidden; or

(2) received notice to depart but failed to do so.

(b) For purposes of this section:

(1) “Entry” means the intrusion of the entire body.

(2) “Notice” means:

(A) oral or written communication by the owner or someone with apparent authority to act for the owner;

(B) fencing or other enclosure obviously designed to exclude intruders or to contain livestock;

(C) a sign or signs posted on the property or at the entrance to the building, reasonably likely to come to the attention of intruders, indicating that entry is forbidden;

(D) the placement of identifying purple paint marks on trees or posts on the property, provided that the marks are:

(i) vertical lines of not less than eight inches in length and not less than one inch in width;

(ii) placed so that the bottom of the mark is not less than three feet from the ground or more than five feet from the ground; and

(iii) placed at locations that are readily visible to any person approaching the property and no more than:

(a) 100 feet apart on forest land; or

(b) 1,000 feet apart on land other than forest land; or

(E) the visible presence on the property of a crop grown for human consumption that is under cultivation, in the process of being harvested, or marketable if harvested at the time of entry.

(3) “Shelter center” has the meaning assigned by Section 51.002(1), Human Resources Code.

(4) “Forest land” means land on which the trees are potentially valuable for timber products.

(5) “Agricultural land” has the meaning assigned by Section 75.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code.

(6) “Superfund site” means a facility that:

(A) is on the National Priorities List established under Section 105 of the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. Section 9605); or

(B) is listed on the state registry established under Section 361.181, Health and Safety Code.

(c) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that the actor at the time of the offense was a fire fighter or emergency medical services personnel, as that term is defined by Section 773.003, Health and Safety Code, acting in the lawful discharge of an official duty under exigent circumstances.

(d) An offense under Subsection (e) is a Class C misdemeanor unless it is committed in a habitation or unless the actor carries a deadly weapon on or about the actor’s person during the commission of the offense, in which event it is a Class A misdemeanor. An offense under Subsection (a) is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is a Class A misdemeanor if:

(1) the offense is committed:

(A) in a habitation or a shelter center; or

(B) on a Superfund site; or

(2) the actor carries a deadly weapon on or about his person during the commission of the offense.

(e) A person commits an offense if without express consent or if without authorization provided by any law, whether in writing or other form, the person:

(1) enters or remains on agricultural land of another;

(2) is on the agricultural land and within 100 feet of the boundary of the land when apprehended; and

(3) had notice that the entry was forbidden or received notice to depart but failed to do so.

(f) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that:

(1) the basis on which entry on the property or land or in the building was forbidden is that entry with a handgun was forbidden; and

(2) the person was carrying a concealed handgun and a license issued under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, to carry a concealed handgun of the same category the person was carrying.

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY CENTER AT JUNCTION

Robert Stubblefield, Director, Texas Tech University Center at Junction

Texas Tech University Center at Junction provides academic, research and engagement programs to expand education, economic, workforce, and cultural opportunities throughout the Western Hill Country region. The TTU Center at Junction manages facilities for college-level students and faculty; K-12 students, teachers, and parents; and state, regional and community organizations in a unique learning environment related to the South Llano River ecosystem.

The TTU Center at Junction is home to the Llano River Field Station (LRFS) whose mission is to encourage, conduct, and disseminate information from applied research projects associated with watersheds and hydrology, fisheries science, range management, wildlife biology, habitat management and vegetative restoration, exotic and invasive species, epizootics, and outdoor/ STEM education in the Texas Hill Country. The largest (over 400 acres) inland field station in Texas, is bisected by the South Llano River and dedicates primary emphasis on critical research, education, engagement on natural resources, water/watershed, and biological diversity of the Central Texas Hill Country. The LRFS provides Texas Tech a gateway to Central Texas and is a nationally recognized center for excellence, with multipurpose, multidisciplinary research, education and engagement programs focusing on identification of issues associated with natural resources management and policy. The research conducted at the LRFS addresses the understanding and potential solutions to natural resource education, management, and policy needs for the region and state, with national and international implications.

The TTU Center at Junction will continue to expand its role as a leader in science education through its Outdoor

Learning Center by continuing educational excursions for over 1,500 students and teachers per year; and creating a unique high school Outdoor Academy, a residential immersion experience focused on the development of students’ skills in STEM fields to create a college-bound culture.

Although LRFS is relatively new in its mission as a field station, it has made progress in addressing National Science Foundation core strategies (Expand Knowledge and Advance the Capability of the Nation) in a vast area of the Texas Hill Country that lacks a significant academic presence. Expansion of the LRFS facilities and services are planned to create a more comprehensive center for integrating research, K-20+ education, and outreach.

The Texas state legislature has earmarked $8M in Texas Revenue Bonds to be used for added infrastructure to enhance the educational and research opportunities offered in Junction. Engagement with local and statewide stakeholders and other partnerships will be expanded. Meeting this goal is critical for workforce and professional development training for state and federal agencies, specifically in sustainable and natural resource management and research. Several important scientific conferences are scheduled at the TTU Center at Junction and will have a major impact on local economic development.

TTU TTU

SUMMER CLASSIC RODEO RODEO WEEKEND AUGUST 9 & 10, 2024

Friday & Saturday Evening

Each year, the Hill Country Fair Association sponsors a twoday rodeo and dances in Junction. On the weekend of August 9 and 10, there will be lots of fun activities: class reunions, family reunions, a parade and a car show all throughout the day. The Summer Classic Rodeo gates open at 6:30 p.m., and the rodeo events start at 7:30 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday.

Following the rodeo each evening, there will be a concert and dance at the Rodeo Pavilion just above the arena. Follow the Hill Country Fair Association Facebook page for rodeo concert performers. facebook.com/hcfajunctiontx

SUMMER CLASSIC RODEO PARADE

Saturday • 10 a.m.

The Summer Classic Rodeo Parade takes place on Saturday, August 10, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Traveling the length of Main Street and back, it will feature creative homespun floats, including class reunion floats. After the parade, be sure to check out the cars at the Martin Memorial Car Show at the Kimble County Courthouse.

Wyatt Burton

Laura Skinner

MONDAY-SATURDAY

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Hunting license, gasoline, soft drinks, wine, all your grocery needs, and clean restrooms.

CAFE

W-Th 7 AM - 8 PM

F-S 7 AM - 9 PM

Daily and weekly specials! Draft Beer!

LYSSY & ECKEL FEEDS

Corn, deer pellets, deer block, bulk feed, milo, batteries and feeders, timers for deer feeders, and blinds.

Monday-Saturday 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM MAIN

325-446-2604

LEFEEDS.COM

KOW KICK

FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL & BBQ COOKOFF

The Saturday before Labor Day, the Kimble County Chamber of Commerce hosts the Annual Kimble County Kow Kick, an arts and crafts fair, in the Junction City Park located along the banks of the Llano River. Vendors selling arts, crafts, and food items are scattered around the park, which is covered by shade from the large pecan trees. Live music is provided throughout the day and there are a number of fun, recreational activities for the whole family.

Also featured during the event is the Annual BBQ Cook-Off. The event is a Sanctioned State Championship. Contestants will face-off to prove who has the best brisket, pork spareribs, chicken, and beans. There is a kids cook-off as well.

There are awards presented for

August 31, 2024

the youngest and oldest persons attending, the longest-married couple and the person who traveled the longest distance to attend. The Little Mr. and Miss Kimble County Pageant also takes place that morning.

There is no admission charge, so come join the fun!

HUNTING

SET YOUR SIGHTS O N KIMBLE COUNTY

Hunters love coming to Kimble County. Among the rolling green hills, lush valleys, abundant streams and broad vistas typical of the western edge of the Texas Hill Country, wildlife is plentiful, as is local hospitality. Folks here welcome hunters each fall and throughout the year. Businesses and merchants make special efforts to accommodate these part-time residents.

Each year, the fall season is kicked off with a party on “hunting season eve” hosted by West Bear Creek General Store. Everyone is invited, so out-of-towners and locals have an opportunity to meet and greet. Along with excellent food, beverages and prizes, there’s an excitement in the air. Expectations are always high for hunting success. This year, the gathering will start at 11 a.m. on November 1.

The next morning, all are invited to downtown London to enjoy a traditional hunter’s breakfast at 9:30, at the community center, sponsored by the London

Community Association. A bake sale usually takes place that morning as well. Directions aren’t necessary. When you get to London, just follow your nose!

After breakfast...head on over to the little community of Roosevelt for a hunter’s lunch at Lyssy and Eckel Feeds and Simon Brothers Mercantile. Roosevelt is located 18 miles west of Junction off I-10. Plan to participate in the many door prizes and raffles offered while meeting hunters from all over. Lunch is served from 11:30 until the food runs out!

On November 30, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, there will be more great, exotic food and chances to win prizes. The Chamber of Commerce and Junction Volunteer Fire Department host the annual Wild Game Dinner at the Stevenson Center, starting at 6:30 p.m. There are raffled prizes galore and lots of guns. All you need is an appetite and a winning ticket or ten!

By now, stories abound of monster bucks, majestic axis, elusive turkeys, wild hogs

and of the one that got away, so there’s no shortage of conversation. Tall tales??

Remember Kimble County when you plan your hunting experience. Know that you’ll have fun, be welcomed, appreciated..........and well fed!

JUNCTION HUNTERS’ GATHERINGS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1

West Bear Creeks Hunters Lunch 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2

London Community Hunters Breakfast

9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2

Simon Brothers Hunters Lunch in Roosevelt

11:30 a.m. - until food runs out!

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30

Kimble County Wild Game Dinner

6:30 p.m. at the Stevenson Center

Jordan Keeton

Located just 18 miles west of Junction off I-10, the all-but-forgotten community gained momentum again in 1996 when the Simon family purchased an old building, which was once owned by a Simon ancestor and was named Simon Brothers Mercantile. In 2018, the mercantile and Backdoor Cafe were purchased by Lyssy and Eckel Feeds. Though under new ownership, the Simon family is still greatly involved.

The mercantile, a something-for-everyone general store, containing a post office, antiques, gasoline, feed, supplies and an abundance of personality, is the de facto community center.

Though the actual population of Roosevelt

is less than 20, it provides the nexus for all socializing for the area. The unofficial “city council” roundtable meets daily for coffee, to solve problems, both local and worldwide, and to dispense advice. There are afternoon domino games and old-fashioned cheeseburgers, fries and more excellent cuisine in the aptly-named Simon Brothers Cafe.

Simon Bros. Mercantile and Lyssy and Eckel Feeds and friends host a lunch for hunters on opening day of deer season, the KC Chapter Mule Deer Foundation Banquet, a parade on Christmas Eve, a New Year’s dance with a fireworks show and whatever else might serve as an opportunity to have some fun!

The Kimble County town of London has survived fires and other calamities to become a community that is proud of its heritage and its part of the history of the area.

The town was established by Len L. Lewis, a horse trader and former Union Army officer from Illinois.

The Western cattle trail went through London, and residents witnessed thousands of head of cattle being driven through their town. (In more recent years, a private airplane made an emergency landing and taxied right down Main Street in London.) Lewis was the first postmaster. Mail was delivered to his home where locals were re-

quired to pick out their own mail. He also operated a hotel, wagon yard and served as justice of the peace.

Israel Pettigrew opened a blacksmith shop, and a drug store was built by Dr. J. M. Burt, a pharmacist and “traveling” dentist. There was also a cotton gin, and optimistic residents built a school and three churches.

The London Dance Hall, a cultural icon, has been open over 100 years and features live music most weekends!

Drop by on November 2, the morning of open hunting season, for a free Hunter’s Breakfast at 9:30 a.m. at the London Community Center.

November

When driving through Kimble County at night in the winter on IH-10, one may notice the bright glow of Christmas lights from the interstate. Exiting off 457 and taking the Martinez Street Bridge and loop 2169 over the South Llano River Bridge will take you to the beautiful display of illuminated

pecan trees in Schreiner Park (City Park). A total of sixty trees in the park and several in town have been decorated with brightly colored Christmas lights. The lighting of the Schreiner Park trees is the result of a collaboration of the City of Junction, Junction Tourism Board, Junction Texas

Economic Development Board, Junction Lions Club and the many businesses and individuals who have sponsored the lighted trees. This year, the lights will be turned on Friday, November 1. The lighted trees make for a great Christmas Wonderland photo opportunity.

PARADE OF LIGHTS & PICTURES WITH SANTA

Annually in December

Annually the first weekend in December at dark thirty, businesses, organizations and individuals in Junction decorate their vehicles and floats in Christmas theme and travel down Main Street in Christmas Spirit. Candy and goodies are thrown to parade goers. The best place to view this small town parade is from the sidewalk in front of Kimble County Courthouse.

After the parade, head down to the Schreiner Park to have your child’s picture taken under the lighted trees, where Christmas wishes will be heard by Santa during the Lions Club Pictures with Santa event. There are usually other children’s activities taking place during the event as well as free hot cocoa and treats given away.

CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH

First Saturday in December

Celebrate the Christmas Holiday at the South Llano River State Park on the first Saturday in December from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Gather around the front porch of Walter Buck’s historic ranch home and decorate trees, take pictures with Santa, enjoy some Christmas tunes on the front porch, sip hot chocolate, and more! Come dressed in your ugliest Christmas sweater for the ugly Christmas sweater contest.

Meetings are held monthly at Lum’s BBQ.

The Junction Eagle Athletic Booster Club is the fundraising arm of the Athletic Department. It is our goal to work with the athletic director and coaches to support and promote the Junction ISD Athletic Program and our student athletes.

For Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities call (325) 446-6169 or email EagleBoosters@junctionisd.net.

#EaglePride

Facebook is our primary means of promoting events, be sure to like our page. Search Junction Eagle Booster Club.

view junction from

LOVERS LEAP

Passing through? Staying a while? Either way, Lovers Leap is a must see! Just less than a mile from the courthouse, this Kimble County geographical landmark towers 1,916 feet over the South Llano River valley.

To get the best view of the huge limestone bluff, take FM 2169 West past the Junction Golf Course and the Hill Country Fair Grounds. It will take you past the bottom of the magnificent bluff. At the base is a hiking trail. Take a right at Loop 481 and just a quarter mile up, see the entrance for the Frank L. Wilson Park Scenic Overlook on the southeast side of the mountain. The park is open to the public.

From Lovers Leap, the Junction Golf Course, Disc Golf Course, Hill Country Fair Grounds, South Llano River, and South Llano River Bridge can all be seen.

Sunrise, sunset and starlit nights are especially breathtaking when viewed from the top of Lovers Leap. You will not want to miss this panoramic view of Junction’s beautiful scenic valley.

Ashley Putnam

Wyatt Burton

Wyatt Burton

Wyatt Burton

Ashley Putnam

Ashley Putnam

Saydee Meadow

Kathy Palladini

9:45

10:55

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Kris

9:45

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Worship With Us

MEN’S BIBLE CLASS

8:50 a.m. Sunday Morning

Broadcast live at 9 a.m.

SAVED BY GRACE

TABERNACLE OF JUNCTION

602 S. Llano St.

Saturday: 10 a.m. & 7 p.m.Thursday - 7 p.m.

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7 p.m. Wednesday Worship

Rev. Donna Carroll

HILL COUNTRY BAPTIST CHURCH

322 South 11th Street

10 a.m. - Sunday School

11 a.m. - Morning Worship

3 p.m.- Evening Message

Wednesday

6:30 p.m. - Evening Service

7:30 p.m. - Prayer

1 FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH

3759 S US HWY 377 (4 miles south of Junction)

10:30 a.m. - Sunday Fellowship

11 a.m. - Sunday Service

6:30 p.m. - Wednesday Youth Fellowship

7 p.m. - Wednesday Youth Service

Daniel Henderson, Pastor

JUNCTION CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

1209 College Street

9:30 a.m. - Sunday School

10:30 a.m. - Morning Worship

TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH

1119 Main Street

Sunday Holy Communion

11 a.m. - year round

Bible Study - Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.

Rev. Samuel A. Hunnicutt

Rena B. Sue, Pastor

GOODWILL

BAPTIST CHURCH

1201 North Llano

Bilingual Services

10 a.m. - Sunday School

11 a.m. - Morning Worship

5 p.m. - Evening Worship

Interim Pastor

THE RIVER

APOSTOLIC CHURCH

143 East Pine Street

2 p.m. - Sunday

Rev. & Mrs. Shad McIntosh

CASA DE ORACION/ HOUSE OF PRAYER

1519 Main Street

Pastors James and Irma Williamson

Sunday services11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday service - 7:00 p.m.

LONDON

BAPTIST CHURCH

U.S. Hwy. 377

10 a.m. - Sunday School

11 a.m. - Morning Worship

Bill Ragsdale, Pastor

www.londonbaptistchurchtx.com

IVY CHAPEL

TBA

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