Welcome To Fayette County Spring/Summer 2020 Visitors Guide

2020 SPRING/SUMMER

WELCOME TO

FAYETTE COUNTY JUNK GYPSIES

WANDER INN SISTERS AMIE AND JOLIE SIKES PUT DOWN ROOTS IN ROUND TOP COVER PHOTO BY RUSTIC WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE TEXAS INDEPENDENCE

Wine Trail

FAYETTE COUNTY’S

Concert Scene A GUIDE TO LOCAL

Church Picnics

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

ROUND TOP • SCHULENBURG • FLATONIA • LA GRANGE • FAYETTEVILLE • CARMINE

Arts for Rural Texas provides children in rural communities with Art After School programs, including hands-on experiences in painting, sculpting, music, theatre, the culinary arts, and more. Our programs coincide with the school year and include both public and private schools, as well as several community locations throughout Fayette County.

Join us at ARTS this summer for Summer Art Camp.

For more information, or to get your child enrolled in one of these amazing programs, call us direct or visit us online.

Bringing the Arts to Rural South Central Texas 979-378-2113 • www.artsforruraltexas.org

Featured Poster Poster Artist Artist Featured Shannon Mucha Mucha Shannon

MAY

F A Y E T T E V I L L E

T E X A S

ArtWalk is a juried art show open to the public in Fayetteville, Texas. Enjoy the beauty of a Texas spring as you stroll from booth to booth on the historic Fayetteville Square. Festivities include live music, wine tasting, Texas BBQ, tasty crepes, face-painting, children’s crafts, bouncy house adventures, shaved ice, and much more.

For more information about ArtWalk, contact ARTS by phone or online.

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

VISIT FAYETTE COUNTY

Fayette County at a Glance..............................................6 Letter From Judge Weber..................................................7 Texas Independence Wine Trail.......................................8 Fayette County’s Concert Scene.................................12 A Guide to Local Church Picnics...................................14 Advertiser Index.................................................................80

ROUND TOP

Welcome to Round Top...................................................18 Letter From Mayor Barry Bone.......................................19 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play.............................20 Dusting off the Magic at Wander Inn........................22 Festival Hill Turns 50 this Year........................................28 Round Top’s Talented Two..............................................30

SCHULENBURG

Welcome to Schulenburg................................................34 Letter From Mayor Elaine Kocian.................................35 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play.............................36 Schulenburg’s Painted Churches................................38 It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, No It’s Stanzel Museum........42

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Round Top

Schulenburg

Flatonia

FLATONIA

Welcome to Flatonia.........................................................44 Letter From Mayor Bryan Milson...................................45 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play.............................46 Flatonia’s Czhilispiel.........................................................48

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La Grange

LA GRANGE

Welcome to La Grange.....................................................50 Letter From Mayor Janet Moerbe................................51 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play.............................52 Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center.....................56 La Grange Area Fun Family Outings............................58 Fayette County Community Theatre...........................60

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Fayetteville

FAYETTEVILLE

Welcome to Fayetteville..................................................64 Letter From Mayor Carl Marino.....................................65 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play.............................66 The Community of Ellinger.............................................68 ARTS Growing A Community..........................................70

CARMINE

Welcome to Carmine........................................................72 Letter From Mayor Wade Eilers.....................................73 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play.............................74 A Truly Unique Antique Town........................................76 American Guinea Hogs...................................................78

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Carmine

On the Cover

Junk Gypsy sisters Amie and Jolie Sikes Photo by Rustic White Photography

WELCOME TO

FAYETTE COUNTY JUNK GYPSIES

WANDER INN SISTERS AMIE AND JOLIE PUT DOWN SIKES ROOTS IN ROUN D TOP

COVER PHOTO

BY RUSTIC

WHITE PHOTOGR

APHY

THE TEX INDEPENDENAS CE

Wine Trail

FAYETTE COUN TY’S

A GUIDE TO LOCAL

Concert Scene

Church Picnics ROUND TOP • SCHULENBUR G • FLATO NIA

OFFICIAL PUBLICAT ION

OF

• LA GRANG E • FAYETTEVILL

E • CARMI NE

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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VISIT FAYETTE COUNTY Visit Fayette is published twice a year by the Fayette County Record in La Grange, Texas.

The purpose of the publication is to provide useful information for visitors considering Fayette County as their destination for leisure travel. It is used by the Fayette County Record staff as a tool for all trade shows and sales efforts, handed out at events and distributed at all TxDOT Travel Centers.

DATA FROM 2018-19 TEXAS ALMANAC Population 25,349 Area (sq.mi.) 959.8 Altitude (ft.) 200–590 Rainfall (in.) 40.46 Jan. avg. min. 39.2 July avg. max. 95.5 Civilian labor 12,294 Unemployed 2.5% Per Capita Income $53,564 Property Value $6,910,143,625 Retail Sales $470,514,199

Staff & Contributors PUBLISHER Regina B. Keilers

EDITOR Jeff Wick

DIGITAL EDITOR Andy Behlen

STAFF WRITER/ OFFICE H.H. Howze LouAnn Adcox Kara Koether

ADVERTISING Becky Weise Jackie Daniels Jessica Montez

ACCOUNTING Theresia Karstedt Nonnie Barton

PRODUCTION John Castaneda Newspaper Lindsey Fojtik - Special Sections

CIRCULATION JoAnn Mueller George Kana Bobby Bedient Jesse Montez Lisa Karstedt Leigh Ann Bedient Debbie Matula Nicol Krenek

Physical Features: South central county bisected by Colorado River; Fayette County Reservoir; rolling to level; sandy loam, black waxy soils.

Economy: Agribusiness, production of electricity, mineral production, government/ services, small manufacturing, tourism.

History: Lipan Apaches and Tonkawas. Austin’s colonists arrived in 1822. Germans and Czechs began arriving in 1840s. County created from Bastrop, Colorado counties in 1837; organized in 1838; named for hero of American Revolution, Marquis de Lafayette.

Recreation: Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Sites, Faison Home Museum, other historic sites including “Painted Churches”; hunting, fishing, lake; German and Czech ethnic foods; Prazska Pout in August, Octoberfests.

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127 S. Washington St. | P.O. Box 400 La Grange, Texas 78945 Ph: 979.969.3155 | Fx: 979.968.6767 Email: editor@fayettecountyrecord.com www.FayetteCountyRecord.com

Recreation: Golf courses (2), State Parks (1), City Parks (13), Museums (18), Art

The Fayette County Record is published every Tuesday and Friday, except the publication immediately following Christmas by Fayette County Record, Inc. serving Fayette County since 1922. The Fayette County Record is locally owned and operated by the Barton family since 1976.

(USPS 188-440)

manufacturing, tourism; Schulenburg (2,945) manufacturing, food processing; festival in August; Round Top (92) music center, tourism; antiques shows; Winedale (67), historic restorations; Carmine (258); Ellinger (386), Fayetteville (262) tourism, antiques, Lickskillet festival in October; Flatonia (1,401) food production, cattle ranching; rail history museum, Czhilispiel in October; Ledbetter (83); Muldoon (95); Plum (145); Warda (121); Warrenton (186); West Point (213), and Winchester (232).

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

galleries (12).

Airport: Fayette Regional Air Center; 850 Airport Road, La Grange; 979-242-4056; Ma jor Cities: LA GRANGE (4,749) County seat; electric-power generation, varied

TO FAYETTE COUNTY

County Judge

WELCOME

On behalf of the great residents of Fayette County, I want to welcome all of you to what we refer to as the “ Crown Jewel” of the State of Texas. Our county is rich in history, tradition and culture and inhabited by a diverse group of hardworking people committed to the highest of standards and values. Quality of life is important to all our residents and we welcome all of you to share in the many sights, events and amenities our county has to offer. While here, I encourage all of you to visit our quaint shops, taste our great food and visit the many historic sites, which remain the foundation of our county’s uniqueness and greatness. And if you are thinking about relocating to our county to live and prosper, whether it’s a new homestead or developing a thriving business, you have found the right place. We are all here to assist you in any way possible during your visit and hope you find your experience worthwhile.

Sincerely, Joe Weber, Fayette County Judge

Fayette County country scene.

Fayette County Judge Joe Weber on a tractor during the Round Top 4th of July Parade.

Czech Center amphitheater.

“While here, I encourage all of you to visit our quaint shops, taste our great food and visit the many historic sites, which remain the foundation of our county’s uniqueness and greatness.” - Judge Joe Weber 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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Who’s on the Trail?

BLISSFUL FOLLY FARM BLUE MULE WINES BUSTED OAK CELLARS CAST IRON WINERY MAJEK WINEYARD & WINERY PIPERS CREEK VINEYARD ROSEMARY’S VINEYARD SAN DUCERRO WINERY

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

WINE TRAIL FAYETTE COUNTY’S WINE TRAIL GUIDE

VISIT FAYETTE COUNTY

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE

WRITTEN BY KARA KOETHER

What exactly is a wine trail, and how long have they been around? Well, a wine trail is essentially a group of wineries that have formed an association of sorts, and work together to bring visitors and customers to both their wineries and local regions.

Initially, wine trails began forming in the northeastern United States before spreading to the Midwest and across the Atlantic to Europe. The wineries that make up a single wine trail continue to compete with one another, while also coming together to form an entirely new “brand.” For wine and mead enthusiasts in Fayette County and the surrounding area, the “brand” is the Texas Independence Wine Trail.

What makes this wine trail unique is that all of the wineries involved are smaller wineries, sometimes called “boutique wineries.” This implies that when guests visit the winery, the owner and winemakers are typically there, which makes for a much more personal experience. It also enables guests to learn more about the wine they’re tasting.

The Texas Independence Wine Trail is made up of nine wineries and meaderies: Blue Mule Wines in Fayetteville, Blissful Folly Farm (also known as Rohan Meadery) in La Grange, Rosemary’s Vineyard in La Grange, Pipers Creek Vineyard in Columbus, Cast Iron Winery in Sealy, Whistling Duck Winery in Weimar, Majek Vineyard & Winery in Schulenburg, San Ducerro Vineyard in Yoakum, and Busted Oak Cellars in Carmine.

Additionally, each winery has its own events held throughout the year, including live music, grape stomps, yarn festivals, and more. However, there are also certain seasonal events which are held throughout the year that all of the nine wineries participate in. Coming up, the Texas Independence Wine Trail is hosting ‘Charm Bracelets and Wine.’ At the first stop, guests will get a bracelet. At each next visit, they’ll receive two tastings and

The Texas Independence Wine Trail is a self-guided tour that guests can traverse any time of the year. There’s no particular order necessary, which is nice for guests as it allows them to take their time and enjoy each experience at their own convenience.

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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Busted Oak Cellars

Rohan Meadery

979.249.5652 blissfulfollyfarm.com

6002 FM 2981·La Grange, TX 78945

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Rosemary’s Vineyard

©2020 The Fayette County Record

J us 1 mil t e Hwy off 237!

Hours: Thursday - Sunday noon to 6pm 8127 N FM 1291 • Fayetteville, TX 78940 •

713-226-9344

A wine best served with

The Texas Independence Wine Trail is made up of 9 unique wineries, offers award-winning wines, charming Tasting Rooms in relaxed country settings, and beautiful vineyards and grounds, starting only a short 45 minutes from Houston, and 90 minutes from Austin and San Antonio.

Blue Mule Wines • Blissful Folly Farm • Busted Oak Cellars Cast Iron Winery • Majek Vineyard & Winery • Pipers Creek Vineyard Rosemary’s Vineyard • San Ducerro Vineyard • Whistling Duck Winery

For Event Tickets and More Info visit texasindependencewinetrail.com

©2020 The Fayette County Record

©2020 The Fayette County Record

The newest member of the Texas Independence Wine Trail (and the newest vineyard in the area) is Busted Oak Cellars in Carmine, which was opened on February 14 by Patrick and Sherrie Cooke. They planted their vineyard in 2013, and decided to make wine this year. They have 13 wines available, in addition to a small menu of meat and cheese boards, fruit platters, and meatball platters. Patrick and Sherrie’s children are all involved in some capacity, and everyone has had a great time learning the business. “We’re excited about our new tasting room,” Sherrie said, “but it’s most exciting to be a part of something where you can share successes.” They have lots of fun events planned for 2020.

www.bluemulewines.com

VISIT FAYETTE COUNTY

a charm from each winery. There will also be a similar event involving herb gardens, in which guests will receive a planter on their first stop and two tastes, herbs to plant, and even recipes to use the herbs. This summer, there will be a Summer Passport event, where guests have the entire summer to visit all nine wineries to get discounted full tastings and a souvenir from every third stop (the third souvenir will be the same for all guests, no matter the location of their last visit.) Finally, this September, all nine wineries will be together at Pipers Creek for the Texas Independence Wine Festival. And for the guests who’d like to keep track of where they’ve been, a brochure is in development which will have places for a stamp at each winery.

“I loved everything about my experience at Busted Oak. The wines are unique and the employees are very knowledgeable...”

- Nancy G.

Hours of Operation: Mon. 1:00-4:00pm Thurs. 4:00-8:00pm Fri. 12:00-9:00pm Sat. 12:00-9:00pm Sun. 1:00-6:00pm

For more information call 281.795.2588

6195 Round Top Rd • Carmine, Texas

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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FAYETTE COUNTY’S

Concert Scene And Why You Should See A Few WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARA KOETHER

The Fayette County Fair is a great opportunity to meet up with friends and family members to enjoy an exciting, and entertaining show.

One of the few things that people around the world and across time have in common is a love for music. The energy it creates, the emotions it elicits, and the relativity of well-written lyrics are what always have and will continue to bring people together from all backgrounds and experiences. And for me, one of the best places to experience music is live and in person at a concert.

Whether at the main stage at the Fayette County Fair in the summer heat, in a local pub, or at the Festival Hill campus in a beautiful concert hall, I’ve always loved it all.

Last summer, I was lucky enough to attend several musical events through my job at The Fayette County Record. I heard a folksy duo at The Bugle Boy, watched Diamond Rio and

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

interviewed Randall King at the Schulenburg Festival, and photographed Casey Donahew and Josh Turner at the Fair. I even was able to talk to some classical musicians from all over the world who were studying at Festival Hill. Experiencing music has always been one of my strongest passions, and I’ve been very lucky to be able to attend many concerts throughout my life. But somehow, these concerts that I’ve attended in Fayette County have always held a special place in my heart.

When I found out that Diamond Rio was one of the acts that would be playing at the Schulenburg Festival, the first thing I did was tell my dad. We’ve been singing along in the truck to Marty Roe’s crooning for as long as I can remember. And when I

The Schulenburg Festival’s slightly smaller stage and ered pavilion (w covith massive fans to keep cool!) is pe to a fun summer rfect gathering with gr eat food and even better music.

Afterward, I had the opportunity to photograph Randall King’s headlining show. His music is considered to be “neo-traditional country” by many, reminding listeners of the music that King grew up on: George Strait, Alan Jackson, and Keith Whitley. I was also able to talk to him about his experiences playing smalltown shows, like the Schulenburg Festival and the Lee County Fair (where I saw him play last May). “At the bigger shows, the crowds are bigger, so the energy can be bigger, and most of the time, that’s the case. But, man, almost every time we’ve ever played a smaller venue, it just takes you back to the feeling of, ‘Yeah, this is a honkytonk,’” King said. “There’s more people packed into a smaller area, so the physics of that creates a lot more energy, and it’s a different kind of vibe. It feels more loud, more live, and sometimes, I feel like I have more fun playing the smaller hometown venues.” Playing small-town shows also allows King to take it back to his roots, and pay tribute to rural areas like Hereford, Texas, where he grew up. And that shows in his live shows.

I even reached out to Aaron Watson, a more widely-known Texas Country artist who released his first album in 1999 and has been working hard to release 14 more over the past two decades, to see how he felt about playing small-town shows. He said, “I love Texas and I love small town Texas. It’s like the town where I live and where we started: in the dancehalls and community centers that are the center of these towns. I love that these kinds of venues are important parts of the community, that generations and families come out to listen, sing along, dance, and create great memories. It’s where new music by new generations is discovered. Even though we play far and wide across the U.S. and the world now, and a lot of bigger venues, these are still some of my favorites when we have the opportunity to get back to our roots and play them.”

And those are exactly the experiences that make small town shows so unique and special: the chances of running into friends you haven’t seen in a while under the main stage at the Fair, meeting someone you might not normally cross paths with in a concert hall at Festival Hill, finding a common interest with a visitor from out of town at The Bugle Boy, and even bumping into a family member at the Schulenburg Festival who you didn’t know would be there. If you get the chance, I highly recommend taking some time to have some good old-fashioned fun listening to good music with good people.

VISIT FAYETTE COUNTY

found out that Randall King, the new artist I’d first seen live last February and immediately loved, I knew that we had to go.

Diamond Rio played first, and the crowd in attendance was basically myself and my dad multiplied: it seemed like the audience was made up of parents and their children. And everyone was having a blast, seemingly reliving years past. It was endearing to watch and heartwarming to be a part of. Being able to spend some quality time with family and loved ones is one of the best parts of attending a concert.

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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A GUIDE TO LOCAL

Church Picnics WRITTEN BY ANDY BEHLEN

Dubina Church Picnic

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

St. John Church Picnic

VISIT FAYETTE COUNTY

There is no better way to experience the culture of Fayette County than to visit one of the annual picnics put on by the Catholic churches scattered throughout the countryside.

The Czech and German settlers who came here in the mid- to late1800s were predominantly Lutheran or Catholic. As soon as they got their fields plowed and their cabins built, they joined together to build churches. Every year during the summer, usually around the time of the feast day of the church’s patron saint, parishioners would gather together for a big feast.

The tradition lives on in the small Catholic communities of High Hill, Praha, Ammannsville, St. John, Dubina, Cistern, Holman, Plum, Ellinger, Fayetteville, and Hostyn.

The practice came over from the Czech and German lands. In the old days, each family would bring a chicken from their coop, or a pot of potatoes or green beans picked from their garden, a jar of peaches or pickles, and maybe a loaf of bread. When the entire parish got together for the feast, there was enough food for everyone. And the meal was often free.

If you come to one of the picnics for nothing else, come for the meal. The recipes often date back to the late 1800s when Czech and German settlers founded the churches.

Traditional fare invariably consists of fried chicken, german potatoes, sauerkraut, green beans and pickles. The meal also includes either beef stew or sausage, depending on parish tradition. While the meals are no longer free like they were in the old days, they are still a deal – usually $9 to $10 a plate.

Each community puts their own spin on the meal. In Ammannsville, the cooks use cracker crumb breading for the fried chicken. The ladies of St. Wenceslaus Church in Holman save a few of the boiled potatoes and mash them up with the potato water to create the allimportant mashka, which they add to the sauerkraut. The men of Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Plum grind, stuff and smoke homemade sausage before the picnic and serve it at the meal. Those who eat inside the hall at St. John get treated to sliced tomatoes picked fresh from local gardens, but only if it rained enough that year.

The bands that perform at these picnics play both kinds of music – polkas and waltzes. The summertime picnics form a sort of concert circuit for bands like the Shiner Hobo Band, Mark Halata and Texavia, the Red Ravens, and that young group from another part of Texas where some Czechs settled, the Ennis Czech Boys.

But other tunes were inspired locally, sometimes by the picnics themselves, as in the case of the great Dujka Brothers number “Grandpa Drank Too Much at the St. John Picnic.”

The picnics are regular stops for the red- and white-festooned dancers of the Polka Lover’s Club of America. If you don’t know how to dance the polka or waltz, just ask one and they’ll happily teach you.

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Many of the songs they perform came over from the Czech lands in the 1800s. If you visit one of the picnics, you’ll likely hear locals singing along in Czech to standards like “A Já Sám” (All By Myself) and “Když Jsme Opustili Prahu” (Farewell to Prague, or the Shiner Song, depending on who’s singing).

Ammannsville Ch

3651 S. Hwy. 77 La Grange, Tx 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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Each parish holds an auction at their picnic to raise money for the church, and it’s often the church’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

For those visiting from out of town, it can be a great opportunity to bring home a piece of Fayette County culture. Parishioners donate items to sell in the auction like pickles, noodles, homemade molasses, baked goods, local crafts and antiques. Each parish usually has a few who produce masterpiece quilts for the auction. But be prepared to spend thousands of dollars.

Bring the kids and grandkids. The grounds at each picnic are filled with old-fashioned games for the kids like ring toss, dunking booths, cake walks and train rides. And when the kids run out of quarters for the games, you don’t have to dip into your biergarten fund to keep them happy.

Some of the picnics have a recycling station set up where they pay the kids in quarters to pick up aluminum cans from around the picnic grounds.

Many of the churches are on the famous Painted Churches Tour. If you plan on visiting the Painted Churches, you could schedule your trip to coincide with one of the picnics.

We won’t say which picnic is the best – that might start a holy war – but you can always visit them all and decide for yourself.

Always July 4th

1st Sunday in May & 1st Sunday in October

St. John the Baptist Church in St. John 7026 FM 957 Schulenburg, Texas 78956 (361) 798-5888

Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Hostyn 936 FM 2436 La Grange, Texas 78945 (979) 247-4441

Always August 15th

Sacred Heart Church in Flatonia 516 South Faires Flatonia, Texas 78941 (361) 865-3568

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Praha 821 FM 1295 Flatonia, Texas 78941 (361) 865-3560

2nd Sunday in June

4th Sunday in August

St. Rose of Lima Church in Schulenburg 1010 Lyons Avenue Schulenburg, Texas 78956 (979) 743-3117

Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Cistern 113 Manchester St. Cistern, Texas 78941 (361) 865-3568

3rd Sunday in June (Father’s Day)

St. Mary Church in Ellinger 815 St. Mary’s Church Rd. Ellinger, Texas 78938 (979) 378-2277

1st Sunday in June

St. John the Baptist Church in Ammannsville 7850 Mensik Rd. La Grange, Texas 78945 (979) 743-3117

Sunday before Labor Day

Last Sunday in June

Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in High Hill 2833 FM 2672 Schulenburg, Texas 78956 (979) 561-8455

1st Sunday in July

St. John the Baptist Church in Fayetteville 209 E. Bell St. Fayetteville, Texas 78940 (979) 378-2277

Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Plum 126 Plum Church Road La Grange, Texas 78945 (979) 242-3600 Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Dubina FM Road 1383 Dubina, Texas 78956 (979) 725-8461

3rd Sunday in September

St. Wenceslaus Church in Holman 9538 Anton Salas Loop Holman, Texas 78945 (979) 743-3117

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$25 ENTRY FEE

Includes two drink tickets and all samples of foods, wines and liquors, tasting cup and plate.

Additional drink tickets available for purchase.

5pm to 8pm

ADULTS ONLY TEXAS CZECH HERITAGE CENTER –HANSLIK HALL

FOOD / WINE / LIQUORS

SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY JOSH TIEMANN BAND PHOTO BOOTH BY SIGN GYPSIES

FOR VENDOR INFORMATION CALL 979-968-5756

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

17

ROUND TOP Round Top cannon going off on the town square during the Fourth of July.

Round Top 4th of

July Parade

Round Top is well-known for interesting events. Round Top Antiques Fair is an outdoor gathering of antiques dealers and customers each year in the spring and fall.

The Round Top Festival Institute is a training ground for young musicians. The Shakespeare at Winedale program is administered by the University of Texas at Austin English Department. The town is also known for Moore’s Fort, the oldest building in Fayette County, which was moved there from La Grange. The population was 90 at the 2010 census.

Round uthentic) rn at the (a

Alpenho

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

BierFest Top Octo

TO ROUND TOP

MAYOR LETTER

WELCOME Whether you seek a Junk Gypsy or a Humble Donkey, Round Top is your place, although Round Top isn’t just a place. Round Top is an experience.

With luxury accommodations, such as The Round Top Inn and The Frenchie, and the world-renowned Festival Institute and the Winedale Historical Complex, you’ll find inspiring places to visit. And with great food from eateries such as Royer’s Cafe, Lulu’s Italian and The Garden Company’s Feed & Firewater, you’ll have plenty of pep in your step to explore. Come experience Round Top, and help us celebrate our 150th birthday this year. You’ll soon understand why people keep coming back for more!

Sincerely, Barry Bone, Round Top Mayor

Round Top, Festival Hill Young Person’s concert

Royers Cafe in Round Top

Round Top 4th of July Parade

“Come experience Round Top, and help us celebrate our 150th birthday this year. You’ll soon understand why people keep coming back for more!” - Mayor Barry Bone 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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Round Top

PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS

Mandito’s 102 South Washington Street

Art After School Ukulele & Drumming Class at Round Top Library April 6

Armandos Round Top Houses 304 South White Street

Little Valley Ranch B&B 5130 Jaeger Rd

Outlaws BBQ 4418 S, Texas 237

Bediko’s International Retreat 475 West FM 1291

Lone Star Farm 2218 Hartfield Road

Round Top Festival Institute’s 50th Anniversary Gala - A Golden Jubilee of Music April 18

Paw Paw’s Firehouse Cafe Chelsea’s Meadow 2290 South Highway 237

Belle of Round Top 230 Days End Lane

Madelyn’s Rusty Bike Inn 302 South White Street

19th Annual Poetry at Round Top April 24-26

Popi Burger 104 N Washington St

Black Dog Cabins 3643 Noak Road

Rancho Pillow 11222 Schuster Road

Fine Art Assembly with Houston Grand Opera April 27-28

Round Top Mercantile 438 N Washington St

Colorado Cottage 305 North Live Oak Street

Rocky Creek Farms Barndominium 1530 Kneip Road,

MAY

Royers Pie Haven 190 Henkel Circle

APRIL

Round Top-Warrenton Volunteer Fire Department Feast & Fundraiser 50th Round Top Music Festival Young Artists in Residence May 31

JUNE

Royers Round Top Cafe 105 Main Street The Garden Co. Feed & Firewater 104 West Wantke Road

Cot-N-Coffee at Walhalla 1724 West FM 1291 Coyote Station Lodging 701 North Highway 237 Crazy Cow Ranch Marburger Lane Dippel’s RV Park 702 Rohde Road,

Shakespeare at Winedale 50th Anniversary June 7

The Stone Cellar Pub & Round Top Dance Hall 550 North Washington Street

JULY

Teague’s Tavern 105 North Live Oak Street

Dragonfly Ranch 524 FM 954

Nearby Warrenton Grocery Store 4309 Texas 237 Warrenton, TX 78961

Elisa’s Sunday Haus 611 Bybee Road

4th of July Parade July 4

AUGUST

Round Top’s 150 Anniversary Celebration August 1

SEPTEMBER

148th Annual Schützenfest

LODGING

Fall Antiques Show September 17-October 4

1852 Texas Historical House 301 South Washington Street

RESTAURANTS

A Light Unto My Path 2195 FM 1457

Round Top Coffee Shop 111 W Wantke St Lulu’s 204 East Mill Street

Abbie’s Addition RV Park & Guest Cottage 2336 South Highway 237

20 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Dragonfly Moments 4100 FM 2714

Farmhouse Round Top 5686 FM-1457 Farmstead Round Top 219 FM 954 Flophouze Hotel 1132 West FM 1291 Good Haus Cottage 4749 South Highway 237 Green Acres Bed & Breakfast 6621 FM 1457

Rose Hill Cottages 304 West Mill Street Rose Inn Round Top 116 North White Street Round Top Inn 407 South White Street Round Top’s Little Colony 2250 Hartfield Road Round Top RV Park 601 N Washington St, Stay in Round Top 2260 Harfield Road Ten Oaks Round Top 509 North Live Oak Street The Arbors 1503 N. Hwy 237 The Baroness 1642 Round Top Road The Blue Moon Cottage 151 Floyd Lane The Cottages on Mill Creek 5696 Wagner Road

The Frenchie 311 North Live Oak Street

Lone Star Glamp Inn 4212 Highway 237 Warrenton, TX 78961

CHURCHES BAPTIST

The Ghost Haus 700 Rohde Road The Silverspur at Round Top 7045 FM 954 The Vintage Round Top 1450 North Highway 237 Three Oaks Farm 5728 Highway 237 Triple Creek Ranch Lodges 1707 Highway 237 Wanda’s Haus 203 Bauer Rummel Road Wander Inn 1215 Highway 237

Big Spring Hill Baptist Oldenburg Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11 a.m.

(979) 249-4006 Concord Baptist Church Worship 10:30 a.m. every second Sunday of the month

SHARED LUTHERAN

Shared Lutheran Ministry of Fayette County St. John’s in Warrenton 4446 South State Highway 237 Worship 8:30 a.m. www.sharedlutheranministry.org (979) 249-3155

LUTHERAN

Bethlehem Lutheran 412 S White St. Worship 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School 10:15 a.m. on first and third Sunday Fourth Sunday, Friendship Bunch, 10:15 a.m.

(979) 249-3686

PENTECOST

Crusade For Souls Ministry 5911 Wynne Ln. in Walhalla Worship noon 1st & 3rd Sun. 249-3874

OTHERS

RT Church Christian Fellowship 440 E Mill St. Sunday School 9:15 a.m.

Worship 10:45 a.m. www.roundtopchurch.org (979) 249-5085

FESTIVALS Spring Antiques Show March 19-April 5 and Fall Antiques Show September 17-October 4 The Spring and Fall Antique Festivals are held in Round Top and surrounding communities.

It is nationally recognized as one of the largest antique markets in America, drawing thousands of dealers to tents, fields, and buildings.

Round Top

The Creek at Round Top 3142 FM 1457

148th Annual Schützenfest Dinner, dancing, and the crowning of the crackshot König (King) are the highlights of this target-shooting competition which dates back to 1965.

Nearby Alpen Haus 8116 Bauer Road Oldenburg, Texas 78940

DESTINATION

THE HAUS 303 South White Street, Round Top (281) 825-1705 rosefarmhaus@gmail.com Vintage and Antique Treasures and Whimsies

MUSE COLLECTIVE JEWELRY (713) 557-8478 musecollectivejewelry.com

LYRIC SALON Brooke Michie Curly Hair Master By appointment 303 South White St. Round Top (512)294-8641 lyricsalon.com

Round Top, Texas

ROUND TOP COFFEE SHOP FORMERLY ESPRESSIONS COFFEE Same owners...Different Name 111 W. Wantke St., Round Top (214) 356-3280 Tuesday-Thursday 8 am-12:30 pm, Friday-Saturday 8 am-5 pm Closed Monday Spring 2020 Antique Show Hours: 8 am-5 pm Coffee, Breakfast, Gifts, and Art Come for Coffee, Stay for Community

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

21

DUSTING OFF THE MAGIC AT

Photo by Rustic White Photography

Wander Inn

Junk Gypsy sisters Amie and Jolie Sikes put down roots in Round Top WRITTEN BY KIRSTEN CORNELL

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Photo by April Pizana Photography

By now it’s too late. You’re under the spell and there’s no turning back. Welcome to the Wander Inn—a place where ramblers and adventures are not only received but expected.

Round Top

As soon as you turn down the road and the soles of your boots hit the drive, something stirs in your soul. Maybe it’s the seemingly endless rows of trees, the sprawling grounds, or the inviting porch. Perhaps you’re suckered in by the gypsy dust floating from the windows, beckoning your curious mind to come inside—to see what lies behind the cedar planks.

It’s been nearly two decades since the Sikes sisters dusted off their boots in Round Top for the first time, drawn in by the famous Texas Antiques Week. The lure of the flea market and the magic of Round Top captured their hearts and years later, they planted some of their gypsy roots in the Texas town.

“It seemed crazy then. And to some, it still seems crazy; moving to and putting a business in a town with a population of 90,” recalls Jolie Sikes. But at the end of the day, we knew that we didn’t just want to be in the country, we had to be in the country. We wanted Junk Gypsy to be in the country, where she belonged.”

Photo by Kelly Chris tine Sutton

Finding Mayberry

Driven by the need for less concrete, more trees, and the ability to see stars, Amie and Jolie began to build their community among their newfound love of Texas’ Mayberry.

Story to Tell

“The Wander Inn found us, I guess you’d say,” Amie recalls. “We weren’t in the market to buy an inn, nor had the thought ever crossed our minds. But then when it happened, we realized it was the one thing we never knew we needed.”

“And now we are inn owners,” Jolie chimes in with a laugh.

Since buying the inn, the Junk Gypsies—along with their mom, Janie—have been hard at work peeling away the layers of granny’s bed and breakfast and giving it a gypsy-worthy makeover. “Being lifelong travelers ourselves we’ve learned a thing or two about what we like, so we sat in the rooms and envisioned our perfect combination of elements, amazing décor, roadside treasures, great showers, gorgeous bedding, rooms with a view and of course, a place that has a story to tell,” says Jolie.

Each room in the inn is filled with distinct elements and color palettes—a monument to the collection of treasures the sisters have found over the years. Starting with a unique door or a metal sign, each space in the inn took on its shape and told its tale.

“Wander Inn is a personal showcase of what we do and how we do it,” says Amie. “It’s Junk Gypsy set in motion. It’s us and this special place that is our home. Americana with some rock n’ roll and cowboy mixed in with the nostalgic feel of a motor court.”

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23

In the Details

Aptly named, the Wanderlust room, draped in whites and neutrals, features a queen size bed boasting an ornate Spanish carved headboard. Using that as the building block for inspiration, the room leaps into gypsy style with a vintage leather loveseat and a set of gold wings adorning the wall.

Photo by Pierce Ingram

With wall-to-wall cedar floors, the Bandita room has a southwestern flair with a bright turquoise ombre wall and vintage red leather Chesterfield sofa. Western art and Old Mexico carved headboards solidify the ambiance. But the real deal? French doors leading out to the porch with rocking chairs, ready to take in a true southern sunset.

Country Delight takes its inspiration, and its name, from one of their favorite finds ever—a rusty metal sign with “Country Delight” emblazoned across it. While the sign serves a dual purpose as the headboard, a vintage-cut loveseat doubles as a footboard. And to prevent lost travelers, large marquee letters spelling G-Y-P-S-Y light your path.

Photo by Kelly

Christine Sutto

n

But, because every cowgirl has her secrets, you’ll need to book a chat session in the Star House to hear about the rest.

Personal Touches

Though they claim to be inexperienced as hoteliers, the Junk Gypsies have traveled extensively and feel they have a pulse on what their guests are looking for when they grace their front porch steps.

“We like style and quality, but not pretense. We like comfortable beds, but I don’t like having to make them,” Amie laughs. Paying homage to their affinity for music and books, a record player and albums are housed in every room and books from their personal collection are scattered about for fellow bibliophiles.

Unlike most formal places, Wander Inn is attainable—put your feet up and stay awhile attainable. “We want our guests to feel like they’re at home here, even if they wouldn’t decorate their homes exactly this way,” adds Jolie.

However, arguably one of the best parts about the inn hardly took any design work at all—at least, not by the Junk Gypsies.

More Connection

The land seems to roll up the porches, beckoning guests to drink in the calmness of the country surroundings. Take deep breaths of the air and relax fully into a waiting rocker. It’s a place where you can get to know the person sitting next to you, enjoy a cold beverage, or simply, sit. The inn purposely does not have television (and they fought belt and spur before getting Wi-Fi) because as Amie says, “we wanted your time in Round Top to be spent with ‘less signal and more connection.’”

But travelers aren’t the only ones infatuated with the Wander Inn. The Junk Gypsies housed film crews and filmed three seasons

24

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Round Top 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

25

of their show for HGTV and GAC on the property. “We’ve been a veritable ‘halfway house’ for vagabond junk dealers, traveling musicians, itinerant cowboys, rogue camper caravans, and some of our gypsy friends who are hell-bent on wandering,” laughs Jolie. “We’ve designed our Pottery Barn collection here and hunkered down and wrote our book, which is the reason the subtitle became ‘at the crossroads of wonder & wander.’”

They even welcomed country sensation Miranda Lambert and became a part of the magic that is The Weight of These Wings.

Piece of Magic

The sisters will insist that the Wander Inn is not about luxury (although there’s a fair amount of that to be found), it’s about the land and the experience of Round Top. It’s about the simple things—decked out with a few velvet sofas, some glitter, and well-placed metal art. It’s a place where you can explore, meet kindred spirits, and rejuvenate your creative soul.

“There’s an old-fashioned magic to slowing down on our country roads and seeing our vast collection of Texas farmhouses, eating homemade apple pie at Royer’s Cafe, getting lost in the gardens at Festival Hill, and digging for a treasure or two,” Amie says.

“Hook, line, and sinker we bought into every little piece of magic,” adds Jolie. “So come stay with us and slowdown in Round Top…90 folks can’t be wrong!”

Gypsy Chat FUN FACTS ABOUT THE JUNK GYPSY SISTERS!

Amie

Guilty Pleasure: Watching Yellowstone Favorite Junk Food: Dr. Pepper Best Book You’ve Read: West with the Night, Beryl Markham Best Dance Move: Single-handedly maneuvering a huge prom dress, 20 lbs. of jewelry, and cowgirl boots at our Junk-o-Rama prom Favorite Leisure Activity: Sitting on the back porch doing nothing Favorite Thing in Your Closet Right Now: Sequin pants Strangest Thing in Your Handbag: Work gloves Craziest Thing You’ve Refurbished: Turning an airstream into a rolling saloon for Miranda Lambert Current Power Jam: Lizzo’s “Good as Hell” Currently Binge-watching: Cheer on Netflix

o! f n I der

Insi

Plans to double the Wander Inn’s capacity within the next year are off the sketchbook and on the move.

The Gypsy Farmhouse—a 1952 Sears Kit House and original to the property—has been fully

Jolie

Guilty Pleasure: Dark chocolate. Er’day Favorite Junk Food: Pizza Best Book You’ve Read: Most recently, Where the Crawdads Sing Best Dance Move: Running Man…keeping it classy, y’all Favorite Leisure Activity: What’s that?

Favorite Thing in Your Closet Right Now: Boots. Always boots Strangest Thing in Your Handbag: An avocado Current Power Jam: Anything by Guns n’ Roses Currently Binge-watching: Cheer on Netflix

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

restored by the Junk Gypsies and is ready to house you and your 11 fellow adventurer seekers.

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

27

1973 James D ick on the grou nds of Henkel Squa re. First site of concerts in Fa yette County.

Festival Institute founder James Dick.

1957 gram from Recital pro - first eleven nts Past stude ts at Festival Hill. den u st o n ia p

Festival Hill TURNS 50 THIS YEAR WRITTEN BY H.H. HOWZE

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

His main thought, he said Tuesday after lunch at the Menke House dining room, “was to have a place to teach in the summer.” The young prodigy had finished studying in Europe and was starting his concert career.

He had students back home in Hutchinson, Kansas when he was 15 years old and again when he was a piano student at the University of Texas at Austin.

Another thing he never dreamt about was the number of graduates of the Festival Hill Summer Institute who have gone on to distinguished music careers and are now sending their students to study at Festival Hill.

Fifty years on, Festival Hill is still a relative newcomer among wellknown classical music festivals. “Tanglewood started in the 30s, we started in the 70s; Aspen probably started in the late 40s,” he mused.

Another great music anniversary occurs this year – the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth– and the maestro says to expect a lot of his music in the coming season.

The summer class of almost 100 young professionals is shaping up, but the Institute has to raise “about a half million dollars in scholarships. That’s what keeps me up at 4 in the morning,” Dick said.

The 50th anniversary musical year began on New Year’s day with a sold out organ concert in the Edythe Bates Old Chapel (the former La Grange first Methodist Church).

James Dick, fresh off his triumphant Carnegie Hall recital last month, will play a concert in March.

The Gala on April 18 is “the most special event of the year.” A large tent – “the largest we could get” – will be erected on the grounds to host the event. Guests will be met with violin and harp music by former Festival Hill students. The locals have stepped up: only six tables remain. There is a waiting list for individual tickets. Included events are a cocktail reception, 50 years of photographs and videos streaming during the event, a live auction, dancing and jazz to follow and an elegant seated dinner and a welcome by James Dick with responses from former students.

Round Top

Festival Hill in Round Top turns 50 years old this year, but founder James Dick says that when he began his signature project, “I never ever thought about a 50th anniversary.”

Dick said he feels like this is “the worst of times, and the best of times. I’ve lost my great brother, Richard Royall (who died last year) and there is no one who deserved to be here more than he.”

Cinda and Armando Palacios are catering. There will be valet parking. Ledbetter’s Cooper Distillery is another sponsor.

Underwriting credit is still available (contact event coordinator Pat Johnson).

The regular concert season begins June 6 and runs through July 11.

The traditional August to April series begins the following month.

A book on the history of Festival Hill is due later this year published

by Herring Press.

Future plans are for the Ensemble Center attached to the concert hall which will provide much needed space for rehearsals, breakout rooms, dressing rooms and storage for large musical instruments.

Naming opportunities are available and there is a $700,000 matching grant from the Herzstein Foundation.

“It will be like the 50th anniversary birthday present,” Johnson said.

Celebrating 50 Years of “Wow!”

Ju Mu Rou ne si n 6- c F dT Ju esT op ly iv 11 al ,2 02 0

Concerts Dance Theatre Poetry Conferences Forums Retreats Celebrations Weddings Receptions Gardens Picnics Campus Tours Group Lunches Family Reunions Photo Shoots

Round Top FesTival2020 insTiTuTe SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

International Center for Performance and Learning

(979) 249-3129 • www.festivalhill.org

29

ROUND TOP’S

Talented two The Art of Tobola and Maxwell

Gerald Tobola

Gerald Tobola, a copper artist, left the corporate world in 2003, and transitioned from hobbyist to a full-time artisan. He has worked exclusively in copper for twenty years. Gerald’s first work was one of necessity as he explains, “I had a Mesquite lamp base in need of a shade, that in my mind, had to be copper”. Gerald found that he was drawn to copper - a material that is malleable and forgiving, but its surface is unpredictable, each piece reacting to its environment, developing its own patina as it ages. His love of nature, especially tree leaves, is his top inspiration.

Gerald and Debbie, his wife, own and manage Copper Shade Tree, a fine craft gallery in Round Top, Texas. Their gallery is devoted to Texas artists. Gerald has appeared on HGTV, a national television network, where he demonstrated his craft, as well as, Texas Country Reporter. His work was displayed at the Smithsonian Institute Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage in Washington D.C. , where he represented Texas.

Copper Shade Tree Gallery

The first fine art and craft gallery in Round Top, Texas opened its doors in 2006. Located in the heart of Round Top, the gallery exhibits a wonderful collection of decorative fine arts and fine crafts, handcrafted

by Texas artisans, with a few exceptions along the way. In addition, art events are scheduled throughout the year to showcase a wide range of fine art and craft mediums and disciplines from across the state. Most of the artists are from within a 250 mile radius of Round Top. Many of the artists are nationally recognized, have appeared on various television shows, and published in local, national - international publications.

Debbie and Gerald are always glad to see you. Your first visit will not be your last.

Sally Maxwell

Sally Maxwell has been a fine artist working in Scratchboard since 1968.

Her first introduction to the medium was through a book on the subject given to her by her first husband, along with the necessary supplies.

He wanted her to use it as a graphic illustration medium. She taught herself and then developed a desire to use it as a fine art medium. She experimented with color in the medium and eventually perfected it.

Her main goal in life, after falling in love with the medium, was to have is recognized as a fine art medium not a commercial art one. It now is with many museums in the world having scratchboard works in their collections as well as in their exhibitions.

Sally is also recognized as the leader in full color scratchboard art. She is a Master in the International Society of Scratchboard Artists as well as the American Women Artists. Her work spanned many decades and outlets as fine art prints and collector plates have been issued of her images. Her move to Texas 35 years ago brought many changes including a new husband, George Maxwell (she was Sally Miller before that). It also introduced her to a new type of Scratchboard, made right here in Austin, TX. She partnered with Ampersand Art Materials to write How To books as well as nearly 30 How To kits and an intensive video. She credits herself in teaching a whole generation of people

30 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

internationally internationally, how to do scratchboard scratchboard.

Sally and George have lived in LaGrange for their whole married life, traveling far and wide for reference photos of her subjects and to make appearances in the Galleries that feature her work. Many years were spent showing her work at juried art shows nationally before settling on having her own Gallery.

Maxwell’s Art Gallery

The Gallery happened by chance and Karma. It was planned to happen when George retired from Maxwell Motors, his used car business in La Grange. That will not take place for more than a year but when the cute log cabin was open for rent, it could not be passed up. So now they both are juggling time at the gallery with their busy lives.

Sally has had two other Art Galleries in her career. One in Richmond Illinois with two partners and one in downtown La Grange 30 years ago. It suffered during the oil drop in the 80’s and she went to work designing Collector Plates.

She has four other Galleries that carry her work nationally, in Santa Fe, NM and Jackson Hole, WY and South Lake Tahoe, CA plus next door to the cabin, in Copper Shade Tree! None of the big city ones compare to the intimate experience you get from visiting the 400 square feet two room cottage. The log walls show off the original scratchboards as well as the Giclee reproductions. The prints are available framed or unframed.

You are ensured of a quick lesson about scratchboard and are able to try it yourself when you visit. On weekends or by chance you may find Sally there working on her small drawing board in the font room. If she is not there, the piece she is working on will be. Stop in and see it.

Located at 104 Schumann Lane, Round Top, TX 979-966-7300 www.sallymaxwell.com

TWO LOCAL ARTISTS CO OP

REE

g ll r gallery

COPPERSHADETREE.COM

©2020 The Fayette County Record

Your first visit will not be your last!

M

galle llery

SALLYMAXWELL.COM COPPER SHADE TREE 102 SCHUMANN LANE HENKEL SQUARE MARKET | ROUND TOP | 979-249-4127 MAXWELL’S ART GALLERY 104 SCHUMANN LANE HENKEL SQUARE MARKET | ROUND TOP | 979-966-7300

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979-968-5813 32

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

A Special Place We are the Smallest Accredited Library in the State of Texas Stop by to check out our book, audiobook, and DVD collections or attend one of our community service programs for all ages.

The Library is funded through private donations, events, volunteers, grants, and community partnerships.

206 West Mill, Round Top, TX 78954 • (979) 249-2700 • www.ilovetoread.org

TOP ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: Jack Maddox, Kyla Goebel, Tootie Lyons Rixman, Nadine Hufnall, Arlene Johnsey, Dovie Morgan, Jan Carroll, Jeannette Burger, Lilla Blackburn Sivek, Lisa Mayer, Frank Hillbolt, Denise Jacobs BOTTOM ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT:Connie Burch, Liz Blome, Helen Hink, Renee Diehl, Ruth Ann Streiff, Ashley Mitchell, Lila Garlin, Caitlin Jacob, Chris Nevins, Shelby Levy, Christopher Diehl, Sherry Krenek, Bryan Roberts NOT PICTURED: Deborah Behringer

Helping you discover the charm of country living since 1988.

NEW ULM | 353 Hickory | 3BD/2BA | High Ceilings Open Floor Plan | Restored and Updated | $399,000

ROUND TOP | 711 Round Top Road | 18 Acres | 4BD/4BA | Farmhouse | 3BD/2BA Additional House | $1,875,000

LA GRANGE | 3660 Guenther Road | 6 Acres | 4BD/5BA | Overlooking 7+ Acre Lake | Pool | Outdoor Kitchen | $1,295,000

Growing to give you better service with two locations.

101 Main Street Round Top, Texas 78954

roundtoprealestate.com 979-249-5732

103 N. Main Street La Grange, Texas 78954

SCHULENBURG Schulenburg Festival crowd Schulenburg’s Se ngelmann Hall

Schulenburg is a city known for its German, Austrian, and Czech culture. It is home to the Texas Polka Music Museum, which honors Texas polka bands and musicians of Czech, German and Polish ancestry. Enjoy the Painted Churches Tour, the Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum, and visit local Vineyards & Wineries. The population was 2,852 at the 2010 census.

34 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

g Schulenbur

City Museu

m

TO SCHULENBURG

MAYOR LETTER

WELCOME “Halfway to Everywhere” is the best way to describe Schulenburg. We are half way to Houston, San Antonio, Austin and Victoria - you might even say halfway to heaven being the “Home of the Painted Churches.” When you meet in the middle, - you will find friendly folks, famous cooking and some of the most beautiful countryside around.

Schulenburg’s heritage is rich in history, fellowship and tradition. Our history began in 1873 with the arrival of the railroad. Businesses began and faithful followers moved to town. The predominately German and Czech heritage folks thrived on hard work and building their town and homes. They were just as committed to building churches, schools and community meeting places with much music and good fellowship throughout. We continue that tradition today with our annual Schulenburg Sausagefest held in the Spring which highlights the Czech and German heritage with a sausage cook-off and polka music. The annual Schulenburg Festival is held on the first weekend of August and features three fun-filled days of family entertainment.

Our town is fortunate to have a variety of locally owned businesses and shops, restaurants, cafes and eateries, meat markets and bakeries and churches of all faiths. We have something for everyone. We have parks and fitness centers, walking and jogging trails and activities for the young and old. We have hotels and Air B & Bs. History is abundant with the Schulenburg Historical Museum, the Texas Polka Museum and the Stanzel Model Airplane Museum. The Schulenburg Public Library is one of most technology advanced libraries. “Schulenburg” is German for “school house” - and here we are, home of the Schulenburg High School Shorthorns and Lady Horns, the Saint Rose of Lima Cardinals and Blinn Junior College.

Sincerely, Elaine Kocian, Schulenburg Mayor Schulenburg Stanzel Museum inside

Schulenburg Sengelmann Hall inside

Schulenburg Sausagefest

“Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway - Schulenburg is the place to be - ‘cause most don’t want to leave! Come see us.”

- Mayor Elaine Kocian

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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Schulenburg

PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS APRIL

Sausagefest April 4

MAY

Jack Hooper Day at the Ballpark & Home Run Derby May 2

JUNE

90 Miles on Hwy 90 Garage Sales-From Sealy to Luling with all towns in between June 5-6

JULY

Schulenburg Festival July 31-August 2

SEPTEMBER

Wine-O-Bingo at the Schulenburg Civic Center

RESTAURANTS Auntie Anne’s 709 US-77

Subway 14 North Kessler Avenue Sugar Jim’s 746 US 90 T&T Super Donuts 304 Kessler Ave Taco Bell 709 US-77 The Garden Co. Marketplace & Cafe 217 Kessler Avenue Tillie’s Cafe 621 North Main Street Whataburger 40 North Kessler Avenue

LODGING Americas Best Value Inn 205 West Interstate 10 Frontage Road

CHURCHES CATHOLIC

Sts. Cyril & Methodius Dubina Sun. Mass 8:45 a.m.

(979) 725-6715 St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 7026 FM 957 (979) 798-5888 St. Mary’s Catholic High Hill Sat. Mass 6:30 p.m. & Wed. Mass 7 a.m. www.stmary-highhill.com (979) 561-8455 St. Rose of Lima 1010 Lyons Ave. Sat. Mass 5 p.m., Sun. Mass 7:30 a.m. & 10 a.m., Noon Spanish Mass www.victoriadiocese.org (979) 743-3117

LUTHERAN

United Evangelical Lutheran Swiss Alp Worship 9:15 a.m.

Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

(979) 247-4151

Cinnabon 709 US-77

Best Western Plus Schulenburg Inn & Suites 101 Huser Boulevard

City Market Schulenburg 109 Kessler Avenue

Das Meyer Haus 527 Anderson St.

Dairy Queen 77 North Kessler Avenue

Executive Inn & Suites 800 US-77

JJ’s Kountry Kitchen 30 East Avenue

Farmhouse & Cabin at Freyburg BAPTIST First Baptist Church Abbotts Grove School Rd. 110 N. Upton Sunday Worship 10:45 Hattie’s Haus Bible Study 9:30 a.m.

12020 FM 1383 (979) 743-3621 Holiday Inn Express & Suites 200 METHODIST Heinrich Street First United Methodist 209 N Upton Ave Klekar-Gin Farm Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

5921 Klekar-Gin Rd. Worship 10:30 a.m. www.schulenburgmethodist.com Middle Creek Place (979) 743-3333 2301 Demel Rd,

Kountry Bakery 110 Kessler Avenue Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant 104 Kessler Avenue Lucy Tequilas 50 Kessler Avenue Mi Casita Restaurant 514 Summit Street Momma’s at Sengelmann Hall 531 North Main Street S Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant 712 US-77 PJ Fresh Marketplace 709 US-77 Tito’s Cafe 405 Summit Street

Schulenburg RV Park 65 N Kessler Ave, The Gathering at Mulberry Creek 5718 Kainer Road

Zion Lutheran 103 Keuper Ave Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship 10 a.m.

(979) 743-3842

Freyburg United Methodist 4520 FM 2238 Worship 8:30 a.m. every Sunday www.freyburgumc.org (979) 217-1151

PRESBYTERIAN

St. Paul Presbyterian, Schulenburg 712 Summit St Adult Bible Study 9:30 a.m.

The Stopover (Airbnb) Worship 10:30 a.m.

Vintage Texas Charmer (Airbnb) (979) 743-3426 The Otto House (Airbnb)

36 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

OTHERS

Crossroads Christian Fellowship Contemporary Worship, NonDenominational 701 Lyons Ave. Bible Study 9:30 a.m.

Worship.10:30a.m. www.ccfellowship.net (979) 743-9040 Temple Israel of Schulenburg 211 Baumgarten St High Holy Days, Pesach Kabbalat Shabbat www.templeisrael.webs.com

PICNICS JUNE

2nd Sunday in June St. Rose of Lima Church in Schulenburg 1010 Lyons Avenue (979) 743-3117 www.victoriadiocese.org

JULY

1st Sunday in July Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Dubina FM Road 1383 Dubina, Texas 78956 (979) 725-8461 Always July 4th St. John the Baptist Church 7026 FM 957 (361) 798-5888

SEPTEMBER

Sunday before Labor Day Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in High Hill 2833 FM 2672 (979) 561-8455

FESTIVALS Sausagefest April 4 Enjoy Texas’ shortest parade, live music, the Wurst Run Ever (Fun Run), Sausage Tossing Contest, Hog Calling Contest, Homemade Wine, Pickles and Sauerkraut Contests and so much more.

Schulenburg Festival July 31-August 2 Always the first weekend in August, the Schulenburg Festival offers a weekend of live music, cook-offs, tournaments, a rodeo, and a lot more fun! Participate in the Cow Chip and Egg Toss and watch the parade.

Schulenburg

DESTINATION

Schulenburg THE FLOWER BOX JACK AND MARY’S SVETLIK FARM CRYSTAL THREADS 615 N Main St, Schulenburg 610 Lyons Ave, Schulenburg 102 N Kessler Ave, Schulenburg 2616 FM 2672, Schulenburg (979) 743-3219 (979) 966-7402 (979) 743 3219 (979) 743-4846 theflowerbox_schulenburg@verizon.net General Goods info@svetlikfarm.com facebook.com/crystalthreads78956 www.schulenburgflorist.com Communal Space www.svetlikfarm.com Monday 1-5, Tuesday-Friday 10-5:30, M-F 9-5 & Sat. 9-1 facebook.com/jackandmarystheburg and Saturday 10-4 Closed Sunday

Want to advertise in the Schulenburg destination page? Contact Becky Weise at (979) 968-3155

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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SCHULENBURG’S BEAUTIFUL

Painted churches Schulenburg is home to some of the most unique churches in the world WRITTEN BY KARA KOETHER

St. Mary’s Catholic Church | Praha

St. Mary’s Catholic Church was dedicated under the name Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and is located three miles east of Flatonia in Praha, Texas. St. Mary’s Parish was established in 1855 and the church was later built on a tract of land which was donated in 1865. A small frame hut was initially built to offer mass. The present St. Mary’s Catholic Church is the oldest of the four famous painted churches in Fayette County, built in 1895.

Sts. Cyril & Methodius Cat holic Church in Dubina, Texas

The stone used to build the church came from a quarry in Muldoon about 20 miles from the church; the people took their wagons and tools to the quarry and brought back giant blocks of stone, and then chiseled away until they had the right size stones to build the church. Many courthouses in Texas are built from the same stone, as well as the Galveston Sea Wall.

St. Mary’s Catholic Church is a Gothic Revival structure, and the steeple and windows point to God. The steeple itself is very high, and when the time came for someone to climb the steeple to place the cross at the top, no one wanted to do it. The community didn’t have any steeplejacks, so they asked for a volunteer–but none came forward because they were afraid of

olic Church in St. Mary’s Cath Praha, Texas

climbing so high. Finally, a family proclaimed that they would give a keg of beer to anyone that volunteered to climb up and place the cross. Shortly after the announcement, an unnamed man showed up, bravely climbed the steeple, placed the cross, and came back down to claim his prize before leaving.

The doors of the church are painted with portraits of St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Cyril, and St. Methodius, who were very important to the Czechs. On the inside, there are sculptures of Jesus on the cross, paintings of Jesus giving sight to the blind man, the Father and the Prodigal Son, and St. John listening to the confession of Our Lady of Bohemia. There are also stations of the cross placed all around the church, which all came from Rome. And in the extensive renovations that took place a couple of years ago in 2016, the original hardwood longleaf pine flooring was uncovered.

When the Czechs finished the church, they wanted it painted on the inside, and it was very important to them to have a very good artist, which was hard to find in 1895. They found a wonderful, famous Swiss artist in San Antonio, who came and painted as Michelangelo would have painted the Sistine Chapel–on his

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

St. Mary’s Cath olic Church in High Hill, Texas

The Praha Cemetery, which was dedicated in 1865, is home to a monument that honors nine young men who lost their lives on the battlefields in World War II. Each year on the Sunday before Veteran’s Day, a memorial service is held in remembrance of those brave men who fought for their country. August 15 is a Holy Day of Obligation for the Assumption of Mary each year. On this day, Praha holds its “Prazka Pout,” which means “homecoming,” and is an annual feast, or church picnic.

Schulenburg

back. It has never been repainted since then. The Praha church still holds the beauty, hard work, and memories that have been put forth by its ancestors who lived there.

More information can be found in the video tour recorded live

by The Fayette County Record by searching “Fayette County Record Praha Church” on Facebook.

Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church | Dubina

Today’s Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church was built in 1911 in a grove of ancient oaks; in fact, “Dubina” translates to “oak grove.” Interestingly enough, the church did exist before 1911.

The original church was built in 1877, and in 1890 the church was even expanded to serve over 600 families. Unfortunately, a tropical storm completely destroyed the original church and it had to be rebuilt from the ground up. This is why the plaque on the front of the church reads 1911. Today, an average of a little over 50 families attend the church on a regular basis.

Luckily, a few items were able to be salvaged from the original church, including the iron cross that is perched on the top of Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church. It was made by a freed African American slave by the name of Tom Lee, who was a blacksmith.

They were also able to salvage the chandelier and a few of the nativity scenes inside the church. A couple of the original pews were also spared, which sit in the upstairs section; however, they aren’t a part of the regular tour.

In the foyer and throughout the church, there is beautiful painted stenciling on the walls. The altars at the front of the church were imported from Europe. They were able to ship freight from the New York harbor to the Galveston Bay, and then bring it as far west as Dubina by the railroad. Even the stations of the cross were brought from Europe, so all of the wording on the sculptures are written in Czech.

When the church was celebrating their 75th year of operation, they decided to clean up the church a bit. Some of the parishioners whitewashed the whole church without realizing the significance of the painted ceiling. Ed Janecka noticed that there was something different about the church, so he led the restoration. It took until 1983 for the church to be complete restored under the supervision of an art conservator. It was during this restoration that the 24 karat gold stars on the ceiling ‘came out.’ There are at least 3,000 stars.

Each star is not only a Star of David as we know it today, but the six points represent the six attributes of God: love, majesty, justice, wisdom, mercy, and power. The six points also represent the six days that it took God to create the earth.

Every first Sunday in July, Dubina hosts their annual church feast.

Each year, thousands of people congregate on the grounds to enjoy a wonderful fried chicken meal and a variety of games and activities for adults and children alike. Between four and five thousand plates are sold each year.

More information can be found in the video tour recorded live by The Fayette County Record by searching “Fayette County Record Dubina Church” on Facebook.

St. Mary Catholic Church | High Hill

St. Mary Catholic Church in High Hill is known as “The Queen of the Painted Churches” in The Painted Churches of Texas tour, and is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. It’s located three miles north of Schulenburg in an area called High Hill, which was established over 150 years ago. St. Mary in High Hill is dramatically different from the other painted churches, as it is much larger and built with brick, as opposed to some of the others, which are wooden. St. Mary in High Hill is also a mission church of St. Rose of Lima, which means there is no priest living on the grounds. There are two priests in Schulenburg that have a huge territory, who are not itinerant nor traveling priests, but have assigned parishes that they serve. Today, the building that was once the priest’s home now serves as the gift shop for the painted churches, and is open in conjunction with the tours.

The church that stands today is the third church to be built on the site. The first two were made of wood before the congregations outgrew them and had to rebuild. The first was built in 1869, and the second, larger church was built in 1876.

When it came time for the final rebuild, the Bishop said that he wouldn’t bless the church unless it was made from brick or stone

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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because he remembered the churches in the area that had been destroyed by storms and fires. The bricks were handmade down at Foster’s Creek and the stone on the outside of the church was quarried at Muldoon.

St. John Th eB Ammannsv aptist in ille, Texas

The second church featured the addition of stained-glass windows imported from Europe, which were built in 1899 and stored in a barn until they were able to be moved into the newest and largest building, which was built in 1906 and painted in 1912. They display incredible detail that simply cannot be found anymore. The names on the bottom of the windows are the names of the families who sponsored each window. The windows incorporated a lot of the symbolism that is important to Catholics. For example, the window above the confessional portrays the Eye of the Divine Providence, which is the “all-seeing eye of God.”

A

The hollow, wooden pillars spaced throughout the interior of the church are, in typical Gothic revival style, supporting the vaulted ceilings of the church. They were painted with turkey feathers to give them the appearance of being made of stone. There are statues of many saints mounted on the pillars, with the male on the right of the center aisle and the females on the left. This is also the manner in which the congregation divided up when attending services for many years; women sat in the pews on the left and men sat on the right.

There are also many beautiful paintings on the walls above the stained-glass windows, again depicting significant images that are symbolic to Catholics. For example, one is of a pelican with blood dripping from her beak because it is said that a pelican will peck her breast to draw her own blood in order to feed her chicks until her own death if necessary, which is symbolic of Jesus giving his life for God’s people.

In 2011, a major conservation and restoration project with artist Robert Marshall of R. Alden Marshall & Associates LLC was completed. As a result of the restoration, a treasure was uncovered in the narthex at the front of the church. Two German scriptures, including Psalm 47:10 and Psalm 42:4, were revealed. The first reads, “Wir haben emptangen, o herr, deine Barmherzigkeit im Innern deines Tempels,” and translates to “We have received, O Lord, Your divine mercy within Your temple.” The second reads, “Ich werde eingehem zu Gottes Altar will dich loben mein Gott,” and translates to “I will enter into the altar of God and will praise my god.” The Psalms are said to be from an 1832 German translation of a the Latin Vulgate Bible. It is assumed that the narthex was originally painted when the three bells were hauled up into the bell tower.

More information can be found in the video tour recorded live by The Fayette County Record by searching “Fayette County Record High Hill Church” on Facebook.

St. John the Baptist | Ammannsville

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church was built in 1918 and completed in 1919. It was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1983. Before the current church was built, the first church for the community was built in 1890 before being destroyed by a hurricane in 1909. The second church was built in 1910, which was then destroyed by a fire in 1917. The fire was so hot that it melted

40 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

the bells of the church. Thankfully, some of the parishioners were able to come in and save some of the statuary. The statues that were saved were the Lady of Grace, the Mother of Sorrows, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Lady of Perpetual Health, St. John Baptizing Jesus, two angels placed on each side of the altar today, and the crucifix that is in the entry today.

In 1989, much of the church was restored, including all of the statuary, sections of the wall, and the staircase leading up to the choir loft. The ceiling and walls are a unique, tranquil shade of mauve, and were painted by professional painters based out of San Antonio. The stations of the cross were imported from Europe, and are written in Czech. Similarly to the St. Mary Catholic Church in High Hill, the female saints reside on the left while the male saints are on the right, just as attendees divided themselves up for mass.

This is evident in the presence of hat hooks on the back of the pews on the right side of the church and not the left.

S

A Latin inscription on the arch above the altar reads, “deliciae meae esse cum filiis hominum,” and translates to “my delight is with the children of men,” and comes from Proverbs 8:31. Inside the arch is a grapevine, which is to remind attendees that He is the vine, and the people are the branches. The altars at the front of the church are white and gold, which is a Czech tradition.

Take a tour!

The painted churches are a world-class treasure that Fayette County is fortunate enough to be able to call their own. Tours of Fayette County’s painted churches can be booked by contacting the Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce at (979) 743-4514.

C

2

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Schulenburg Regency Villas Carefree, independent living with superb amenities 979-743-4791

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Schulenburg Regency Nursing Center

Skilled Nursing and Inpatient Rehab 979-743-6537

IT’S A BIRD

It’s a plane

No it’s Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum Nostalgia is what comes to mind when visiting the Stanzel Airplane Museum.

H. J Bott and wife Margaret at the museum.

Houston artist, H. J. Bott, with his wife Margaret, and friend visited the Stanzel Model Airplane Museum. His fascination with planes and model building goes back to his childhood when he and his dad built model planes together. Mr. Bott gave the museum a signed coffee table book featuring his art.

He is noted for a design called the Displacement of Volume Concept (DoV), a single element/module can be found in all of his drawings, paintings, sculptures, installations and even his DoV-ZRobott performances.

©2020 The Fayette County Record

He signed the book - For the Stanzel crew. “Thanks for being here.”

We could tell that he was reliving pleasant memories that others might feel when they visit the museum.

A look

model aircraft museum Museum Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, & Saturday 10:30am-4:30pm

979.743.6559 www.stanzelmuseum.org

311 Baumgarten Street, Schulenburg, TX

42 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

inside th e

museum .

Schulenburg

PAINTED CHURCHES • HISTORIC architecture • DELICIOUS EATS

COZY LODGING • UNIQUE MUSEUMS • AWARD-WINNING WINErieS

For tours or more information please call (866) 504-5294 or visit our website www.schulenburgchamber.org

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Installation, Sales & Service

CUSTOM DESIGNED LAWN SPRINKLERS COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE • ALL BRANDS & SYSTEMS TRENCHING • PVC PIPE CERTIFIED BACKFLOW TESTERS

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Schulenburg • Bastrop • Moulton

Wifi Controllers Available – Irrigation control from your phone!

Free Estimates on New Systems LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

(979) 732-3970 (800) 327-6787 sales@texasirrigation.com • www.texasirrigation.com 1870 Frelsburg Rd. • Cat Spring, TX 78933 Licensed & Insured • Licensed Irrigator Nos. 1373 & 9459 Whyman, Carolyn & Brian Psencik Established in 1983 Major Credit Cards Accepted

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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FLATONIA The Czhilispiel carnival provides fun for all ages.

Flatonia Crawfest Qu

eens

Flatonia is a historic town located on Interstate 10 and the Southern Pacific Railroad, 12 miles west of Schulenburg. It is home to the historic Flatonia Railroad Tower, used from 1902 to 1996, one of Texas’ longest standing, manually-operated railroad switching towers with north-south and east-west cross rails. Enjoy a round of 9-hole golf on the well-maintained golf course. If you’re up for sight seeing, check out the six beautifully painted churches within easy driving distance. The population was 1,383 at the 2010 census.

44 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

ened Theater reop Flatonia’s Lyric a 50-year break er in 2017 aft g movies. from showin

TO FLATONIA

MAYOR LETTER

WELCOME On behalf of the citizens of Flatonia, I would like to welcome you to our little corner of Fayette County. We are very proud of our park areas and pleased that we will be opening a splash pad in our Mulberry Creek Connector park near the current City Pool in McWhirter Park this year. We have several parks that allow our residents and visitors to partake in many different activities, including baseball, softball, frisbee golf, skate park and walking trails. Among all of these activities, we also have several playgrounds for the younger crowd. We are also proud of the growing shopping opportunities in our community as well as our rail park and rail museum. We have restaurants that people from all over our area and travelers make a point to come to enjoy. And if you are looking for a nice place to lay your head, we have a modern hotel as well as several bed and breakfast accommodations for you! Hope to see you soon in Flatonia!

Sincerely, Bryan Milson, Flatonia Mayor

Southern Pacific Caboose No. 4743 is also part of Railroad Park.

The Flatonia Czhilispiel Queen’s Float is a crowd favorite at parades as it appears across Central Texas.

Flatonia’s Tower No. 3 was built in 1902 as part of the town’s railroad interlocker switch. It is now part of the town’s Railroad Park and available for tours.

“We are very proud of our park areas and pleased that we will be opening a splash pad in our Mulberry Creek Connector park near the current City Pool in McWhirter Park this year.” - Mayor Bryan Milson 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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Flatonia

PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS APRIL

Rail Fan Pavilion Party April 4 Easter Egg Hunt at Oak Manor Nursing Center April 4 Flatonia Chamber of Commerce Crawfest April 18 Jerry Weir Golf Tournament April 25 Muldoon Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser April 25

MAY

Olde Town Tea Room & Bakery 625 North La Grange Street Red Vault Bistro 124 East South Main Street Robert’s Steakhouse 1241 N TX-95 Subway 230 East Interstate 10 Frontage Road Wine Haus 110 West North Main Street

Flatonia Rotary Golf Tournament May 9

Nearby Cistern Country Store 12604 North State Hwy 95

JUNE

LODGING

Flatonia Cinco de Mayo Fiesta May 2

90 Miles on Hwy 90 Garage Sales-From Sealy to Luling with all towns in between June 5-6

Best Western Plus Flatonia Inn 310 B East Hwy, Interstate 10 Frontage Road

Summer Fun at the Flatonia City Pool

Carefree Inn 718 North La Grange Street

JULY

Flatonia RV Ranch 2055 Farm to Market Rd 609

Incredible Knockouts-Shrimp Boil July 18 Summer Fun at the Flatonia City Pool

AUGUST

Goose’s Roost Ranch Cottages 815 Scott’s School Road

Flatonia Golf Association-Day & Night Tournament

Olle Hotel 218 South Market Street

Flatonia Education Foundation Golf Tournament August 29

The Ranch Retreat 1826 County Road 283

Summer Fun at the Flatonia City Pool

Sunset Inn 420 East Interstate 10 Frontage Road

RESTAURANTS Amigos Country Corner 1415 FM 609 Dairy Queen 605 North La Grange Street Joel’s Bar-B-Q FM 609 & Interstate 10 Josesitos Mexican Grill 507 East Interstate 10 Frontage Road McDonald’s 709 North La Grange Street

Town Cottages 705 East North Main Street

CHURCHES BAPTIST

Flatonia Baptist 225 E. 6th St. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Worship 10:45 a.m.

VBS June 15-19 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. www.flatoniabaptist.org (361) 865-3813

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Muldoon Baptist 300 Cochran St. Muldoon, TX 78949 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11 a.m. www.muldoonbaptist.com (361) 865-3013 New Union Missionary Baptist 715 Martin Luther King St. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11 a.m.

CATHOLIC

Sacred Heart 516 S Faires St. Sat. Mass 5 p.m. & Sun. Mass 9:30 a.m. www.shsscm.org (361) 865-3568 Sts. Cyril & Methodius, Cistern Sun. Mass 8 a.m. www.shsscm.org (361) 865-3568 St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Praha Sat. Mass 4:30 p.m. & Sun. Mass 8 a.m. www.stmaryspraha.org (361) 596-4674

METHODIST

First United Methodist 403 E. North Main St. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Worship 10:30 a.m.

VBS June 22-26 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. www.flatoniaumc.org (361) 865-2622 Living World Ministries Muldoon Worship 10 a.m. & Wed. 7:30 p.m.

PICNICS JUNE

1st Sunday in June Sacred Heart Church 516 South Faires (361) 865-3568 www.shsscm.org

AUGUST

4th Sunday in August Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Cistern 113 Manchester St. Cistern, Texas 78941 (361) 865-3568

DESTINATION

Flatonia

Flatonia

Always August 15th Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Praha 821 FM 1295 (361) 865-3560 www.stmaryspraha.org

GOOD FOOD - GOOD DRINKS - GREAT TIMES FAYETTE COUNTY’S SOUTHERN BORDER IS A HIDDEN JEWEL CENTRALLY LOCATED OFF INTERSTATE 10 BETWEEN HOUSTON & SAN ANTONIO

FESTIVALS Flatonia Chamber of Commerce Crawfest April 18

The Flatonia Crawfest is a community event headlined by crawdads.

Attendees can expect aisles of tables with hundreds of pounds of crawfish ready to be eaten with a side of shrimp, Joel’s BBQ sausage, corn on the cob, potatoes, tea, beer and Moravia Vineyard Wine. During the event, local musicians perform live and there will be a live and slient auction.

Flatonia Cinco de Mayo Fiesta May 2

Celebrate and enjoy arts and crafts, food booths, music, games, contests, folklorico performances and a car and truck show.

Czhilispiel October 23, 24, 25

Czhilispiel is a nod to Flatonia’s Czech and German heritage. First, the name comes from a play on the word “Chili.� The addition of the “z� is a play on a Czech spelling, and the German work “spiel� means play. Three days of live entertainment, biergarten, carnival, parade, contests, arts and crafts market, 5K, Czhili & BBQ cook offs and various family fun activities throughout the weekend. It is held every year on the fourth full weekend of October.

OLDE TOWN TEA FLOY FARM INTERIOR DESIGN, INC. ROOM & BAKERY 625 N. Lagrange St., Flatonia 625 N. Lagrange St., Flatonia (361) 865-2323 (361) 865-2323 Lunch - Mon-Sat: 10AM - 2PM Mon - Sat: 10AM-4:30PM www.floyfarm.com Bakery - Mon - Sat: 9:30AM - 4:30PM

Want to advertise in the Flatonia destination page?

Contact Becky Weise at (979) 968-3155

E. A. Arnim

†

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Š2020 The Fayette County Record

Archives & Museum

Two buildings house a unique collection that will take you on a journey back through Flatonia’s cultural and historical past to its founding in 1873.

Hours: Thursday and Friday 1 – 4 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. to noon and 1 – 3 p.m.

Available for special tours by appointment.

361-865-3455 or arnimmuseum@att.net 101 E. North Main St., Flatonia, Texas •www.arnimmuseum.org 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

47

The Czhilispiel 47 Court gets ready for the pie auction.

FLATONIA’S

Czhilispiel Flatonia’s Iconic Festival WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY TERRY HAGERTY If David Johnson isn’t the number-one fan of Flatonia’s Czhilispiel celebration, then he’s definitely in the top two. Johnson was enjoying the multiple events last year, the middle of three days of the 47th festival – a nod to Flatonia’s Czech and German heritage which draws visitors from across Texas. “I’ve made all the Czhilispiels since they started, except one when I was in Australia on vacation,” said Johnson, a member of the Flatonia High School Class of 1955 who played right guard on the football team. “I was born in 1935 about four miles from here, inWhistleville. I worked 45 and one-half years for the Southern Pacific Railroad, out of San Antonio. Now, I own a little ranch about a mile and a half from here and a have a registered Angus bull, about six years old.” Johnson is a friendly sort, a trait he says Flatonia is well-known for. “You know, all of Flatonia is a friendly town,” Johnson said proudly. Did he get a chance to sample any of the delectable chili being cooked up for competition on a gorgeous blue-sky Saturday? “Oh yeah, We tried a little chili and it was very good.” After saying our goodbye’s, I spotted Johnson a second time. He wore a wide smile as he and his wife two-stepped to the embracing sounds of the Czechaholics band. Word of the good times at Czhilispiel make their way to every corner of the Lone Star State and beyond. Paul and Marie Abshire said they had traveled from Baytown on the Gulf Coast after reading about the event on the Flatonia Chamber of Commerce website. “What surprised us was the number of museums they have here,” Paul said. “We enjoyed learning about the history of Flatonia and seeing the old farm implements they had at one museum.” There was plenty to enjoy

48 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

throughout the day. While entrants prepared for the various cookoff and food competitions, there was live music, a fair with Ferris wheel and other rides, Flatonia High School reunions at the Wine Haus, and egg toss, hairy leg and jalapeno-eating contests. Sunday’s concluding activities offer more live music, a car and truck show, the Czhilispiel Grand Parade, a Halloween costume contest for youth and performances by the Flatonia High School Dazzlers drill team and cheerleaders.

Courtney Davis, from San Antonio , was one of several judges during th e margarita contes t.

2020 Flatonia

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5-6

LA GRANGE Ferris wheel at The Fayette County Fair in La Grange.

La Grange is on the Colorado River, between Houston and Austin on Texas State Highway 71. It is home to the Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Sites. Monument Hill is a memorial to the men who died in the Dawson Massacre and in the Black Bean Episode of the Mier Expedition. The Kreische Brewery site commemorates European immigrants and their contributions. The 2017 population estimate was 4,680.

50 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Easter egg hunt at the Jersey Barnyard.

and La Grange Downtown ing ur d rhead square ove courthouse e County Fair Parade. the Fayett

TO LA GRANGE

MAYOR LETTER

WELCOME Welcome to La Grange, a peaceful community nestled on the banks of the Colorado River, conveniently located between Austin, Houston and San Antonio. We are home to the Texas Quilt Museum, Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, Faison Home, Fayette Heritage Museum and Archives, the Muster Oak, Monument Hill State Park and the Kreische Brewery. We are an award-winning Main Street City.

I invite you to visit our Visitors Center located in our recently renovated Historic Casino Hall. At the Center you will not only find information but also the history of La Grange and Fayette County, a unique gift shop and our art gallery of local artist’s work.

Visitors can enjoy a stay at one of our many bed and breakfasts or inns. Our restaurants offer a wide variety of foods. Enjoy kolaches and pigs-in-a-blanket, as well as some of the best Bar-B-Q in the state. For a unique experience, I invite you to our downtown square and the surrounding area. Visit our newly restored courthouse, eat at one of our fine restaurants and enjoy shopping at your leisure. We are home to many one-of-a-kind businesses that offer a variety of selections.

Sincerely, Janet Moerbe, La Grange Mayor

Actors from Fayette County Community Theatre during “Arsenic and Old Lace.”

Little Miss/Little Mister contest at the Fayette County Fair.

Best of Department winners in the quilting section at the Fayette County Fair.

“I have only mentioned a few of the amenities that can be found here in La Grange. Our greatest asset is our citizens; you will find them to be warm, friendly and helpful. All of us offer you a heartfelt welcome and hope you will come and enjoy your stay.” - Mayor Janet Moerbe 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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La Grange

PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS APRIL

Art Connections Second Saturday Soiree July 11

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant 403 North Jefferson Street

Art Connections Second Saturday Soiree April 11

Winchester Area Volunteer Fire Department Annual Fundraiser Fish Fry and Auction

Hank’s Express 154 South Jefferson Street

La Grange Farmers Market every Saturday

City of La Grange Easter Egg Hunt Easter Egg Hunt at The Jersey Barnyard April 11 Relay For Life April 25 Twisted X Brewing Launch Party for Kreische’s Bluff Beer April 25 Fine Art Assembly with Houston Grand Opera April 27-28

MAY

Summer Fun at the La Grange City Pool

AUGUST

La Grange Farmers Market every Saturday Fayette County Sheriff ’s Posse, Bull Riding & Rodeo Event August 7-8

La Marina 1502 TX-71

Summer Fun at the La Grange City Pool

Las Fuentes 685 South Jefferson Street

SEPTEMBER

La Grange Farmers Market every Saturday

A Taste of Texas May 8

Fayette County Fair September 3-6

Art Connections Second Saturday Soiree May 9

Chamber Golf Tournament Labor Day Weekend

Friends Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill Annual Picnic May 12

Texas Heroes Day September 12

Annual Slavnost ‘May Fest’ and Tribute to the Czech Immigrants to Texas May 17

JUNE

La Grange Farmers Market every Saturday Movie Nights on the Square June 5 & June 19 La Grange Fire Department Annual Benefit Golf Tournament Kreische’s Bluff Schützen Verein Festival June 6 Juneteenth Parade & Celebration June 12-13 Art Connections Second Saturday Soiree June 13 La Grange Art Stroll June 13 Bluff Schützen Verein Festival June 20 Summer Fun at the La Grange City Pool

JULY

La Grange Farmers Market every Saturday Movie Nights on the Square July 10

52

Jay Dee’z Sports Grill 2001 TX-71

Art Connections Second Saturday Soiree August 8

La Grange Farmers Market every Saturday MS-150 Bike-A-Thon May 2-3

Historic Walking Tour May 16

Holman Valley Steakhouse 10204 FM 155

Pumpkin Patch at The Jersey Barnyard

RESTAURANTS Back Porch BBQ & Grill 1602 North Jefferson Street Big State Coffee House & Roastery 107 West Colorado Street Bistro 108 108 South Main Street Bodega Wine Market 201 West Travis Street Suite 2622 Dairy Queen 311 North Jefferson Street Domino’s Pizza 2001 TX-71 Suite 10 Frisch Auf Valley Country Club 575 Country Club Dr Golden Chick 312 East Travis Street

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Latte Café 219 West Travis Street Leopard Donuts 240 E Travis St. Lukas Bakery 135 N. Main St. McDonald’s 2304 West Travis St. Pizza Hut 2230 Bus W Hwy 71 Prause’s Meat Market 253 West Travis St. Reba’s Deli & Pizzeria 539 East Colorado St. Riverside Cafe 1225 Carroll Lane Sealand Seafood & Steaks 2359 W Hwy 71 Sonic 717 East Travis Street Subway 1915 W. TX-71 (Inside Walmart) 109 South Jefferson Street

Taco Bell 2201 W Hwy 71

Lodge on Lake Siesta 5145 FM 153

LODGING

Taqueria Rio Verde 1330 North Jefferson

Lucky Penny Ranch 6822 Wied Road

Bed & Breakfast on Main 512 South Main Street

Taqueria Sergios 1432 TX-71 Texas One Stop BBQ & Bakery 1704 TX-71 Weikel’s Bakery 2247 W TX-71

Best Western La Grange Inn & Suites 600 E Hwy 71 Bypass Big Tin Flag Bed & Breakfast 714 East Radhost School Road

Brendan Manor Bed & Breakfast 345 East Travis Street

White Box II 922 East Travis Street Nearby Murphy’s Steakhouse 204 Thomas St, Winchester, TX 78945 Que Zeen Barbecue Cuisine 5606 US-77, Warda, TX 78960 West Point Crossroads 900 E State Loop 543, West Point, TX 78963

Oak Thicket Park on Lake Fayette 3819 W State Highway 159 River Valley Motor Inn 1575 West Travis Street

Blue Willow Farm B&B 1412 S US Hwy 77

Whataburger 1800 E TX-71

Lutherhill Ministries RV Site 3782 Lutherhill Road

La Grange

Ammannsville Cottages 9018 FM 1383

Colorado Landing RV 64 E Bluff View

S&H RV Park 3517 Post Oak Rd Silos at 159 4741 Highway 159 Suite 244 Historic Downtown Accommodations 244 North Washington Street

Cottonwood Inn Motel 1494 West Travis Street Executive Inn & Suites of La Grange 1708 TX-71 BUS Guest Quarters at Dos Lagos 3045 Valenta Road

Suncatcher RV Park 3033 S. US Highway 77 The Oak Motel 227 South Jefferson Street Nearby Corral RV Park West Point, TX 78963

Hampton Inn La Grange 1624 W TX-71

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

53

CHURCHES ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Asamblia of God Vida Abudante AG 124 S. Franklin St. Domingo 10 a.m.

Miercoles 7-9 p.m.

338-0235

Gospel Lighthouse Assembly of God 144 S. College Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 10:45 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.

(979) 968-5950

BAPTIST

Bible Baptist Church 153 E Crockett St. (979) 968-4981 Calvary Baptist Church 650 S. Ellinger Rd. Bible Study 10 a.m.

Morning Worship 11 a.m. & Evening Worship 6 p.m.

(979) 966-2670 Ebenezer Baptist 829 N. Jefferson Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Worship 11 a.m. & 6 p.m.

First Baptist 121 S. College Sunday School 9:15 a.m.

Worship 10:30 a.m.

Adult, Student & Children Groups Wed. 6 p.m.

VBS June 7-11 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

(979) 968-5651 www.fbclagrange.net Little Bethel Baptist 3242 Loehr Rd. Sunday School 10 a.m.

Worship 11 a.m.

(979) 247-4262 Peaceful Rest Baptist 808 E Fannin St. Worship 10:30 a.m.

St. Matthew Missionary Baptist 6341 St. Hwy 71 East Sunday School 10 a.m.

Worship 2nd & 4th Sun. 11:30 a.m. & Wed. 6 p.m.

Second Baptist 1010 N. Von Minden St. Life Groups 9:30 a.m. & 11: 30 a.m.

Worship 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Wednesday Students 6 p.m., 5:30 p.m. Kids/ Awana VBS May 31-June 5 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. www.sblg.org (979) 968-5953 Shiloh Missionary Baptist Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Worship 1st & 3rd Sun. 11:30 a.m.

United Baptist Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Worship 1st & 3rd Sun. 11:30 a.m.

CATHOLIC

Holy Rosary Catholic 936 FM 2436 Sat. Mass 5 p.m. & Sun. Mass 8 a.m.

VBS June 22-26 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. www.hostynplumcatholic.org (979) 247-4441 Sacred Heart Catholic, La Grange 539 E. Pearl Tues. & Wed. Mass 6:30 p.m., Thurs. School Mass 8:30 a.m., Fri. Mass 8:30 a.m.

Sat. English Mass 5 p.m., Sun. English Mass 9:00 a.m. & Sun. Spanish Mass 11:30 a.m.

VBS June 8-12 from 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. www.sacredheartlagrange.org (979) 968-3430 St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ammannsville 7745 Mensik Rd. Worship 8:00 a.m. (Even Months) & Worship at 9:30 a.m. (Odd Months) (979) 743-3117 St. Peter & Paul Catholic 126 Plum Church Rd. Plum, TX 78952 Sun. Mass: 10 a.m.

VBS June 22-26 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. www.hostynplumcatholic.org (979) 242-3600 St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Holman 9937 FM 155 Worship at 8:00 a.m. (Odd Months) & Worship at 9:30 a.m. (Even Months) (979) 743-3117

54 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Church Of Christ 646 E. Hwy 71 Business Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship 10 a.m. & Wed. 6:30 p.m.

VBS June 8-10 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. www.lagrangecoc.com (979) 968-5676 Miracle Temple Church of God In Christ 1008 E. Fannin St. Bible Study Wed. 7 p.m Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Worship 11:30 a.m.

EPISCOPAL

St. James Episcopal 156 N Monroe St. Sunday School 9:15 a.m.

Worship 8 & 10:30 a.m. www.stjameslagrange.org (979) 968-3910 Shared Lutheran Shared Lutheran Ministry of Fayette County St. John in Rutersville 5743 State Hwy. 159 East of La Grange Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship 10 a.m.

VBS July 26-31 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. (cost $50, extra $10 for breakfast during the week) www.sharedlutheranministry.org (979) 249-3155

LUTHERAN

Holy Cross Lutheran FM 1482 Warda Worship. 9 a.m.

Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

VBS June 8-10 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. www.holycrosswarda.com 979) 242-3333 Mt. Calvary Lutheran 800 N Franklin St,.

Sunday School & Bible Classes 10:15 a.m. & Wed. 10 a.m.

Worship 9 a.m.

L.C.M.S. www.mtcalvary-lcms.org (979) 968-3938 Saint Michael’s Lutheran 310 Frio Street Winchester, TX 78945 Worship 9 a.m.

Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

VBS June 7–11 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. www.stmichaelswinchester.org (979) 242-3444

St. Peter Lutheran Church 640 Prairie Valley Rd, West Point, TX 78963 Worship 8:45 a.m.

(361) 798-0155

METHODIST

Bethlehem AME 2200 Bethlehem Rd. 247-5010 First United Methodist 1215 N Von Minden St. Traditional Worship 9 a.m.

Sunday School 10:10 - 11 a.m.

New Life Worship 11:10 a.m. www.lgfumc.org (979) 968-8323 St. James United Methodist 710 N. Jackson Sunday School 10 a.m.

Worship 1st & 3rd Sun. 11 a.m.

St. Paul AME 729 E. Guadalupe Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship 10 a.m.

Winchester United Methodist 8933 FM 153 Winchester, TX 78945 Worship 1st & 3rd Sun 8:30 a.m.

PENTECOST

United Pentecostal 311 N. Horton St. Tuesday Ladies Prayer 9 a.m., Men’s Prayer 7 p.m.

Bible Study 7 p.m. Thursday Sunday School 10 a.m.

Church Services 10:45 a.m.

PRESBYTERIAN

First Presbyterian 205 S. Franklin St. Sunday School 9:15 a.m.

Worship 10:30 a.m. www.firstpresbyterianlagrange.com (979) 968-9424

3rd Sunday in June (Father’s Day) St. John the Baptist Church in Ammannsville 7850 Mensik Rd. (979) 743-3117

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

Seventh-day Adventist 1000 E Hwy 71 Saturday-Sabbath School 9:30 a.m.

Sat. Worship 11 a.m. www.lagrangetx.adventistchurch.org (979) 968-8519

Last Sunday in June Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Plum 126 Plum Church Road (979) 242-3600 www.hostynplumcatholic.org

Cowboy Church Colorado River Cowboy Church 5122 Hwy. 71 - between La Grange & Smithville Bible Study 8:45 a.m.

Worship 10 a.m.

VBS June 8-10 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. www.coloradorivercowboychurch.org

SEPTEMBER

3rd Sunday in September St. Wenceslaus Church in Holman 9538 Anton Salas Loop Holman, Texas 78945 (979) 743-3117

OTHERS

Sunday of Labor Day Weekend Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Warda 600 FM 1482 Giddings, TX 78942 (979) 242-3333 www.holycrosswarda.com

The Living Vine Christian Church 124 S. Water St. Sunday Morning 10 a.m.

Bible Study (adults and youth) Wed. 6:30 p.m.

(316) 259-7435

FESTIVALS

Primera Inglesia Bautista 1099 N. Von Minden St., Worship Wednesday 7 p.m., Fri.. 7 p.m., Sun. 10:30 a.m.

Annual Slavnost ‘May Fest’ and Tribute to the Czech Immigrants to Texas May 17 Recognition of descendants of Czech Immigrants of any year, 10:30 AM. Meal served at 11:30 AM. Music 11:30-4 PM by the Czech Harvesters. Classic Car Show, Village Open, Pastries, May Pole Dance and more!

The Remnant Church 2010 Von Minden Rd. Sunday Service 10 a.m.

Mon. Prayer 7 p.m.

Wed. Children & Youth Life Night 7 p.m. www.theremnantchurch.net (979) 968-5065

PICNICS MAY

1st Sunday in May Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Hostyn 936 FM 2436 La Grange, TX 78945 (979) 247-4441 www.hostynplumcatholic.org May 12, 2020 Friends Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill Annual Picnic 414 State Loop 92 (979) 968-5658 www.thc.texas.gov

JUNE

3rd Saturday in June Saint Michael’s Lutheran Church in Winchester 700 Frio St. Winchester, TX 78945 (979) 242-3444 www.stmichaelswinchester.org

La Grange

St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church 110 West Walnut Sunday School 10:30 a.m.

Worship Sat. 5 p.m. & Sun. 9 a.m.

VBS June 22-26, 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. ($20 per child) www.stpaullg.org (979) 968-5657

Bluff Schützen Verein Festival June 20 The Bluff Schuetzen Verein Festival will celebrate one of Fayette County’s original social clubs whose members shaped the community we know today. Learn about our community and state history with special tours, programs, and exhibits. Experience the traditions that the Kreisches and their community enjoyed more than a century ago—music, dancing, games, food, drinks, and more!

Fayette County Sheriff ’s Posse, Bull Riding & Rodeo Event August 7-8 Enjoy this Texas tradition at the Fayette County Sheriff ’s Posse Rodeo, a three-day event that includes bronc and bull riding, trick riding, and barrel racing. There’s also plenty of tasty food, live music, and entertainment that the whole family can enjoy.

Fayette County Fair September 3-6 Enjoy all the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the Fayette County Fair, an annual event that began in 1927. A livestock show, parade, barbecue cook-off, musical performances, and a carnival are just part of the fun at county fair in La Grange. This four-day event is held during Labor Day Weekend at the Fayette County Fairgrounds.

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

55

Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center

uziky stival and m er.

Heritage fe b ct every O o takes place

Texas Czech News paper Mueum opened in 2019.

Texas Czech HERITAGE & CULTURAL CENTER Vitรกme Vรกs!

56 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

On March 24, 1997, TCHCC was officially incorporated. Then Governor George Bush signed the resolution from the Texas House of Representatives and Senate in July of 1997. The resolution recognized all those associated and that the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center be built in La Grange. The resolution further recognized the contributions of Texans of Czech ethnicity to the history of Texas and Fayette County, which is known as the “Cradle of Czech Immigration,” is an appropriate site for the Center.

The Kalich House, donated by Jonathan and Peggy Kalich, was the first building to be placed on the new grounds and lovingly restored by volunteers. It served as the official TCHCC Visitor’s Center from November 2001 until September 2009, when the new library and museum building was completed. The new building was open for the first time and dedicated on October 10, 2009.

250 West Fairgrounds Road La Grange, Texas 888-785-4500 www.czechtexas.org

Genealogy Library Museums Banquet Hall Amphitheater 1890s Czech Village

La Grange

er 9.

Fayette County was selected as the site for the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) because of its significance in the history of Texas Czechs. Fayette County has the largest Czech population per capita and the most Czech communities of any county in the state. Many Czech-related historical sites and events, as well as prominent Texas Czechs, can be linked to Fayette County, which has the distinction of having had more immigrants from the Czech lands of the Austro-Hungarian Empire settle in the second half of the nineteenth century than any other county in Texas.

Vítáme Vás!

OPEN: Mon.-Fri. 10-4 Sat. 10-3 Festivals May & October

In June of 2007, the Cultural Center was recognized and honored with the Masaryk Gratias Agit. This prestigious award is presented in Prague, Czech Republic, by the Czech Foreign Ministry to individuals or organizations for their work in promoting Czech heritage and culture.

The TCHCC complex now consists of the Melnar Library, Nás Nový Domov Museum, Hanslik Banquet Hall, KJT Conference Room and the Kopecky Gift Shop, all located in the Main Center. The Czech Music Museum of Texas is located in the Kalich House, formally the original Visitor’s Center. A Czech Village stretches across the grounds behind the main center which includes the Janak Barn which houses the Texas Czech Agriculture Museum, three 1890s homes, a double log crib, a tavern and general store, and the Zapalac Saw Mill, a working original 1890s mill. The new Czech Newspaper Museum and the restored Velehrad SPJST Hall, Lodge #19, are now open and ready for tours. The Sanford Schmid Amphitheater, a 400-plus seat facility, was constructed in 2003 and overlooks the beautiful Colorado River valley and La Grange. The Amphitheater was enhanced by the addition of entrance steps, rock work and a dance floor in 2015.

Free Wifi Microwave & Mini Fridge Remodeled Rooms Non-Smoking Rooms Pets Allowed

The development of TCHCC is made possible through many generous monetary contributions, countless volunteer hours, and numerous in-kind donations from people living in all parts of Texas, US, and the world as well as grants from the Czech Foreign Ministry.

The Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center is for all generations to enjoy and we are excited to have been voted the Best Museum in Fayette County for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019!! Děkuji!

The Oak Motel is a wonderful 18 room Motel that we acquired in June of 2017 along with the 1907 House “Joseph Koss Home” we have remodeled the property and hope to make it your favorite place to stay in La Grange Texas. One block off the square next to Hanks Express and Subway.

Call us today! 979.968.3133

©2020 The Fayette County Record

Join TCHCC for two great festivals each year, The Slavnost ‘May Fest’ and Tribute to the Czech Immigrants to Texas which is held annually on the third Sunday of May (May 17, 2020) and the Heritage Fest & Muziky annually on the third weekend of October (October 16-17, 2020). Other do-not-miss events include the Valentine’s Dinner and Concert, Gala and other various programs that are announced throughout the year. Stay tuned to the website www.czechtexas.org for special event announcements.

227 S. Jefferson St. La Grange • www.theoakmotel.com 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

57

LA GRANGE AREA FUN

Family Outings SPLASHPAD

In 2019 the city of La Grange opened the RANDOLPH RECREATION CENTER PARK at 653 East Pearl St. Amenities include an ADA Compliant Play Scape – ages up to 10 and a SPLASHPAD with some limited rental availability. (call 979-968-5600 for details) Bathhouse with Restrooms and Showers. The Splashpad is open daily during warm weather from about daybreak to dusk.

FARMERS MARKET

The La Grange Farmers Markets held every Saturday (year-round) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.on the Fayette County Courthouse Square – 151 N Washington Street. The La Grange Farmers Market is a true representation of Central Texas’ artisan and food community.

This vibrant atmosphere highlights the area’s local agricultural community’s unique bounty. Often selections include: eggs, produce, baked goods, and handmade items.

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

THE FAYETTE PUBLIC LIBRARY FAYETTE HERITAGE MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

855 S. Jefferson St. La Grange, TX 78945 979-968-3765 979-968-6418 Library Hours of Operation Tuesday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday - Closed

Museum & Archives Hours of Operation Tuesday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Sunday and Monday - Closed

The Fayette Heritage Museum and Archives is located on the second floor of the Fayette Public Library. It features exhibits related to Fayette County’s history, an extensive archives of Fayette County photographs and documents, a collection of Texas history books, and a small gift shop.

When La Grange was designated as an American Bicentennial city in 1976, the city chose as its project the construction of a library, museum, and archives. The Museum/ Archives attains its purpose of preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting the history of Fayette County through the process of collecting, cataloging, and recording artifacts and papers that are donated.

The first major gifts to the museum and archives were donated in 1976, but the facility did not actually open until 1978. In 2004, the facility underwent a $1.2 million dollar expansion and renovation, doubling the museum exhibit and storage areas and creating an expansive research area.

Today the facility cares for well over 100,000 items. The museum offers changing exhibitions and the archives offers a wide variety of historical and genealogical materials.

La Grange

We offer a wide variety of dental services from routine restorations to complicated restorative cases.

We work with TMJ issues. We screen for oral cancers and sleep apnea. We illuminate teeth to help find cracked tooth structure.

Most insurances accepted!

WELCOME TO THE

La Grange Visitors Center in the

Historic Casino Hall Maps & Brochures Restrooms And yes, some FREE Stuff too!!

9am – 5pm SATURDAY 10am – 5pm SUNDAY 12noon – 5pm

MONDAY – FRIDAY

254 N. Jefferson St., La Grange, TX 78945 979-968-3017 www.visitlagrangetx.com

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

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FAYETTE COUNTY COMMUNITY THEATRE

A HIDDEN GEM WRITTEN BY KARA KOETHER

Susannah Mikulin’s background in theater goes all the way back to when she was three years old. “My grandmother was a theater teacher, and so I spent a lot of time with her growing up,” Mikulin said.

“Theater’s always been a part of my life. Either on stage or off stage, I’ve always been around theater.” She now has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Theater Education from Texas State University, which is the number 9-ranked theater school in the United States. After that, she taught Theater for five years at Chapa Middle School in Kyle, Texas. When her son was born, she became a stay-at-home mom who also had an event production company in Austin called 11:11 Events for three years. “It’s so much like theater, it was easy for me to transcend into that world,” Mikulin said. However, those three years, some family land became available in La Grange, where her husband is from, and they moved to La Grange in 2016. After being a stay at home mom for another six months, it was about all that Mukulin could take.

“I’m a very creative person by nature,” she said. “I need to create.

It’s just a personal trait. If I don’t, it feels like I’m going to explode.”

She also didn’t know anyone in La Grange, being brand new to the community, and wanted to make friends. Since theater has always been her second home and safe place, she looked for theater opportunities in the area, but was unable to find what she was looking for. So, by compiling her past two careers of event production and owning a business and her experience of teaching theater, she thought she could start a community theater.

“I met Ann Raborn randomly, and she said, ‘They just finished the Casino Hall, you should go check it out. They just finished renovating it. It has a stage,’ and the phrase, ‘it has a stage’ is all that I needed,” Mukulin laughed. So she met with Stacie Norris and after building a business plan, she gained a partnership with the City. The Casino Hall is an in-kind donation, and is utilized as a rehearsal and performance space.

Actors during “A rsenic and Old Lace.”

The next step was generating interest in the community. Mikulin put an ad for an interest meeting in The Fayette County Record, printed out 25 information packets, and hoped for the best. And then 75 people showed up. “It was a lot of artists in one room that really wanted to play, and were starting to generate this energy of what could be,” Mikulin said.

of our amazing board of directors and our amazing membership, we’ve been able to do it, and it’s been going strong,” she said. In 2017, FCCT put on “The Importance of Being Earnest,” “Mama Won’t Fly,” and “Steel Magnolias.” In 2018, they put on “Barefoot in the Park,” “The Secret Garden” (which was their first student production), “Dirty Works at the Crossroads,” and “Our Town.” This year, they’ve put on “Trifles” with a community showcase, “You Can’t Take It With You,” “Alice in Wonderland” (the second student production, involving 32 kids between the ages of six and 16), and will soon be putting on William Shakespeare’s “Midsummer Night’s Dream” on November 8, 9, and 10. It will be FCCT’s first Shakespearean production.

From that meeting, they created a board, and got their 501(c)(3) designation in January of 2017. They began working with ARTS for Rural Texas, Texas Women’s League, Bodega Wine Market, and the Stanzel Foundation. Susannah thus became the Founder of Fayette County Community Theatre, as well as Executive Director and President of the Board. Soon after, they held their first production in February of 2017. “And it’s been nonstop ever since then,” Mikulin smiled. FCCT is currently in their third season, and their eleventh production. FCCT is always looking for partnerships in any way; there’s lots of cross-promotional opportunities.

Mikulin is thrilled that her children are also being raised in the theater environment. “The thing about the theater is that it’s such a safe place to express yourself, there’s no wrong way to do anything.

It’s such an accepting place, and it’s been such a blessing to have my children being raised in that kind of environment because they’re allowing themselves to be whatever they want to do.” Mikulin’s daughter loves costume designs and drawing dresses, and her son loved watching the ‘big kids’ on stage before making his own debut in “Alice in Wonderland.” “You never know what seed you’re planting,” she added.

Theater was something that Mikulin believed that this community was missing, and it was a niche that she could help fill. “With the help

FCCT is also a fun place for families to come and do something together. There are three families in FCCT where every member

60 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

The wide range of people that participate in FCCT include seasoned actors, as well as newcomers. Kyle Hartmann has been involved in FCCT for about a year, and has performed in three plays: “Dirty Work at the Crossroads,” “Trifles,” and “You Can’t Take It With You.” Mikulin encouraged him to audition for “Dirty Work at the Crossroads,” his first play. The only experience with acting that he had before FCCT was two skits with German Club in high school.

“The people are what I enjoy most about FCCT,” Kyle said. “You become close friends with the cast and crew members. The people are what make FCCT great.” Acting in FCCT requires actors to be fully invested in order to put on a good production. It’s a major time commitment. “We practice about three days a week for about two months. However, it is an incredible experience and is worth all the work,” Kyle said.

In late 2016, Randy Tolman saw an ad in the Fayette County Record that announced the forming of a new theater group in La Grange.

They were holding auditions for anyone who might be interested in a theatre production. Tolman contacted Susannah Mikulin and asked her if they might be able to use a 68-year-old man with no experience.

“She was very gracious and invited me to audition for a part in their first production, ‘The Importance of Being Earnest,’ by Oscar Wilde.

I guess you could say the rest is history!” Tolman said. When he was in middle school, Tolman took a class in public speaking and it made a lasting impression on him. But, life took him in a different direction and he had no acting experience beyond that junior high class. FCCT ended up opening a whole new life for Tolman. “I’m having a blast!” he said. Since that first play, Tolman has acted in five other stage productions, as well as seven film productions. The thing that Tolman enjoys most about FCCT is the opportunity it provides him to bring a little happiness into the lives of their audiences. “People nowadays are so stressed, and if we can provide joy and relief, even if it’s just for a few hours, then I feel that I have been highly rewarded,” he said. He also enjoys the relationships that they build with each other as they rehearse, work, play, and study together. “We all come from different backgrounds and lifestyles, yet when it’s ‘show time,’ all of that is put aside for the sake of the play. That’s an awesome feeling!” The many, many, many hours of reading lines and memorizing parts, combined with the six long weeks of rehearsals, the emotions involved when he gets something right or wrong, and at times having to run the gauntlet gets Tolman feeling both extremely excited and even on the verge of giving up at times. “But there is always a fellow actor at FCCT who will say or do something to reassure me that I can do this. And I can!” Tolman said. “It takes a lot of work and the utmost dedication to put on one of our shows, but when the lights go dim and the theater full of strangers falls silent and I step out onto that stage all dressed up in another person’s clothes, it’s like I have become that character for the next to hours or so, and there’s not a better feeling in the world.”

Tolman has been in a lot of FCCT’s plays, and hopes to be in many more. He was in FCCT’s first ever play, “The Importance of Being

Earnest,” in February 2017. He has since also appeared in “Mama Won’t Fly” (May 2017), “Steel Magnolias” (November 2017), “Our Town” (November 2018), “Trifles” (February 2019), and “You Can’t Take It With You” (May 2019).

Melissa Weltner, Board Member and Program Director of FCCT, joined the Board around six months after the inception of the nonprofit. “That was a lot of happenstance. I missed the first production, but I heard that this was happening, and my daughter and I accidentally attended a Board meeting without realizing it wasn’t for the public,” Weltner laughed. Weltner was a Theater Major at Baylor University before transferring to Texas State University and starting a career in sales. Theater has always been a passion of hers, leading her to have over 25 years of experience. She’s done a little in San Antonio, a little in Austin, and even independent films; while she’s taken breaks and hiatuses in between, it has always called her back. With FCCT, she ended up first having a small part in “Mama Won’t Fly,” before her involvement, as well as FCCT in general, took off from there. She has also been very active in the student productions.

La Grange

of the family has been involved. “They’re creating memories that they’re going to talk about for generations,” Mikulin said. The theater isn’t something that’s restricted by age or skill, so there’s a spot for everyone. If someone isn’t interested in acting, they can participate in the lights booth or use their skills in arts and crafts to potentially become an amazing prop master. “There’s so many diverse personalities in Fayette County that it just works,” Mikulin said. “It’s a nice little snapshot of our community, because you’re looking at pastors who are hanging out with teachers and students and lawyers and city councilmen and retirees. The broad range of people who would never in any other sense ever interact coming together and creating a strong family, there’s nothing like it, and I’m so proud to be the founder of it,” Mikulin said.

From beginning to end, the student productions are created by the kids. “For ‘Alice in Wonderland,’ a La Grange High School student wrote the script, it’s a fully-student cast, a fully-student crew, our costume designer, our director, our technical designer–it’s just student, student, student, ranging from six years old to sophomores in college,” Mikulin said. “And they’re doing it with some supervision from adults, but at the end of the day, when those curtains go up, it’s all the kids. For adults, it’s hands off.” After trying a student production in the Spring of 2018, FCCT realized that it would be better off being done in the summer when there aren’t as many conflicting programs or school functions. “They really have to step up to the plate and show us who’s going to do the work, who’s going to come out of their shell enough to play a leading part or principle character, and those are great rewards, but we also have great moments for the others and the littles,” Weltner said. “But they’re all having a really great time, and that’s the important part.” Mikulin said, “The talent is unbelievable. And they’re young, too, so they’re gonna be here for a while. I’m excited to see where this goes.”

Coming up next is “Midsummer Night’s Dream,” by William Shakespeare. It will be directed by Doc Ayres, Founder of of Shakespeare at Winedale and world-renowned in the Shakespeare world, and Shyla Hungerford, who is a professor at Rice University.

“This play is probably one of his more popular shows because it is fantasy, you’ve got fairies, lovers, you’ve got the donkey head,” Mikulin said. “We’re excited to play with Shakespeare, see how the community reacts, and see if it’s something that we can continue. Yes, Shakespeare at Winedale is there and they do an amazing job in the summer, but it’s through UT and it’s for students. When you graduate high school, that doesn’t mean that you stop loving Shakespeare.”

She’s excited to actually be in the play, as well as have the opportunity to work with Doc. “For such a small town, we bring quality shows,” Weltner said. “This wasn’t thrown together haphazardly. Our sets are amazing, our actors are phenomenal. It’s amazing how much talent we have in this community.” To watch it all come together, audience members can see it in everyone’s face on the stage how much they love working with each other. “Whether it’s Schmeckenfest, or the Fair parade, we’re always doing something together as a family, and we’re always goofballs and have the best time together. Everyone is welcome, and it’s all-inclusive,” Weltner said. To anyone considering joining FCCT, Weltner simply says, “Trust us. Come see how much fun it is and come grow with us.”

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DESTINATION DESTINATION

La Grange VISIT. VISIT. SHOP. SHOP. PLAY. PLAY.

Adamcik State Farm Insurance Adamcik State 420 W Travis St.Farm #102, Insurance La Grange 420 W Travis #102, La Grange (979)St. 968-3600 (979) 9AM 968-3600 Mon-Fri: - 5:30PM Mon-Fri: 9AM - 5:30PM www.lagrangetxinsurance.com www.lagrangetxinsurance.com

ART CONNECTIONS GALLERY ART123 CONNECTIONS GALLERY N Main St, La Grange 123 N(979) Main206-2222 St, La Grange Tues(979) - Sat: 206-2222 10AM-5:30PM Tues - Sat: 10AM-5:30PM www.artconnectionsgallery.com www.artconnectionsgallery.com

BIG STATE COFFEE HOUSE & ROASTERY BIG STATE HOUSE & ROASTERY 107 WCOFFEE Colorado St, La Grange 107 W Colorado St, La Grange (979) 968-3939 (979) 968-3939 Mon - Sat: 7 AM-5PM Mon - Sat: 7 AM-5PM www.facebook.com/GreatCoffeeInLaGrangeTX www.facebook.com/GreatCoffeeInLaGrangeTX

COTTON GIN COTTON 339 W Travis LaGIN Grange 339 (979) W Travis La Grange 206-2220 (979) 206-2220 Tues - Sat: 10AM-5PM Tues - Sat: 10AM-5PM www.lagrangecottongin.com www.lagrangecottongin.com

JULIE B JULIE St, B La Grange 134 N Washington 134 N Washington St, La Grange (979) 639-5034 Mon(979) - Fri: 639-5034 10AM-5:30PM MonSat: - Fri: 10AM-5:30PM 9:30AM-5PM Sat: Sun:9:30AM-5PM 12PM - 4PM Sun: 12PM - 4PM www.facebook.com/pg/Julie-B www.facebook.com/pg/Julie-B

LATTÉ CAFÉ LATTÉSt, CAFÉ 219 W Travis La Grange 219 W(979) Travis968-9545 St, La Grange (979) 968-9545 Mon - Fri: 7 AM-6PM Mon Fri: 7 AM-6PM Sat: 7:30AM-3:30PM Sat: 7:30AM-3:30PM www.cafelatte.com www.cafelatte.com

LE PETITE LE PETITE 226 W Colorado St, La Grange 226 W Colorado St, La Grange (979) 968-4000 (979) 968-4000 Sun: 12:30PM-4:30PM Sun: Mon12:30PM-4:30PM - Fri: 10AM-6PM Mon - Fri: 10AM-6PM Sat: 10AM-5PM Sat: 10AM-5PM www.lepetitegourmetshoppe.com www.lepetitegourmetshoppe.com

THE MUSTARD SEED MUSTARD 142 NTHE Washington St, SEED La Grange 142 N Washington St, La Grange (512) 922-4239 922-4239 Mon -(512) Fri: 9:30AM-5:30PM Mon Sat: - Fri:9:30AM-5PM 9:30AM-5:30PM Sat: 9:30AM-5PM Gifts • Jewelry • Clothing Gifts • Jewelry • Clothing

SCHMIDTS SCHMIDTS 118 N Washington St, La Grange 118 N Washington St, La Grange (979) 968-5149 (979) 968-5149 Mon - Fri: 9 AM-5:30PM MonSat: - Fri:10AM-5PM 9 AM-5:30PM Sat: 10AM-5PM www.richardschmidtjewelry.com www.richardschmidtjewelry.com

WE STITCH WESuite STITCH 420 W Travis, 103, La Grange 420 W Travis, Suite 103, La Grange 979-206-3050 Mon-979-206-3050 Fri : 9AM- 5:30PM Mon- Fri : 9AM- 5:30PM facebook.com/WeStitchBW facebook.com/WeStitchBW

YM APPAREL APPAREL 207 W YM Travis St, La Grange 207 W Travis St, La Grange yakmanapparel@gmail.com yakmanapparel@gmail.com Mon - Fri: 9:00AM -5:30PM Mon - Sat: Fri: 9:00AM -5:30PM 10am-3pm Sat: 10am-3pm www.ymappareltx.com www.ymappareltx.com

Want to advertise in the La Grange destination page? Contact Becky Weise at (979) 968-3155 Want to advertise in the La Grange destination page? Contact Becky Weise at (979) 968-3155

Chef Mike Morphew, originally from England, is our in-house chef.

He conducts cooking classes and demonstra�ons sharing recipes and skills from his travels all over the world.

In a store of over 6,000 square feet, we have a large variety of gourmet cookware and prep gadgets from companies all over the world.

Samples and demonstra�ons daily, from over 30,000 different items.

La Grange

Store Hours: Monday—Friday…10am-6pm Saturday…..………..10am-5pm Sunday……..12:30pm-4:30pm

Located at: 226 West Colorado Street La Grange, Texas 78945

Chef Dorothy Huang is our Asian Cuisine expert. She provides Cooking classes and demonstra�ons reflec�ng food from all across the orient.

Upcoming Events: Come and see us at Taste of Texas Show at Czech Heritage Center ……..….…………………………………May 8th La Grange Art Stroll……………..……………………………………………..………………………………….………………..June 13th Store Annual Birthday Bash Weekend…...…………………………………………...………………..August 14th and 15th For More Informa�on and Upcoming Events please visit our website: lepe�tegourmetshoppe.com

White Box II

HOME OF OUR ORIGINAL GOLD’N CRISP FRIED CHICKEN & 100% BEEF BURGERS!

Call ahead to have it hot and ready for pick-up or have it delivered with a $5 delivery fee!

Monday 10:30AM – 8:00PM • Tuesday-Thursday 10:30AM – 7:00PM Friday 10:30AM – 8:00PM • Saturday 10:30AM – 6:00PM • Sunday 11:00AM – 2:00PM

922 E. Travis St. La Grange, Tx

©2020 The Fayette County Record

www.whitebox2.com

979.639.0444

KREISCHE BREWERY & MONUMENT HILL ©2020 The Fayette County Record

APPETITE!

©2020 The Fayette County Record

Satisfy Your

State Historic Sites

HISTORIC SITES / PICNIC AREA / HIKING TRAILS / SCENIC VIEWS SELF-GUIDED HISTORIC HOUSE TOURS / WILDLIFE VIEWING / GEOCACHING

High on the bluff overlooking La Grange Our projects are investments for your future.

FULLY INSURED & BONDED

COMMERCIAL OR RESIDENTIAL... YOU DESERVE THE BEST! Steel Buildings, Gutters, Siding, Windows & Painting

7000 South US Highway 77, La Grange, TX

979-247-4587 www.vincentsroofing.com

April 25, 2020

Twisted X Brewing Launch Party for Kreische’s Bluff Beer

June 20, 2020 Bluff Schützen Verein Festival

414 STATE LOOP 92 • LA GRANGE TX

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fayetteville Biking in downtown Fayetteville.

Joan and Jerry He rring at Fayettevil le’s Red and White Ga llery.

Fayetteville is a charming town, roughly halfway between Austin and Houston. Come enjoy the arts of Fayetteville. The Fayetteville Picking Park hosts live acoustic bluegrass jams almost monthly, along with other musical and arts events regularly. There are a plethora of cottages and cabins to stay in for a fun getaway. The population was 258 at the 2010 census.

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Lions Fayetteville

Classic Car

Show

TO FAYETTEVILLE

MAYOR LETTER

WELCOME Whether your looking for a day trip, a weekend get a way or a long vacation Fayetteville offers something for everyone. Nestled between Austin, San Antonio and Houston you will find Fayetteville much as it has been for over a hundred years. Founded in 1882 and settled by Czechs and Germans the town has an historic district designation for the square which features a two story precinct court house. Large pecan trees line the narrow residential streets which provide walking, the best way to observe the houses of the past century. There is a large columned home said to have been delivered by train to be assembled here shipped from Sears and Roebuck. If you’re looking for good food, B&Bs and a slower pace of life come see us.”

Sincerely, Carl Marino, Fayetteville Mayor

Belt sander races on the courthouse square in Fayetteville during the Classic Car Show

Fayetteville’s Arts for Rural Texas summer arts programs

Children performing traditional dances at Lickskillet.

Nestled between Austin, San Antonio and Houston you will find Fayetteville much as it has been for over a hundred years.

- Mayor Carl Marino

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Grea

Fayetteville

PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS APRIL

Fayetteville Picking Park on the Square April 11 ARTS for Rural Texas Larry Schueckler Opening – Imagine Love at Ross Gallery April 11 Lions Club Classic Car Show April 18 Fayetteville 5K Walk-N-Roll April 18 Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Bingo April 18 Firemen’s Feast April 26 Fine Art Assembly with Houston Grand Opera April 27-28 Sing for Your Supper at The Wine Bar at the Grand Fayette Hotel April 28

MAY

Orsak’s Cafe 121 West Fayette St.

Vitkova’s Veranda 575 East Franklin St.

The Wine Bar at the Grand Fayette Hotel 201 West Fayette St.

Westview Ranch and Retreat 1060 Brushy Rd.

Nearby Hruska’s Store & Bakery 109 W TX-71 Ellinger, TX 78938

Nearby Cabins at Blackbird Farm 1488 FM 2503, Ellinger, TX 78938

Peters BBQ 301 W TX-71 Ellinger, TX 78938

CHURCHES

LODGING Blackbird Farm 1537 Kramr Rd. Blue Bunk House 821 FM 954 Caesura Cottage 6950 Skull Creek Rd.

ARTS for Rural Texas-ArtWalk on the Square May 2-3 Fayetteville Picking Park on the Square May 9 Fayetteville Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser & Dance Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Tomato Festival May 29-31

Cottages on The Square 110 W. Main

JUNE

Gray Rooster Guest House 422 Shumacher Rd.

Good Old Summertime Classic June 6 ARTS for Rural Texas Summer Art Camp June 8-July 31

Fayette County Hills RV & Boat Storage 800 North Rusk Grand Fayette Hotel 201 West Fayette St. Granny’s Retreat 3506 Skalitsky Rd.

Joy’s Country Cottage 2836 Ehlinger-Becker Rd.

JULY

Market Street Inn 101 E. Market St.

AUGUST

Orsak’s B&B 126 North Washington St.

City-Wide Garage Sale July 11 ARTS for Rural Texas Emerging Artist Competition August 15

SEPTEMBER

ARTS for Rural Texas Adad Martin Opening at Ross Gallery September 12 Art After School Fall Session Begins September 14

RESTAURANTS Joe’s Place 120 North Live Oak St.

Red & White Inn 102 West Main St. Rolling 7 Guest Cottage 1377 East Highway 159 Saddle Creek Cabins 9549 FM 389 Swedish Cottage 420 N. Rusk St. The Bootstrap at Round Top 5100 Roznov Road The Cottage 8235 FM 2981

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CATHOLIC

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 205 E Bell St. Sat. Mass 6 p.m.

Sun. Mass 10 a.m. & Wed. 7 p.m VBS July 20-24 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. www.stjohnfayetteville.com (979) 966-2861 St. Mary’s Catholic Near Ellinger Sun. Mass: 8 a.m.

Thurs. 6 p.m., Wed. & Fri. 7 a.m. www.stmaryellinger.com (979) 378-2277

CHURCH OF GOD

LUTHERAN

St. Paul Lutheran Shelby Sunday School 10 a.m.

Worship 8 a.m. www.stpaulshelby.org (979) 836-8972

OTHERS

Fayetteville Brethren 1022 Kramr Rd. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Worship 10:30 a.m. www.fayettevillebrethrenchurch.org (979) 378-2239 Mars Hill Tabernacle Hwy. 159 9 a.m. Saturday with Bible Study 1st & 3rd Wednesday of month

PICNICS AUGUST

4th Sunday in August St. Mary Church 815 St. Mary’s Church Rd. Ellinger, Texas 78938 (979) 378-2277

SEPTEMBER

Cedar Of Lebanon Church Of God In Christ 1946 TX-159 Bible Study Wed. 7:30 p.m.

YPWW - Fri. 7:30 p.m.

Worship 11:30 a.m.

Sunday before Labor Day St. John the Baptist Church 207 E. Bell St. (979) 378-2277

SHARED LUTHERAN

Ellinger Tomato Festival Friday-Sunday May 29-31 Come out and enjoy a BBQ CookOff Friday & Saturday, along with a Dollar Dance and a Live Auction. Then on Sunday don’t miss the Grand Parade, Chamber Fried Chicken & Sauage Lunch, a Tomato Growing Contest and so much more!

Shared Lutheran Ministry of Fayette County St. John in Ellinger 110 W. Fayette St. Ellinger, TX 78938 Worship 8 a.m. www.sharedlutheranministry.org (979) 249-3155 St. Paul in Fayetteville 201 N. Rusk St. Worship 10:30 a.m. www.sharedlutheranministry.org (979) 249-3155

FESTIVALS

Lickskillet Oct 17- Oct 18 The festival takes place right on the Historic Square. The traditional celebration will include beer, wine, BBQ dinners, cotton candy, hamburgers. There is also Kid’s Zone!

GreaterFayettevilleCC_FCR Guide_Spring 2020.qxp_Layout 1 3/3/20 8:22 AM Page 1

ART • ANTIQUES • DINING • WINE BAR • FULL BAR

Fayette County’s quiet get-away featuring great lodging, food and drink.

And very cyclist friendly. Come and take a break in Fayetteville, and enjoy Texas the way it used to be.

HISTORIC INNS, B&Bs & HOTEL

StayInFayetteville.com www.GreaterFayettevilleChamber.org

THE COMMUNTIY OF

Ellinger

Where History and Hospitality Meet Joseph Ehlinger, born in France, served in Napoleons army before its defeat. He received a grant of land and built a house in Fayette County. After returning from Europe with his family, Mr. Ehlinger drowned near Houston. His son, Charles Ehlinger became a surveyor and laid the original town plat, which was then known as Live Oak Hill, just north of the present day Ellinger. The son was the first postmaster and became a merchant, farmer and Board member on the First State Bank of Ellinger.

Frying chicken for the annual Polka Fest at the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Hall.

The Southern Pacific Railroad came to the area in 1873 and missed Live Oak Hill by two miles. In 1880, land was donated for its present location. The name changed from Ehlinger to Ellinger when the railroad came through. The town of Ellinger, is located on Hwy. 71, and currently has a population of about 300.

In 1954 citizens joined together to acquire the building and land from the school to have a community hall. The school had just disbanded to join La Grange. This hall, which is still available for rent for different functions, can be found just a few blocks from Highway 71. Through many economic cycles the area produced cotton, tomatoes and other agricultural items.

Events like the annual Ellinger Tomato Festival is held the last weekend in May, features a large parade, Chamber fried chicken, auction, events for the children, and a tomato growing contest. This festival has been going on for over 80 years.

The Chamber also hosts a Polka Fest, homemade chicken noodle soup lunch, and other events that are family orientated.

The economy has shifted to ranching and grain. Today there are just a few business downtown with convenience stores on Highway 71.

The unincorporated rural community is about 12 miles east of La Grange.

If you are traveling on Hwy 71, stop in Ellinger, Texas, “Where history and hospitality meet�.

68 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

There is a queens contest every ye ar at the Ellinger Tom ato Festival.

Family-owned and -operated since 1912, Hruska’s continues to provide cleanliness, community and home-cooking to thousands of visitors each year. No matter how far folks have traveled, Hruska’s makes the trip worthwhile!

www.hruskas-bakery.com 109 W State Hwy 71 | Ellinger, TX 78938 | (979)

378-2333

ARTS

GROWING A COMMUNITY 70 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Fayetteville

Arts for Rural Texas is a delightful discovery tucked into the charming village of Fayetteville. The home campus sits on the square facing the historic town hall. Quiet streets, oak trees, and old style community sidewalks grace the square, making for an easy and restful stroll on pleasant, sun-filled days. The community’s grace and style is enhanced with its charming, historic homes. Rolling hills and country lanes surround the town, perfect for bike rides and scenic explorations.

ARTS, an organization formed 17 years ago, is a rising star in this small community through its ongoing contributions. The organization’s programs and events significantly enrich the economic, cultural and educational development in Fayette County and beyond. ARTS maintains a 600 square foot exhibit space, The Ross Gallery, and a slightly smaller gallery space that features a variety of works by children. Also, on the campus, is a 2500 square foot educational annex. Here classes and workshops are held and a public art resource library is available for all to use.

In the main building, The Ross Gallery features exhibitions by local, regional and nationally recognized artists of diverse media.

This year, the original graphics of famed painter and printmaker, Amado Peña, have been featured. Nationally recognized sculptor, Larry Schueckler’s bronze works along with his charcoal sketches filled the gallery. Schueckler presented a work in progress as he constructed a large sculpture featuring 30 portraits in 30 days.

The Schmid ARTS Annex houses the library and three classrooms where the free Art After School classes are offered to school age children in Fayetteville. Music, the literary arts, and the visual and performing arts are all provided to the youth. In conjunction with the Fayetteville campus, ARTS offers these programs in 6 other surrounding communities.

Summer Art Camp is an extension of the youth programs. In June and July, weekly educational programs are offered to students, ages 6 through teens. Students from around the region and some from out of state participate in such camps as: photography, painting, music, sculpting, culinary experiences, theater, weaving and more.

Adult programs include fine art workshops, craft workshops, the Spectrum Lecture Series, and Fine Art Performances and Concerts. Fayetteville is a unique destination for art retreats and experiences offered by Art for Rural Texas. The community exudes the quiet beauty of a small town which offers an environment perfect for learning and exploration. Diverse fields of study are provided in media such as watercolor, oil and cold wax, acrylics, oil, mixed media, monoprinting, drawing, hat making, quilting, weaving, assemblage, ukulele, and much, much more.

Arts for Rural Texas is a destination filled with fun and enlightenment. You will, delight in the charm of the town of Fayetteville while you embark on the experience of a lifetime.

Study at ARTS with world class instructors as you laugh and learn with the local residents in this charming town. www.artsforruraltexas.org (979) 378-2113

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CARMINE Antiques

Carmine Depot

The city of Carmine is known for the Texas Basketball Museum, operated by Bob Springer. The museum showcases Texas High School Basketball state titles and trophies, a Hall of Fame room, and exhibits of players who became pros. Enjoy shopping in the antiques shops in town or visit the City Park, created by donations of land to the city by the Albers and Muehlbrad families.

The park was dedicated in 1982. The population was 250 at the 2010 census.

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

rk Carmine Pa

TO CARMINE

MAYOR LETTER

WELCOME Carmine is located in the far northeastern corner of Fayette County next to US Hwy 290, approximately half-way between Houston and Austin. Carmine, with a population of 250 folks, is a small town with a big heart. The city has a beautiful city park where one can relax and experience our small-town atmosphere. Carmine offers fine dining or refreshments for the busy traveler passing through. There are also cozy bed and breakfasts for those who wish to spend time shopping the various antique stores, visiting museums, or exploring the many historical sites in the general area, which makes for a perfect weekend getaway.

Sincerly, Wade Eilers, Mayor

Carmine’s Texas basketball Museum

Regional champion RTC Cubette volleyball team.

Carmine’s iconic JW’s steakhouse

“For whatever occasion that brings you to Fayette County, on behalf of Carmine’s local citizens and businesses, we extend to you a big warm Texas welcome.” - Mayor Wade Eilers

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Carmine

PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY RESTAURANTS JW’s Steakhouse 122 South Hauptstrasse Street The Village Market 115 West Sylvan Street Nearby Stuermer Store 100 East Highway 290 at FM 129 Ledbetter, TX 78946

STAY Bel Sole 215 North Hauptstrasse Street Busted Oak Cellars 6195 Round Top Road Carmine Coop 1318 Spur 458 Cottages on Cedar Creek 1040 Carmine Cemetery Road Dixieland RV Park Campground 249 Dixieland RV Park Lane Falcon Hill 7615 Kieke Road Pecan Grove Inn 233 Augsburg Street Prairie Wind Farm 4507 Havemann Road Reindeer Ranch at Round Top 1000 Deer Haven Road River Oaks Farms at Round Top 2156 Highway 237 Rocking Horse Retreat 2655 Homeyer Mountain Road

74

Solid Rock Ranch 1324 Schoenberg Road The Bunkhouse 12330 Young Circle The Front Porch 12135 Young Circle The Vintage Hideaway 3820 Schoenst Road Nearby Double Tree Ranch 5849 West FM 129 Ledbetter, TX 78946 Ideker’s Country House 340 Greens Creek Road Ledbetter, TX 78946 Little Oaks Lodging 7908 Goehring Road Ledbetter, TX 78946 Night Bird Ranch 1810 FM 1291, Ledbetter, TX 78946 Stable House at Ledbetter 1365 FM 180 Ledbetter, TX 78946

CHURCHES LUTHERAN

Martin Luther Lutheran 211 Luther Ln. Saturday Worship 6 p.m.

Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship 10 a.m.

VBS June 14-18 5:30 p.m.-7:45 pm www.mllccarmine.com (979) 278-3388

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Waldeck Lutheran Waldeck Worship 8a.m.

Sunday School 9:15a.m.

(979) 249-3802

EVENTS Fall Antiques Show September 17 - October 4

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127 S. Washington St. La Grange, Texas 78945

979.968.3155 YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER, TWICE EVERY WEEK

WWW.FAYETTECOUNTYRECORD.COM

Antiquing options abound in and around Carmine.

A TRULY UNIQUE ANTIQUE TOWN

Carmine

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2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Carmine

Carmine-“the little city with a big heart” is right in the middle of it all. Located half way between Austin and Houston on Highway 290, it is the perfect mid-way stop for all travelers.

Carmine is the home of the Texas Basketball Museum, Carmine Train Depot and Museum, many antiques shops and art galleries, and Carmine State Bank, famous for once being robbed by members of the Barrow Gang-Bonnie and Clyde.

With a beautiful shaded park, picnic area, great restaurants and clean gas stations, Carmine is the go-to stop on your way down Highway 290. The city also boasts a great RV Park and cozy bed & breakfasts for those who want to stay awhile and enjoy the area.

Having the country’s best antique shows scattered across surrounding areas and right in town both in the fall and spring, Carmine touts itself as the “Gateway to the Antiques Festival.”

But Carmine’s antiques aren’t just on the roadsides a few times each year. Many of the historic buildings house stores that are open year around. With a wonderful blend that ranges from fine furniture to “repurposed” junk, there is something for everyone.

Founded in 1883, Carmine (Car-MEEN) is located in the heart of Central Texas, With thousands of cars passing right through town on Highway 290 everyday, it makes the city the northern entrance to all of the other communities if Fayette County.

No Pond, No Lake Too Big or Too Small Services Dozer • Scraper • Excavator Services land clearing And Reshaping lake/pond building Restoration engineered building pads shredding • demolition • fully insured Serving Fayette County Since 1995

The city was incorporated in 1973 with an active city government, an excellent consolidated school system (Round Top-Carmine I.S.D.) with the high school campus in Carmine and the elementary campus located in Round Top. Whether it is for a day or a weekend of shopping and exploring the area, the small town charm and idyllic scenery of Carmine offers the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Not only is Carmine a great place to visit, it is also a great place to live; whether you are starting a family, emptying your nest, or looking for a peaceful place to retire. The quiet atmosphere, small population and friendly neighbors make it the perfect place to call home.

There are also many business opportunities in Carmine that offer low taxes, local incentives and a very supportive community for established and new business owners.

So, next time you find yourself driving down 290 or through Fayette County, stop by and stay awhile. We’d love to have you experience all that our little city has to offer!

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American GUINEA HOGS

A Taste of America’s Heritage in Carmine 78

2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

Carmine

Jesse and Wendy McDaniel are not your run of the mill hog farmers.

Both of them used to work in the city of Houston for a major airline. After several years in that industry, they both got tired of the urban rat race and decided it was time for a change. They made the decision to move to the country and start a farm. Wendy is a native of Fayette County, so for her, it was coming back home, while her husband, Jesse was a native of Houston. He had a bit more of an adjustment moving here.

Once they bought some land, they decided to start raising Guinea Hogs and while there are other critters on their farm in Carmine, Guinea Hogs are their main focus.

Why the Guinea Hog?

Well, the American Guinea Hog is the ideal, sustainable, heritage farm pig, known for its moderate size, excellent foraging abilities, friendly temperament, excellently flavored meat, and indispensable lard. While the American Guinea Hog is smaller than industrial hog breeds, it is a good-sized farm pig, providing a nice, well-marbled carcass. This is not your normal grain-fed hog, it is truly a grass-fed animal.

What exactly is a Guinea Hog?

The Guinea Hog is a small black breed of swine that is unique to the Americas. It was traditionally kept as a homestead pig in the Southeast, and is also called the Gulf Pig, the Pinewoods Guinea, the Guinea Forest Hog and the Yard Pig. It is possible that other strains of Guinea Hogs existed at one time and were absorbed into other breeds or became extinct. Though the Guinea Hog was well known and widely used for a long period of time, the breed had almost disappeared and is now recovering from near extinction.

The Guinea Hog is a lard type, landrace hog, which shows much variability from place to place. Most commonly, they are described as small in size and black in color, with upright ears, hairy coat and a curly tail. Guineas are found in “long nose” and “short nose” varieties. Their weight varies from 100 to 300 pounds

©2020 The Fayette County Record

The Guinea Hog is unusual among American swine breeds in that it has never been bred for commercial production not put into a show ring. Historic selection in the breed was based on the traits important to survival of the Guinea Hog breed. As a result, the breed is known as healthy and thrifty, resistant to disease, able to rustle up much of its own food and retain a good sense of survival.

One of the most important characteristics the breed has to offer it its mothering abilities.

JW McDaniel Farm CARMINE, TEXAS * FAMILY FARM

FARMING PRACTICES • NATURALLY GROWN HERITAGE BREED • GRASS FED/PASTURED

When Jesse and Wendy Moved back to Fayette County, they joined the American Guinea Hog Association whose focus is the preservation of America’s original and favorite homestead hog – the American Guinea Hog. They sell their hogs to other farmers who want to have a sustainable, meat source to raise on their farms as well as individuals who just want to have good farm-raised meat for their families.

Due to the efforts of farmers like Jesse and Wendy McDaniel, the Guinea Hog is thriving in Fayette County and other counties throughout the United States.

AMERICAN GUINEA HOGS JESSE & WENDY MCDANIEL

WENDY_MCDANIEL@YAHOO.COM

713.408.1227

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Advertiser Index

GOURDY’S PUMPKIN RUN

Second Saturday in November

80 2020 SPRING/SUMMER VISITORS GUIDE

A Taste of Texas..................................................................17 Andrea Schutter-Riebeling........................................83 ARTS for Rural Texas.........................................................2 BM Winery...............................................................................11 Brawley Dental Clinic, PLLC……............................….32 Bluff Top Gardens..............................................................15 Budget Blinds........................................................................13 Busted Oak Cellars............................................................11 Capital Farm Credit.......................................................53 Carmine EDC......................................................................74 Columbus Chamber of Commerce.......................82 Copper Shade Tree Gallery..........................................31 Corner Stone Dental……............................................…....3 Destination Flatonia.......................................................47 Destination La Grange..................................................62 Destination Rummel Square........................................21 Destination Schulenburg..............................................37 Diggs Real Estate Inc…................................…..........…...17 E.A. Arnim Archives & Museum……....................……47 Fayette County Community Theatre..........................4 The Fayette County Record...............................47 & 75 Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce......................67 Flatonia Chamber of Commerce.......................….49 Hatfield Dental..................................................................59 Heritage Texas Country Properties.......................16 Hruska’s…….................................................................……..69 The Jersey Barnyard......................................................80 Junk Gypsy….......................................................................25 JW McDaniel Farm...........................................................79 KatySweet Confectioners............................................84 Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill.........................63 KJK Dozer……….....................................................................77 La Grange Family Eye Care..........................................4 La Grange Visitors Center...........................................59 Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe..........................................63 Maxwell Art Gallery............................................................3 Mimi Bella..............................................................................27 NewWave Communications.........................................17 The Oak Motel……..........................................................…57 The Polished Home........................................................32 Pop A Top..............................................................................26 Potter Country Store.........................................................37 Rohan Meadery at Blissful Folly Farm......................10 Rosemary’s Vineyard and Winery……................….10 Round Top Family Library………...................................32 Round Top Festival Institute…...................................29 Round Top Real Estate..................................................33 Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce..............…..43 Schulenburg Regency Central Office...................41 Stanzel Aircraft Museum............................................42 Tejas Healthcare...............................................................81 Tex Propane……..................................................................43 Texas Czech Heritage Center......................................57 Texas Heroes Museum…………..........................................81 Texas Independence Wine Trail....................................11 Texas Irrigation..................................................................43 Vincent’s Roofing..............................................................63 Wander Inn...........................................................................25 Weikel’s Bakery……........................................................….79 Weise Farms…..............................................................…...77 WhiteboxII..........................................................63

See how the people of Texas protected and defended us throughout the world.

FREE ADMISSION TexasHeroesMuseum@gmail.com • ph. (361) 210-7318 https://www.facebook.com/TexasHeroesMuseum

In partnership with the City of La Grange Main Street & Visitors Bureau http://visitlagrangetx.com

I SELL A Lifestyle NOT JUST REAL ESTATE ANDREA SCHUTTER-RIEBELING

©2020 The Fayette County Record

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