2020 FALL/WINTER
WELCOME TO
FAYETTE COUNTY o t s e c a l P
eat, stay, worship & play
Richard Schmidt Jewelry Design LOCAL ARTISANS RICHARD AND JANET SCHMIDT SHARE THEIR HOMEGROWN SUCCESS STORY
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF
LA GRANGE • ROUND TOP • CARMINE • FLATONIA • SCHULENBURG • FAYETTEVILLE
Art After School Programs Art After School Programs Arts for Rural Texas provides Arts forinRural Texas provides children rural communities with children in rural communities with Art After School programs, Art After School programs, including hands-on experiences in includingsculpting, hands-on music, experiences in painting, theatre, painting, sculpting, music, theatre, the culinary arts, and more. Our the culinary arts, and Our programs coincide withmore. the school programs coincideboth withpublic the school and include and year and include both public and year private schools, as well as several private schools, as wellthroughout as several community locations community locations throughout Fayette County. Fayette County. For more information, or to get For more information, get your child enrolled in oneoroftothese your child enrolled in one of these amazing programs, call us direct amazing or visit usprograms, online. call us direct or visit us online.
ARTS supports your community - Support ARTS! ARTS supports your community - Support ARTS! 979-378-2113 • www.artsforruraltexas.org 979-378-2113 • www.artsforruraltexas.org Adult Workshops and Adult Workshops and Spectrum Lecture Series Spectrum Lecture Series Arts For Rural Texas not only cultivates Arts For Rural Texas only cultivates art expression andnotenthusiasm in art expression and enthusiasm in children, it also provides adults with children, it also with opportunities to provides explore adults and create opportunities to explore and create through workshops and lecture series. through workshops and lecture series. Art workshops are multi-day classes Art workshops arelocal multi-day classes instructed by both and renowned instructed by both local and renowned artists that provide hands-on artistic artists that hands-on artistic training in a provide variety of mediums. The training in a variety of mediums. The Spectrum Lectures are single session Spectrum Lectures are single session lectures presented by recognized experts lectures presented by recognized experts from across the country. from across the country. Visit us online to learn of upcoming Visit us online to learnand of sign upcoming workshops and lectures, up to workshops and lectures, and sign up to take part today! take part today! ©2020. Arts for Rural Texas. All rights reserved. ©2020. Arts for Rural Texas. All rights reserved.
2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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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
Fayette County at a Glance..............................................6 Letter From Judge Weber..................................................7 Completely Schmidtten.....................................................8 Fayette County Real Estate.............................................16 Texas Independence Wine Trail....................................20 Trail of Lights.......................................................................24
LA GRANGE
Welcome to La Grange....................................................26 Letter From Mayor Janet Moerbe.................................27 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play..............................28 Texas Quilt Museum.........................................................32 The Obelisk in Cemetery Art.........................................34 La Grange "Rocks".............................................................38
ROUND TOP
Welcome to Round Top...................................................40 Letter From Mayor Barry Bone......................................41 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play..............................42 Round Top's 150th Celebration.....................................44 Festival Hill.........................................................................46 Antiques Show...................................................................48
CARMINE
Welcome to Carmine........................................................50 Letter From Mayor Wade Eilers.....................................51 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play..............................52 The Perfect Blend..............................................................54
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Table of contents
VISIT FAYETTE COUNTY
La Grange
Round Top
Carmine
Flatonia
FLATONIA
Welcome to Flatonia.........................................................60 Letter From Mayor Bryan Milson...................................61 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play..............................62 Flatonia Railroad Museum..............................................64 Holiday Treats.....................................................................66
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Schulenburg
SCHULENBURG
Welcome to Schulenburg...............................................68 Letter From Mayor Elaine Kocian.................................69 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play..............................70 Schulenburg’s Painted Churches..................................72
FAYETTEVILLE
Welcome to Fayetteville...................................................76 Letter From Mayor Carl Marino......................................77 Places to Eat, Stay, Worship & Play...............................78 Artists & Art-Lovers Flock to Fayetteville..........................................................80
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2020 FALL/WI
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Fayetteville
On the Cover
Richard Schmidt of Richard Schmidt Jewelry Design
WELCOME TO
FAYETTE COUNTY Places to
eat, stay, worship & play
Richard Sch midt Jewelry Des ign LOCAL ARTIS ANS SHARE THEIR RICHARD AND JANET SCHMIDT HOMEGROW N SUCCESS STORY OFFICIAL PUBLICAT ION
OF
LA GRANGE • ROUND TOP • CARMINE • FLATONIA
• SCHULENBUR G • FAYET TEVILLE
2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Visit Fayette County Colorado River
Welcome to Fayette is published 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 or to familiarize newcomers to the area. 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 Jessica Montez
ACCOUNTING Theresia Karstedt Nonnie Barton
PRODUCTION John Castaneda Lindsey Fojtik
CIRCULATION JoAnn Mueller George Kana Bobby Bedient Jesse Montez Leigh Ann Bedient Nicol Krenek
ADVERTISING Becky Weise Jackie Daniels
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 FALL/WINTER 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
Antiques
Weikels Kolaches
Fayette County Courthouse
“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 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Stackable cuffs
Completely Schmidtten
LOCAL ARTISANS RICHARD AND JANET SCHMIDT SHARE THEIR HOMEGROWN SUCCESS STORY WRITTEN BY KIRSTEN CORNELL
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2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Concert tee & turquoise
VISIT Fayette county
As Richard Schmidt sits next to his son Tyler at the bench creating wearable works of art, he can’t help but reflect on his history in Fayette County. As a fourth-generation resident of La Grange, his roots and his memories run deep. “I remember going to the stores on the square with my parents or riding my bike to the public swimming pool with my friends and being able to stay out until dark,” recalls Richard. “Living here created solid core values and good relationships—things I want to pass on to my own family.” Appreciating people and the community is a lesson that Richard and his wife Janet have continued to carry with them as they navigate life—and their business.
ARTISTIC ROOTS
Although he created a style all his own, Richard was no stranger to the jewelry business growing up. In fact, his parents, Milton and Betty Schmidt purchased and owned the store for many years before Richard and Janet eventually took over. “I remember my father sitting at the workbench and working with stones,” he recalls. Like many teens, Richard admits he wasn’t originally enamored with the family business, but a few university classes would help him discover his talents. Ready to explore his horizons, Richard headed to Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State) in San Marcos where he studied Geography and Art. “I guess that was the beginning of following in his footsteps because both of my parents attended school there as well,” he laughs. Embracing the beauty of the Texas hill country and college experience, Richard began to discover that nature inspired his creative juices. “I had a metals professor that encouraged me to experiment and be creative. I think that fluidity really helped me open up to eventually creating what my style has grown into today,” says Richard. His style reflects people, places, and tells the history of where his pieces came from. “If you sit with a stone long enough, it will tell you what needs to be done with it,” he adds.
FINDING HIS STYLE
When Richard moved back to La Grange, it was Milton who reintroduced him to jewelry making. Drawn to the metal aspects of art, Richard predominately enjoyed working with silver when he first began. He appreciated the way it worked and that it was more pliable than some materials, allowing him to create his unique pieces. “When I first started, I didn’t know I wanted to hammer everything,” he laughs. “I liked the texture and how it looked. Now, 99% of what I do has a hammered base.”
Blessed to have thi s am
azing team
While this might be one of his most recognizable features, it also quickly became an underlying theme—complementing the overall vision for their store. But it wasn’t without some trial-and-error. “I burned up a lot of stuff in those early days,” he admits. “But sometimes when you make those mistakes, they end up being something really cool you expand on.” And that’s exactly what he has done—now distributing his one-of-kind pieces in nearly a dozen states. Richard knew when he began that he wanted to create something people enjoyed, he wanted their store to be a reflection of his passion—and his family.
2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Keep it classic with Pearls
Relaxed style for a casual day
Sterling Silver and 14k Gold Radiating Cu ffs
A FAMILY AFFAIR
Once they purchased the shop, they began to shift from a fine jewelry “traditional” feel to more of a fresh and artisan-based motif. “Janet has a genuine talent for discovering things before they have become trends,” says Richard. “She and our daughter Lauren attend markets and purchase items for the store, and they always come back with real treasures.” A true family affair, all of them have had their hands and hearts in the business at one point or another. “I really love what I do. And getting to do it alongside my family every day, that’s something I can’t replace with anything else. I’m immensely grateful,” he shares. While Janet handles the business side of things, Richard designs and fellow jewelers Tyler and Garrett bring up the creative pieces. “We all love what we do, and we’re always doing what we do. It’s a great relationship,” he says. Between their La Grange and Round Top locations, the Schmidt family has 15 employees that support their artistry and vision. Without them, Richard admits they wouldn’t be able to hold everything together. “We are part of an amazing team. There’s something special about living here, owning a business here. We’re thankful to be living this Texas dream.”
THAT A-HA MOMENT
While his pieces are certainly distinguishable, no one is quite like the other because each one is made meticulously by hand. Though similar in design, texture, or stone, patrons can be certain that when they purchase a piece of Schmidt’s art, no one in the world has one
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2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
quite like it. “Hammering pieces means that they don’t come out perfectly, and I love that about it,” says Richard. “The pieces are truly handmade, and they tell a story from the stone that was chosen to the way we chose to piece it together.” The crossed arrows in his logo, which are often reflected in his pieces as well, symbolize friendship—a thread that has weaved through this adventure from the beginning. “We’ve met so many people along the way either through the store or our years participating in the Round Top Antiques Show. We hear their stories and see their faces when they find a new piece they just love. Many of those encounters develop into deep friendships,” he shares. “That’s really what it’s about—people.” Over years of honing his craft, Richard has met many people that come to the store specifically to see his pieces or have heard about them from someone. Even collectors that are looking to add another piece to their assemblage. “Just coming into the store to view what we’ve built is a huge compliment,” he says. “But then, they buy a few pieces and stack it on their wrist—it’s almost overwhelming.” But, the real “a-ha moment” came when he and Janet were in an airport. “We were walking through and I noticed that someone was wearing a bracelet I made,” he laughs. “I grabbed Janet and said, ‘Look! She’s wearing something I made!’ I didn’t know her, she wasn’t a family member…that was the moment I knew that I was truly making something that people appreciated and wanted to wear.”
Jewelry Wi Soul ©2020 The Fayette County Record
Hand Crafted in Texas
Round Top + La Grange 979-968-5149 | richardschmidtjewelry.com
BEHIND THE BENCH
The end result is no doubt beautiful, but it’s a process to get there. Richard and Janet often travel to gem shows as far as New Mexico and Arizona finding the perfect materials for their pieces. Always having favored turquoise, he is currently bringing more mother of pearl and rhodochrosite (a rose-red colored stone) into the fold. “And diamonds! The contrast of the rugged, hammered material with classic diamonds creates some distinctive pieces,” he adds. But every piece starts with a flat sheet of silver. Using a heavier gauge, he cuts the section he will need and then begins to stamp or hammer depending on the creation. Every cuff has to be bent by hand and then comes the heavy dose of imagination—what will go on it? Once design and gemstones are chosen, the soldering process begins. “Oxidizing follows soldering which turns the entire piece black,” Richard explains. “After setting the stone we begin to remove the black but this becomes the intricate part. We want to leave bits of it strategically to create the look and depth that is part of our signature.” However, that secret sauce is off the record.
The bold look of sp iney oyster & turquoise jewelry Richard & Janet Schmidt
Once a piece is polished, it’s ready to head to the shop. “Our cuffs are definitely some of the most popular items. And, coincidentally, some of my favorite to make,” Richard shares. “They are typically a larger piece and allow me to be a narrator. It’s like painting on a canvas. I use a combination of things to tell a good story.” Richard also creates commissioned pieces; whether a buyer sees something on the website that they would like to be slightly different, or they have a family heirloom that can be cast into wearable history. “I have had the privilege of working with family stones or coins and transforming it into something they can wear and enjoy every day,” he shares. “It’s an enormous compliment that they want me to help memorialize their family that way.”
LOVING LA GRANGE
Although Richard enjoys traveling through much of the Southwest gathering inspiration and drinking in the beauty of the area, he appreciates returning to his hometown. “I can’t even tell you how happy I am to live in a small town in Texas,” he laughs. Besides a sense of normalcy despite the current state of things, the Schmidt family enjoys a deep history in the area and continues to build on their legacy. An active member in the community, Richard lead the church youth group for 10 years, is a former Lions Club member and has been to countless football games and school events. “Everybody knows everyone. You get to know the kids on the team and the other parents—you root for each other. La Grange has something special,” he says. A true homegrown success, Richard gives his family and his community much of the credit—and a healthy helping of passion. He admits that when they first started, they weren’t sure if they he and Janet were going to be able to make a go of it or not, but they had a fire. “You need to do what you love,” he says. “If you do what you love, then your path will eventually take you where you need to be. It worked for us and I believe it can work for other people, too.”
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2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
Hand forged + hand finished in Texas
VISIT Fayette county
ey lry
The Makers (L to R) Tyler, Richard & Garrett
Sterling Silver Crossed Arrows and Turquoise Cuffs
Mixed metals for everyday in sterling silver + 14k gold
SHOP SCHMIDT GALLERIES LA GRANGE 118 N. WASHINGTON 979-968-5149 The effortless look of Mother of Pearl
ROUND TOP 601 NORTH WASHINGTON 979-249-6061 RICHARDSCHMIDTJEWELRY.COM
Crafted to be timeless
Lovely on its ow n or layered
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APPETITE! White Box II
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Call ahead to have it hot and ready for pick-up or have it delivered with a $5 delivery fee!
©2020 The Fayette County Record
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P.O. Box 1159 • La Grange • 979-968-8471 • office@ecoservices.co
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2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
LANDSCAPE LIGHTING
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www.countrypropertiesgroup.com MEMBER HAR & SCBOR all material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. all measurements and square footages are approximate. exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. this is not intended to solicit property already listed. nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. equal Housing opportunity.
Fayette County Real Estate YOU’RE NOT JUST BUYING A HOME, YOU’RE BUYING A COMMUNITY WRITTEN BY JESSICA MONTEZ
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It has been said that the number one rule in real estate is location, location, location, and from small to large parcels of land, to little cottages to big ranches you have a lot of location to choose from in Fayette County. Nestled along the Colorado River, Fayette County offers scenic views of the river, terrain, and all things nature. Each town in Fayette County has its own individuality and charm making the real estate in each town just as special. Round Top may seem like just another small town, but it isn’t just a place. It is an experience with so much history and richness. You will soon understand why people keep coming back and eventually decide to stay. Carmine just down the road literally from Round Top is a small town with a big heart that offers that relaxing atmosphere perfect for a weekend getaway or maybe a lasting home. Just up the road, sits Fayetteville a town that is still as it has been for over a hundred years, quaint and perfect if you are looking for a slower pace of life.
VISIT Fayette county
With all that being said by far her favorite thing about real estate is the wonderful and beautiful people she meets along the way who always seem to become lifelong clients and friends.
La Grange, the county seat of Fayette County, is full of attractions, history, and scenic views of the whole county can be seen on the Bluff, a place with so much history of its own. Now the best way to describe Schulenburg is halfway to everywhere or some might say halfway to heaven being the “Home of the Painted Churches.” Along these churches sits the wide countryside perfect for your next home. Last but certainly not least is Flatonia. Flatonia, another small town with so much more to offer from easy living to nostalgic feelings, and plenty of friendly people. It is also the scenic spot for train watchers, owning one of Texas’ longest-standing, manually operated railroad switching towers, making it the perfect place to sit and relax as you watch the trains go by.
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Fayette County is well known as one of the most progressive little big counties in Texas so it's no surprise that the real estate market plays an important role in that progression. Real Estate Agent Andrea Schutter Riebeling, who works for Coldwell Banker Properties Unlimited, couldn’t agree more! She knows all things real estate and all things Fayette County can offer in real estate. Andrea works a wide range of territories in real estate, but she specializes in the Round Top/Fayette County area in the range from residential, farm and ranch, premier luxury properties, antique show commercial venues to bed and breakfasts, as she lives in the Round Top area. She has years of experience in the industry and as a skilled realtor, she brings integrity, dedication, and precision, along with the knowledge to sell your property. She also has a degree in interior design so she can easily see which home will be the right home for you both inside and out.
Fayette County itself is also located in an ideal location with it being right in the middle of some of Texas’ biggest cities, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. However, those city folks tend to travel to Fayette County to get away from the traffic, crowds, and other noises the city brings. Fayette County is just a short drive away to peace and quiet and a great option for a weekend or vacation home. Speaking of a weekend or vacation home, it is the best thing to have when it's time for Fayette County’s popular Antique Show. The Fayette County Antique Show takes place twice a year, in the spring and in the fall, and is held in Round Top and surrounding communities in Fayette County. It is nationally recognized as one of the largest antique markets in America, drawing thousands of dealers to tents, fields, and buildings. Andrea has found that a weekend or vacation home is a must during this time since every year all the hotels, motels, RV parks, and rental homes are 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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booked months in advance, so find your home with her so you can truly enjoy the show. Along with real estate, Fayette County has so much to offer you as you can see. From great grocery stores, fun local stores, an array of antique stores and vendors (as mentioned above), entertaining wine bars, good churches to get your spirit filled, countless history and cultural sites plus so much more. Andrea has even heard all it takes is one trip to Fayette County and you are hooked to find your dream home here. Some of you might be asking yourselves is this really the right time to think about real estate with the pandemic happening? Well, Andrea has found that because of the pandemic many people who have worked from home and who are continuing to do so have realized that if they have to work from home then they should have the place of their dreams. That may be the option of just upgrading, moving to a new location, or deciding that it is time to move to another county entirely, and what better county then Fayette County. Showing and previewing homes is still an option during this pandemic and Andrea will work with you step by step during this time to make sure you still get your dream home or land no matter what! Andrea is looking forward to working with you to fulfill your real estate dreams. So now that you know what it can be like to live in Fayette County and what a great community you will be coming to then why not give Andrea a call. She sells a lifestyle, not just real estate!
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2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
VISIT Fayette county
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©2020 The Fayette County Record
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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
SCHULENBURG HISTORICAL MUSEUM 631 N. Main Street Schulenburg, TX 78956 Open Friday & Saturday 10-2 or by appointment
For Event Tickets and More Info visit texasindependencewinetrail.com
979-743-2403
Schulenburg.museum@verizon.net 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Who’s on the Trail? BLISSFUL FOLLY FARM See ad on pg 36 BLUE MULE WINES See ad on pg 79 BUSTED OAK CELLARS See ad on pg 84 CAST IRON WINERY See ad on pg 19 MAJEK WINEYARD & WINERY See ad on pg 19 PIPERS CREEK VINEYARD See ad on pg 19 ROSEMARY’S VINEYARD See ad on pg 23 SAN DUCERRO WINERY See ad on pg 19
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Wine Trail FAYETTE COUNTY’S WINE TRAIL GUIDE
VISIT Fayette county
TEXAS INDEPENDENCE
WRITTEN BY KARA KOETHER
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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.
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. 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.
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Busted Oak Cellars
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. 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. 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.
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For events visit texasindependencewinetrail.com
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Your Favorite Bottle Shop NOW in Three Locations! art Now p of the P -TO POP-A hop eS Bottl y! Famil
Rohan Meadery
CLINTS LIQUOR STORE
Smithville
512-237-2315
104 N 3RD ST, Mon-Sat • 10am-9pm
FINE SPIRITS • WINE • BEER FACEBOOK • @POPATOPBOTTLESHOPTOO
©2020 The Fayette County Record
La Grange
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979-966-8149
150 N VAIL ST, Mon-Sat • 10am-9pm
Round Top
979-249-5055 341 E MILL ST, Wed-Thurs 1-6, Fri-Sat 11-7
2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
Rosemary’s Vineyard
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Trail of Lights KREISCHE BREWERY AND MONUMENT HILL STATE HISTORIC SITES WILL HOST THE TRAIL OF LIGHTS IN DECEMBER
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VISIT Fayette county
LA GRANGE, Texas –– The grounds of Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites will be transformed with beautiful holiday lights during the evenings in December. This year this popular holiday tradition has been expanded from five nights to 14 nights allowing plenty opportunities for a safe and socially distant holiday experience. Even though Santa won’t be able to visit this year, guests will enjoy walking trail with new light displays and photo opportunities in a safe, outdoor venue. The exterior of the Kreische House will be decorated according to nineteen-century German tradition. (Crafts, refreshments, and live entertainment will return in 2021.) The Trail of Lights will be open 5:308:00pm on the evenings of December 4-6, 10-13, and 17-23. Admission fees are $5 for adults, $1 for children ages 3-12, 3 and under are free. Reservations might be required on Friday and Saturday evenings. Call 979-968-5658 for more information.
BACKGROUND: Kreische Brewery and Monument Hill State Historic Sites are two of the 30 historic sites operated by the Texas Historical Commission. Kreische Brewery tells the real story of master stonemason and German immigrant, Heinrich Kreische and his family, who built a large home and one of the first commercial breweries in Texas. Monument Hill tells the story of the men that died during the Dawson Massacre of September 1842 and the ill-fated Mier expedition of November 1842, also known as the “black bean” incident. The sites also include recreational opportunities for hiking and picnicking. For more information visit www.visitkreischebrewery.com.
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Photo by Lindsey Fojtik
La Grange Gardenia Janssen Animal Shelter
Colorado River
La Grange is on the Colorado River, between Houston
the Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic
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 2019 population estimate was 4,677.
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ndsey Fojtik
Sites. Monument Hill is a memorial to the men who
ria & Deli Rebas Pizze
Photo by Li
and Austin on Texas State Highway 71. It is home to
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 and the Kreische Brewery state historic sites. We are an award-winning Main Street City. I invite you to visit our Visitors Center located in our 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 artists' 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
Fayette County Fair
Photo by Lindsey Fojtik
La Grange Farm and Ranch
Oktoberfest in La Grange
“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 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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La Grange
PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS
Domino’s Pizza 2001 TX-71 Suite 10
Reba’s Deli & Pizzeria 539 East Colorado St.
Frisch Auf Valley Country Club 575 Country Club Dr
Riverside Cafe 1225 Carroll Lane
Trick-Or-Treat on the Square October 30
Golden Chick 312 East Travis Street
Sealand Seafood & Steaks 2359 W Hwy 71
NOVEMBER Shop Small Saturday November 28
Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant 403 North Jefferson Street
Sonic 717 East Travis Street
DECEMBER 13th Annual Scmeckenfest December 3
Hank’s Express 154 South Jefferson Street
Subway 109 South Jefferson Street
Monument Hill Trail of Lights December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19
Holman Valley Steakhouse 10204 FM 155
Taco Bell 2201 W Hwy 71
FEBRUARY La Grange Uncorked February 13
Jay Dee’z Sports Grill 2001 TX-71
Taqueria Rio Verde 1330 North Jefferson
Best Little Quilt Show in Texas February 26-27
La Marina 1502 TX-71
Taqueria Sergios 1432 TX-71
MARCH Best Little Cowboy Gathering in Texas March 11-13
Las Fuentes 685 South Jefferson Street
Texas One Stop BBQ & Bakery 1704 TX-71
Latte Café 219 West Travis Street
Weikel’s Bakery 2247 W TX-71
Back Porch BBQ & Grill 1602 North Jefferson Street
Leopard Donuts 240 E Travis St.
Whataburger 1800 E TX-71
Big State Coffee House & Roastery 107 West Colorado Street
Lukas Bakery 135 N. Main St.
White Box II 922 East Travis Street
Bodega Wine Market 201 West Travis Street Suite 2622
McDonald’s 2304 West Travis St.
Dairy Queen 311 North Jefferson Street
Pizza Hut 2230 Bus W Hwy 71
Nearby Murphy’s Steakhouse 204 Thomas St, Winchester, TX 78945
OCTOBER Oktoberfest on the Square October 3 Heritage Fest & Muziky-Celebration of Czech Music & Culture October 17
RESTAURANTS
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Que Zeen Barbecue Cuisine 5606 US-77, Warda, TX 78960
River Valley Motor Inn 1575 West Travis Street
LODGING
S&H RV Park 3517 Post Oak Rd
Ammannsville Cottages 9018 FM 1383 Bed & Breakfast on Main 512 South Main Street
Suite 244 Historic Downtown Accommodations 244 North Washington Street
Big Tin Flag Bed & Breakfast 714 East Radhost School Road
Suncatcher RV Park 3033 S. US Highway 77
Blue Willow Farm B&B 1412 S US Hwy 77
The Oak Motel 227 South Jefferson Street
Brendan Manor Bed & Breakfast 345 East Travis Street
Nearby Corral RV Park West Point, TX 78963
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 Hampton Inn La Grange 1624 W TX-71 Laughing Hen Silos 4741 Highway 159 Lodge on Lake Siesta 5145 FM 153 Lucky Penny Ranch 6822 Wied Road Lutherhill Ministries RV Site 3782 Lutherhill Road Oak Thicket Park on Lake Fayette 3819 W State Highway 159
First Baptist 5000 West State Hwy. 71 Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. Adult, Student & Children Groups Wed. 6 p.m. (979) 968-5651 www.fbclagrange.net
Silos at 159 4741 Highway 159
Best Western La Grange Inn & Suites 600 E Hwy 71 Bypass
Colorado Landing RV 64 E Bluff View
Ebenezer Baptist 829 N. Jefferson Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship 11 a.m. & 6 p.m.
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.
CHURCHES
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.
ASSEMBLY OF GOD Asamblia of God Vida Abudante AG 124 S. Franklin St. Miercoles 7-9 p.m. Domingo 10 a.m. 338-0235 Gospel Lighthouse Assembly of God 144 S. College Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7 p.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. (979) 968-5950 BAPTIST Bible Baptist Church 153 E Crockett St. (979) 968-4981 Calvary Baptist Church 650 S. Ellinger Rd. Wednesday 6 p.m. Bible Study 10 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. & Evening Worship 6 p.m. (979) 966-2670
La Grange
West Point Crossroads 900 E State Loop 543, West Point, TX 78963
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 (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. www.hostynplumcatholic.org (979) 247-4441
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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. www.sacredheartlagrange.org (979) 968-3430
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. www.sharedlutheranministry.org (979) 249-3155
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 7745 Mensik Rd., Ammannsville Sunday Mass 9:30 a.m. Worship 8:00 a.m. (Even Months) & Worship at 9:30 a.m. (Odd Months) (979) 743-3117
LUTHERAN Holy Cross Lutheran FM 1482 Warda Worship. 9 a.m. Sunday School 10:15 a.m. www.holycrosswarda.com 979) 242-3333
St. Peter & Paul Catholic 126 Plum Church Rd. Plum, TX 78952 Sun. Mass: 10 a.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 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. 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
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. www.stmichaelswinchester.org (979) 242-3444 St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church 110 West Walnut Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship Sat. 5 p.m. & Sun. 9 a.m. www.stpaullg.org (979) 968-5657 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
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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 SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST Seventh-day Adventist 1000 E Hwy 71 Saturday-Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. Worship 11 a.m. www.lagrangetx.adventistchurch.org (979) 968-8519 Cowboy Church Colorado River Cowboy Church 5122 Hwy. 71 - between La Grange & Smithville Bible Study 8:45 a.m. Worship 10 a.m. www.coloradorivercowboychurch.org
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 The Remnant Church 2010 Von Minden Rd. Sunday Service 10 a.m. Mon. Prayer 6 p.m. Wed. Children & Youth Life Night 6:30 p.m. www.theremnantchurch.net (979) 968-5065
FESTIVALS Oktoberfest on the Square October 3 Oktoberfest held on the Courthouse Square is filled with fun and It's a true family event. Bring the kids to enjoy activities provided by Camp Lone Star of La Grange. There will
be tons of entertainment under the event tent for adults along with over 100 different kinds of craft beer to sample. Wine samples will be available throughout the various boutiques on the Square. Don't forget the homemade schnitzel and German noodles to round out your Oktoberfest experience! Heritage Fest & Muziky-Celebration of Czech Music & Culture October 17 The Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange will host their annual Heritage Festival & Muziky The Fest will be altered to a one-day event for 2020 only. The Fest kicks off at 10 am with heritage and culture in the Czech Village, an early 1900s recreated village complete with residential houses, barns, and stores. Demonstrations of early life for the immigrants will take place throughout the grounds all day, including working in the sawmill, the operation of the Czech Newspaper Museum press and engine, blacksmithing, corn shelling and grinding, hay pressing, and more. Plenty of food and cold beverages will be available as well.
13th Annual Scmeckenfest December 3 Scmeckenfest attracts visitors to the Courthouse Square to sample wassail (hot cider) that shop owners make with their very own special recipe. The event also includes music, delicious treats sold by local nonprofit organizations, and let’s not forget a visit from Santa. The festivities begin with a Christmas parade and the lighting of the Fayette County Christmas tree on the Courthouse lawn.
La Grange
OTHERS Primera Inglesia Bautista 1099 N. Von Minden St., Worship Wednesday 7 p.m. Friday Youth & Regular Service 7 p.m. Worship 10:30 a.m.
La Grange Uncorked February 13 With over 16 wine varieties around the Courthouse Square, you’re sure to entertain your taste buds! Also, local caterers will be preparing samplings of their various specialty dishes. There will also be plenty of activities for children on the courthouse lawn. So grab a friend and get ready to sip wine while you shop the downtown boutiques. Due to coronavirus all events, places to eat & stay, churches, and festivals may be cancelled, postponed, or organized differently.
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
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Texas Quilt Museum HISTORY IN THE MAKING
The autumn exhibits at the Texas Quilt Museum virtually soar with a retrospective for one of quilting’s biggest superstars and an avianthemed juried show that really takes flight! Picture Perfect: Quilts by Cynthia England and Flying High: For the Love of Birds will be on display from September 24-December 30. Picture Perfect: Quilts by Cynthia England features 13 remarkable quilts by England, who perfected her representational piecing technique in 1992. She is recognized internationally as an author, pattern designer, and fiber artist, and has won many competition Piece and Quiet (62” x 78,”) by Cynthia England, 1993, photo by Ken Wagner. From the exhibit Picture Perfect: Quilts by Cynthia England. Awards including three Best of Show prizes at International Quilt Association’s annual Judged Show in Houston. Experimentation with quilting techniques led her to develop her own unique style, “picture piecing,” for interpreting photographs in spectacular pictorial quilts. “In this process, she breaks down the picture into very small sections that can be sewn using straight seams exclusively. Viewers find it difficult to believe that paper piecing is not at all part of England’s technique,” says Museum Curator Dr. Sandra Sider. In addition, England is the designer and owner of England Design Studios, a publishing/pattern company specializing in the picture-piecing technique with more than 75 patterns to her credit. She has also produced two books and a video explaining the process. This exhibit will be the subject of a special Museum Monograph, available for purchase.
for their striking artworks, while traditionally appliquéd quilts treat viewers to vividly ornamental interpretations of birds. Dr. Sider says “This timely exhibition reminds us of the beauty and power of nature, as well as the vital importance of natural resources in maintaining the checks and balances of our own habitats.” Flying High is sponsored by the Lucille Gaebler Klein Fund. To inquire about booking the touring exhibition of Flying High, please email Dr. Sandra Sider at curator@ texasquiltmuseum.org. In accordance with coronavirus-related guidelines set by the city of La Grange and the state of Texas, masks will be required for all Museum visitors. The Museum will also have reduced visitor capacity, asks that guests observe social distancing in the galleries, and will have extra hand sanitizer stations have been placed throughout the building. The Texas Quilt Museum is located at 140 W. Colorado St., La Grange, TX 78945. It is open Thurs.-Sat. from 10 am-4 pm. Learn more at www.TexasQuiltMuseum.org. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter. Media: For visuals or interviews, contact Bob Ruggiero, Vice President of Communications for Quilts, Inc., at bobr@quilts.com.
The Great One (44” x 30”) by Melanie Marr. From the exhibit Flying High: For the Love of Birds.
Flying High: For the Love of Birds will feature 41 quilts curated by Museum codirectors Karey Bresenhan and Nancy O’Bryant Puentes. This visually exciting collection of art and contemporary traditional quilts celebrates our feathered friends and the many ways in which they help sustain our ecosystems. The quilts depict water birds, including pelicans, egrets, ducks, an osprey, and a swan. Several artists created with a more abstract approach, using the colors and patterns of feathers
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2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
Piece and Quiet (62” x 78,”) by Cynthia England, 1993, photo by Ken Wagner. From the exhibit Picture Perfect: Quilts by Cynthia England.
©2020 The Fayette County Record
La Grange
4 Peas Resale
The resale shop with endless possibilities. Wednesday-Friday Saturday-Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed MOnday & Tuesday
©2020 The Fayette County Record
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227 S. Jefferson St. La Grange • www.theoakmotel.com 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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The Obelisk in Cemetery art
OUR HISTORIC CEMETERY ART WRITTEN BY NEALE RABENSBURG
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The obelisk is defined as a tall, four-sided, narrow and tapering monument ending in a pyramid-like shape or pyramidion at the top. Today. obelisks are not only prevalent as grave markers but are also displayed on the campuses of institutional and religious facilities and in other outdoors spaces such as parks, esplanades, plazas and squares. The tallest obelisk in the world is the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. In ancient times, obelisks were placed in pairs at the entrances to Egyptian temples and were carved from one complete stone. It was a tribute to the Sun God, Ra, and symbolized a single sun ray piercing the sky. This pagan art form found its way into Christian burials by the Victorians of the mid19th Century, who placed in their cemeteries some form of Egyptian influence. The campaigns of 1798-99 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the discovery of the tombs at the Valley of the Kings near Luxor and the preference by the Republic of the United States to acquire the best of the ancient cultures led to a resurgence of classical interest and the Egyptian obelisk, which was considered to be tasteful, uplifting, regal and patriotic. During the 19th Century, many large scale, ancient Egyptian obelisks were transported to the capitals of Europe including Rome, Paris and London and to Asia Minor at Istanbul, Turkey. Pharaoh Thutmose III’s obelisk sculpted in about 1450 B.C. during Egypt’s New Dynasty made its way to North America and New York City’s Central Park, where it was lifted upright on January 22, 1881. Rome has thirteen surviving ancient Egyptian obelisks. Tourists and Catholics are familiar with the Vatican Obelisk, which is the focal point of the Piazza San Pietro. This imposing pinnacle, which may have been sculpted in about 2500 B.C., was brought to Imperial Rome from Alexandria by the Emperor Caligula in 37 A.D. Initially, it was placed in a garden and then later moved to the central spina of a new stadium known as the Circus of Caligula (also referred to as the Circus of Nero). Rome built six of these Circuses (circi) for chariot racing and processionals. The Circus of Caligula was enormous and flanked the edge of what would later become the Vatican complex. Construction began in 40
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La Grange
A.D.; however, few people today are aware of its existence or of the previous history of the “Vatican” Obelisk, which had also been the focal point of this stadium’s racetrack, where countless Christians were martyred during the reign of Emperor Nero. According to historical accounts, casualties within the Obelisk’s shadow would include the Apostles of Saint Peter by crucifixion and Saint Paul by decapitation. MGM’s epic film “Quo Vadis” (1951) is a must-see for its representation of the Circus of Caligula where the Apostle Peter shouts words of encouragement from the seating tiers to the corralled Christians below. The film reveals the indifference of the Roman spectators, the arrogance of Emperor Nero and his entourage and the tragic persecution of the Christians as they are devoured by a horde of lions. In the background, the “Vatican” Obelisk from its vantage point mounted high on the central spina becomes a mute witness to this spectacle. The Pharaohs of Egypt, the Emperors of Imperial Rome and the Renaissance Popes revered the imposing form of the obelisk and demanded its presence before its places of worship and great promenades. A resurgence in classical art design during the mid19th Century placed the obelisk once again into the forefront with the governments of the world. The Victorians of this period were also intrigued and introduced the obelisk at their burial plots where it became the “most pervasive of all the revival forms” of cemetery art. The City of La Grange displays a significant array of memorial obelisks as well. One of historical merit, however, is not in a cemetery but on the eastside of the Fayette County Court House. This monument was dedicated to the Republic of Texas soldiers, who lost their lives during the Dawson Massacre of 1842 and as prisoners of the Mier Expedition, who, unfortunately, drew the black bean in 1843. The pinnacle of this monument is set on a tiered block base and is capped with a “pyramidion” and urn. The La Grange “Old” City Cemetery contain a large selection of Victorian classical art forms including many obelisks. It is within a triangular-shaped block between the streets of E. Travis and E. Colorado and N. College and the railway easement. A wrought iron fence surrounds much of the perimeter with access via pedestrian gates at N. College and E. Colorado. Vehicular traffic is prohibited except by City maintenance crews. Burials no longer occur, and the area is designated historic by the Texas Historical Commission. The earliest grave sites date from the mid-19th Century. Visitors upon arrival will see a myriad of soring classical monuments plus a significant number of obelisks both tall and short, where the count exceeds fifty. Among these is the Logan obelisk, which is by far the tallest grave marker in both the “Old” and “New” City Cemeteries. Its height is in excess of twenty feet and is quite visible to vehicular traffic on E. Travis. Three other obelisks of merit by their height and scale are the N. W Faison-Henry Faison, the Kirsch and the Stemmons-Crawford family monuments. The “New” City Cemetery is much larger in size than the “Old” and, although referred to locally as new, this tract is quite old as well and dates from the late 19th Century. Many of the burials for the La Grange community for the past one hundred years have been in the “New” section where plots continue to remain available. This newer part lies between E. Travis and E. Eblin and S. Lester and the railway easement and is gridded with streets forming blocks, which are further subdivided into 5 by 10-foot grave plots. Grassy alleyways cross the blocks for access and interior maintenance. The narrow, vehicular asphalt streets are named as “lettered” avenues to
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36 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
Thurs & Sun 12 to 6pm; Fri 12 to 7pm & Sat 12 to 8pm
1. The imposing red granite obelisk for John Speckels, Sr. and his wife Magerete appears to be the tallest grave marker in the “New” City Cemetery and exceeds eighteen feet in height. (Located on the northside of 1st Street between Avenues C & D.)
DR. KARI BRAWLEY
La Grange
the north and south and as “numbered” streets to the east and west. The oldest part of the “New” City Cemetery stretches from the west entrance at S. Lester east to Avenue E and from 2nd Street north to E. Travis. This older section of the “New” mimics the classical style of the “Old”. Three monuments are noted as exceptional due to their elaborate form and scale and are listed as follows:
2. The tiered monument for the C. J. von Rosenberg family approaches eighteen feet in height and is an imposing, tieredblock monument topped with a shrouded urn. (Located along the northside of 1st Street near its intersection with Avenue E.) 3. The Stolz mausoleum is a one-of-a-kind structure and is without question an architectural gem. (Located on the southside of 1st Street at its intersection with Avenue A.) The “New” City Cemetery stretches south a considerable distance from its older section towards E. Eblin where it terminates at a pavilion for weather-protected services and a notable section dedicated to many descendants of the “Cozy Corner” community. This extended area offers a few islands of welcoming shade trees but, for the most part, it is open to the air and a sea of low-level monuments colored primarily in gray but dotted with black, white and various shades of red. There is a renaissance, however, in monument design at the south end and, more particularly, in that block located immediately to the north of the pavilion, where the cemetery rises to a higher elevation and overlooks the “sea of gray” to the north. With this commanding view, larger scale and more unusual monuments have been placed helping to counter some of the uniformity of the cemetery’s earlier 20th Century character. Two recently placed, tall obelisks, which recall the Victorian era, are a part of this renaissance block. One of these is a black and gray granite composite rising to over ten feet in height while the other is a solid color, India red granite with a multiple-tiered base and tapering pinnacle reaching to over fifteen feet above grade. A third noteworthy, recent addition is not an obelisk but a large-scale, India gray granite headstone resting on a handsome, tiered base. On the rear side is a chart of the genealogical history including porcelain plates of family shields, which are flush mounted into the face of the granite. Also, rumored within this renaissance block is a proposed statue of a “weeping angel.” If placed, then this would be another “retro” addition recalling a 19th Century Victorian art form. The La Grange City Cemetery both ‘Old” and “New” offers an attractive array of both classical and contemporary monuments where the grounds are well-maintained on a regular basis by City personnel. The “pervasive” obelisk is a dominant art form in the “Old” and to a lesser degree in the older section of the “New” but has risen again with two new obelisks in the renaissance block located at the south end of the “New.”
YOU CAN PICK UP YOUR FREE CEMETERY SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR BROCHURE AT THE LA GRANGE VISITORS CENTER LOCATED INSIDE THE HISTORIC CASINO HALL.
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979-968-5813 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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La Grange Rocks! PAINTED ROCK PROGRAM EXPLODES AMIDST PANDEMIC
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2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
La Grange
Connections can be hard to make and especially hard to continue to make during this uncertain time, but little things can make the world a better and bearable place. Here in Fayette County those little things happen to be rocks, yes, rocks and not only rocks, but La Grange “Rocks”! La Grange “Rocks”! is a Facebook page made by Pat Corb in an effort to spread happiness, love and inspiration through the simple gesture of painting rocks and “hiding” them throughout the community for people to find. Corb started La Grange “Rocks”! in 2016 and throughout the years the page has had a steady following, but once the coronavirus left many children and their families quarantining at home the page has grown a new initiative. “This is a community-building group meant to inspire creativity in all ages and bring kids and families back together again in a world gone completely wild,” said Corb. “People have a desire to connect with others and I believe painting rocks is a way they may feel they can reach out and touch someone without physically doing so.” Katy Michalke, whose family has participated with La Grange “Rocks”! on and off over the years, sees how important and fun this new rock initiative is. “Almost every evening since the pandemic started, my family and two neighbors walk and ride bikes through town and we immediately noticed many other families out doing the same and thought how much fun it would be to start painting rocks again and leaving them all over town for others to find,” said Michalke. “The entire process is a lot of fun for all ages! From finding good rocks to paint, painting them, hiding them, seeing them moved and then seeing people post pictures on the La Grange “Rocks”! Facebook page of the rocks we have hidden.” Interested? Well all you have to do is find some rocks, whether outside or from Sutherlands, Home Depot, etc. and buy some painting supplies, like paint, Sharpies and gloss, etc., get creative and then “hide” your rock somewhere around town for someone to find. On the back of your artwork , Corb would love if you referenced La Grange Rocks! She also recommends once you are done painting your rock, that you seal it with a clear coat before hiding it to protect your art from the elements. Now if you find an art rock, you can either keep the rock or rehide the rock for someone else to find and of course post pictures on the Facebook page of your painted rocks before you hide them and also when you find them. This is so much more than artistry or recognition. Michalke said, “The quote, ‘Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always,’ is why we paint rocks. These painted rocks, regardless of what they look like, what they say or who made them, are little hugs or little “pick me ups“ to each person who finds them. They just make you feel good and might help someone get through a hard day or a hard season in their life.” This is especially true now when many of us can feel lost or miss people who we haven’t been able to see, so next time you are safely out and about, look around more often because you never know what type of connection might just be “hiding” in plain sight. Now join the La Grange “Rocks”! Facebook page to see why La Grange really rocks!
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Photo by April Pizana
Round Top Junk Gypsies
Round Top is well-known for interesting events. Round
Round Top Cham ber of Commerce and To urist Center
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 is 91.
tte County uty in Faye
bea Real Estate
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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
Longhorns roam outside the Wander Inn
Photo by April Pizana
Henkel Hall Square
Royers Pies
“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 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Round Top PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY
EVENTS OCTOBER
Fall Antiques Show October 15-November 1 Houston Brass Band at Festival Hill October 17 9th Annual OktoBierFest October 24
NOVEMBER
Library Fundraiser and Valentine's Day Concert at Festival Hill February 13
MARCH
James Dick Piano Recital at Festival Hill March 13 26th Annual Herbal Forum and Plant Sale March 19-20
RESTAURANTS
Fall Antiques Show October 15-November 1
Lulu’s 204 East Mill St.
Round Top Wine Fest November 6-8
Mandito’s 102 South Washington St.
23rd Annual Theatre Forum at Round Top November 6-8
Paw Paw’s Firehouse Cafe Chelsea’s Meadow 2290 South Highway 237
Violinist Rodrigues & Pianist Nguyen Duo Concert at Festival Hill November 21
DECEMBER
Round Top Lighted Christmas Parade & Street Dance December 5 Nutcracker Ballet at Festival Hill December 12 Christmas at WinedaleFolklife Event December 12 Round Top Rifle Association’s New Year’s Eve Dance December 31
JANUARY
Organist Linda Patterson at Festival Hill January 1 Marimbist Thomas Burritt at Festival Hill January 30
FEBRUARY
Mollie B & Squeezebox perform at Round Top Rifle Hall February 7
Popi Burger 104 North Washington St. Round Top Coffee Shop 111 West Wantke St. Round Top Mercantile 438 North Washington St. Royers Pie Haven 190 Henkel Circle Royers Round Top Cafe 105 Main St. The Garden Co. Feed & Firewater 104 West Wantke Rd. The Stone Cellar Pub & Round Top Dance Hall 550 North Washington St. Teague’s Tavern 105 North Live Oak St.
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Nearby Warrenton Grocery Store 4309 Texas 237 Warrenton
Dragonfly Ranch 524 FM 954
LODGING
Elisa’s Sunday Haus 611 Bybee Rd.
1852 Texas Historical House 301 South Washington St.
Farmhouse Round Top 5686 FM-1457
304 On The Hill 304 West Mill St.
Farmstead 219 FM 954
A Light Unto My Path 2195 FM 1457
Festival Hill Lodging 248 Jaster Rd.
Abbie’s Addition RV Park & Guest Cottage 2336 South Highway 237
Flophouze Hotel 1132 West FM 1291
Armandos Round Top Houses 304 South White St. Bediko’s International Retreat 475 West FM 1291 Belle of Round Top 230 Days End Ln. Big Sky Barndominium 1919 Rohde Rd. Black Dog Cabins 3643 Noak Rd.
Good Haus Cottage 4749 South Highway 237 Green Acres Bed & Breakfast 6621 FM 1457 Hillcrest Inn 4339 South State Highway 237 Lone Star Farm 2218 Hartfield Road Rancho Pillow 11222 Schuster Rd.
Cot-N-Coffee at Walhalla 1724 West FM 1291
Rocky Creek Farms Barndominium 1530 Kneip Rd.
Coyote Station Lodging 701 North Highway 237
Rose Inn Round Top 116 North White St.
Crazy Cow Ranch Marburger Ln.
Round Top Inn 407 South White St.
Dippel’s RV Park 702 Rohde Rd.
Round Top’s Little Colony 2250 Hartfield Rd.
Dragonfly Cottages & RV 4100 FM 2714
Round Top RV Park 601 North Washington St.
Ten Oaks Round Top 509 North Live Oak St. The Arbors 1503 North Hwy 237 The Blue Moon Cottage 151 Floyd Ln. The Cottages on Mill Creek 5696 Wagner Rd. The Creek at Round Top 3142 FM 1457 The Frenchie 311 North Live Oak St. The Ghost Haus 700 Rohde Rd. 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 The Ridge at Round Top 125 Huenefeld Ln. Wanda’s Haus 203 Bauer Rummel Rd. Wander Inn 1215 Highway 237 Wellspring Retreat 580 North Washington St. Windmill Ranch Retreat 740 Schmidt Ln. Nearby Alpen Haus 8116 Bauer Rd. Oldenburg, Texas 78940 Lone Star Glamp Inn 4212 South Highway 237 Warrenton, TX 78961
CHURCHES BAPTIST
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
FESTIVALS
Fall Antiques Show October 15-November 1 It's the fall edition of the worldfamous Round Top Antiques Show. Shop the more than 100 antique venues across Round Top, Carmine, Burton, Warrenton and Winedale area. It is nationally recognized as one of the largest antique markets in America, drawing thousands of dealers to tents, fields, and buildings. OktoBierFest October 24 An annual event showcasing German tradition at its finest. Hosted by the Round Top Schützen Verein at the historic Round Top Rifle Hall, the allday event will feature German food, German music, and of course, German biers.
Round Top Wine Fest November 6-8 The Round Top Wine Fest is three incredible days of sipping, shopping, savoring and celebrating in the town that’s big-time small. Stop in and experience Round Top right. Cheers!
Round Top
Stay in Round Top 2260 Harfield Rd.
Due to coronavirus all events, places to eat & stay, churches, and festivals may be cancelled, postponed, or organized differently.
Log Cabin Lawyer
Waldeck Lutheran Waldeck Worship 8 a.m. Sunday School 9:15 a.m. (979) 249-3802
PENTECOST
Crusade For Souls Ministry 5911 Wynne Ln. in Walhalla Worship noon 1st & 3rd Sun. 249-3874
OTHERS
City of Refuge Holiness Church 437 North Washington www.cityofrefuge.org 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
Norman T. Reynolds Law practice includes wills, trusts, probate, real estate, oil & gas, litigation, business acquisitions and formations.
713.503.9411
186 Henkel Circle P.O. Box 246 Henkel Square Market Round Top, Texas 78954
nreynolds@ntrlawfirm.com
www.ntrlawfirm.com
Norman T. Reynolds Law Firm P.C.
2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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.
Round Top's
150th Celebration CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND AND 150 YEARS OF ROUND TOP HISTORY IN 2021
R
ROUND TOP, TX— Although the Round Top Sesquicentennial Committee, Town Council, and Volunteers have been tirelessly planning for months to host the town’s 150th Anniversary. The event has formally been rescheduled to May 8, 2021 to ensure the health and well-being of all involved. Currently, all celebratory activities are expected to remain the same, although there may be some minor adjustments as needed in the future. The Sesquicentennial Committee hopes that
Celeb
with better conditions all-around, guests will be enticed
r at i n
g 150 Year
to spend Mother’s Day Weekend in Round Top creating memories of community spirit and family-friendly recreation. “We are excited about the new date of May 8th and look forward to celebrating Round Top with family and friends! We hope that rescheduling to Mother’s Day Weekend will prove to be a great opportunity to welcome locals and visitors to join in on the celebration of our culturally-rich town while also building memories with multiple generations of family members.” said Amy Bone, Co-Chair of Round Top’s Sesquicentennial Committee.
The Rou nd Top F estival I Antique nstit s Fa Local Ch ir, The Early Da ute ys ur The Mag ches and Schools ic of Mem ories
PICK UP YOUR COPY OF ROUND TOP NEXT STOP - CELEBRATING 150 YEARS!
44 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
s
.
Round Top
Farmhouses ~ Sunsets ~ Firepits Let Us Help You Create Your Forever Memories
BRENHAM | 909 Happy Hollow | 7.8 Acres | 3BD/3BA | Game Room | Pool | Outdoor Kitchen |$799,000
BRENHAM | 3300 FM 390 E | 32 Acres | 4 Cross Fenced Pastures | 1BD/1BA Mfg Home | Arenas | Barns | $750,000
LA GRANGE | 7750 S Hwy 77 | 44.5 Acres | 3BD/3BA | Pond | Large Porches | Shop/Barn | Carport | $599,000
CARMINE | 103 Hwy 237 | 2 Acres | 3BD/2BA | Formal Dining | Fireplace | Game Room | Large Pecan Trees | $559,000
FAYETTEVILLE | 6522 Prihoda | 38.24 Acres | 1BD/1BA Micro House | Pond | Panoramic Views | 15 Minutes to Round Top | $399,000
101 Main St Round Top,TX
www.roundtoprealestate.com 979.249.5732
103 N Main St La Grange,TX
James Dick in Bluebonnet field.
Festival Hill T
THE MUSIC PLAYS ON
The lilting calls of cave swallows in residence in the eaves of the Concert Hall roof are the only music that is heard most days at Festival Hill. Usually over the summer there are over one hundred young musicians, conductors and faculty members on campus. The grounds bustling with students heading to meals, practicing under oak trees and hurrying to Concert Hall rehearsals. The postponed Festival and performances have left a quiet spot on the Hill .... but wait, is that James Dick at the piano? Music must go on and the Round Top Festival Institute has been reinventing itself to online , YouTube and video performances. It all started this past March with a concert piano in a bluebonnet field and James Dick, Round Top Festival Institute Founder and Artistic Director, performing the Edward Grieg Nocturne Op. 54/4. It was one of the first pieces James Dick performed at the summer festival in 1976. The video "Texas Bluebonnets Grieg Nocturne" can be found on the following link https://youtu.be/tQwekFsQkK8. On June 18, 2020, James Dick recorded live on the stage of the Festival Concert Hall the Beethoven Sonata No. 8 in C, "Pathetique", to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the composer. That performance can be seen at https://youtu.be/_F92gt3P5Xc. As part of Austin's KMFA's ongoing effort to highlight the work of their arts partners during this pandemic, they introduced "Live at Round Top", a six-week series of broadcasts showcasing the finest performances by 2019 Round Top Summer Festival Institute faculty and young artists. https://www.kmfa.org/programs/54-kmfa-live-at-round-top The radio show "Encore Houston" – Houston Public Media - broadcast on June 28th also included recorded performances of the 2019 Round Top Music Festival. On July 1st, American Public
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Media's radio show "Performance Today" broadcast nationally the 2017 Sergei Rachmaninoff: Symphony No.2 in E, Op. 27: Movement 1 with the Texas Festival Orchestra led by Conductor Perry So. Many of the young artist who receive scholarships to the Round Top Festival Institute were self-quarantined this summer in states like New York and California. Not able to perform or attend other workshops some of the 2020 faculty members set up online virtual master classes for the accepted Festival musicians. Nancy Ambrose King, oboist, is currently the Professor of Oboe at the University of Michigan. She is on the faculty of the Sarasota and Round Top Music Festivals. Ms. King gave an internet master class to the accepted young artists: Jamison Hillian (Curtis Institute), Jasper Iguse ( San Francisco Conservatory of Music), Jeehoon Kim ( Eastman School) and Laura Yawney (Chicago Civic Orchestra). Nancy will be welcomed back at Round Top in June 2021. The second master class was conducted by 2020 Faculty Drew Pattison. Drew has held the position of Principal Bassoon with the Elgin and Lake Forest, Illinois symphonies and second bassoon in the Houston Opera. He has also performed with the Chicago Symphony, Lyric Opera, Joffrey Ballet/Chicago Philharmonic, and many other groups in the Chicago area. You can enjoy his musings on sound and bassoon on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/drewbsn87/videos On July 2, Tomas Cotik, violinist, presented a session, in which he discussed the contradictions between the opposing trends and traditions in Bach interpretation, and some personal solutions to them. The session included a discussion about the bow, sound,
Round Top
articulation, string crossings, slurs, dynamics, intonation, vibrato, ornaments, trills, tempo rubato, and more. Hailed by Michael Tilson Thomas as “an excellent violinist,” Tomas Cotik is internationally recognized as a soloist, chamber musician, and professor. Committed to both performing and teaching, Dr. Tomas Cotik is the violin professor at Portland State University, where he recently received the inaugural Dean’s Council Award For Research, Scholarship & Creativity. Prior to this, he was part of the faculty of West Texas A&M University. Jason Shafer, clarinetist was on Facebook Live with the young artist selected for that instrument on July 13, from 6:00 pm to 7:15 pm. Jason is the Principal Clarinet with the Colorado Symphony in Denver James Dick recorded Six short Essays for piano by Ulysses Kay and it is on YouTube, https://youtu.be/WcFwLPNyewk. In 1973, African - American composer Ulysses Kay was invited to be one of the first composers-in-residence at Round Top Festival Institute.
Blithe Spirit
A nephew of the New Orleans jazz trumpeter King Oliver , Kay played jazz saxophone as a boy and later turned to piano, violin, and composition. After receiving his B.A. at the University of Arizona, he studied at the Eastman School of Music and Yale University, and the Berkshire Music Center in Tanglewood, Mass.
NOV 13-15, 2020
James Dick characterized Kay's compositions as "narrative". Ulysses Kay composed approximately 140 musical compositions for orchestra, chorus, chamber ensembles, piano, voice, organ, and band, and he wrote five operas as well as scores for film and television, among them his notable Essay on Death (1964), a tribute to President John F. Kennedy. More live performances are planned... Even though we have to take a hiatus in the Concert Hall, we simply can't stop the music.
A super-naturally spicy comedic hit written by Noel Coward
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FAYCOTHEATRE.COM 979-968-3017 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Round Top Antiques Show
Antiques Show YES! FALL 2020 SHOWS
Antiques Marburger Farm
48 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
Antiques abound
T
Round Top
The Fall 2020 antiques show has been rescheduled to Oct. 15-Nov. 1. Show organizers, vendors and landowners have been in close communication with county and city officials; the Fayette County Office of Emergency Management will monitor the ever-evolving situation closely for any future actions to be taken. The action is aimed at positioning the event for safety and success – and potentially reducing the likelihood it will be canceled. Local officials, including the county judge, mayors and community leaders are aware of the amount of planning and effort it takes to organize each show. In light of the spring show being cancelled, the extra attention this fall is aimed at achieving a safe environment should the event take place. All will work closely with local, regional and state public health experts to evaluate the data and the capability of local healthcare providers.
The Junk Gypsies in action Photo by April Pizana
With a long-standing history, each show venue is individually owned and operated – and sets its own open and close dates in the spring and fall. In a spirit of collaboration, venues have agreed to adopt enhanced health standards for their individual shows to include mandatory masks for shoppers and dealers when social distancing cannot be achieved; shopping set up to ease the ability to remain socially distant; capacity limits according to state standards at the time; and enhanced hand-sanitizing facilities.
Marburger Fa rms
“We believe, with the support of local venues and our year-round businesses, we can create a safe and health-focused shopping atmosphere,” says Barry Bone, Town of Round Top mayor. “We appreciate the keen attention our antiques show promoters are contributing to ensure their dealers and customers are aware of the expectations for safety and to enjoy the 52nd edition of this worldfamous event. In addition, the average temperature drops about 8 degrees F from the first of October to the end.” The show itself stretches 20-plus miles, largely along State Highway 237 in Fayette County. The majority of the venues are in open-air buildings and barns and temporary tents. Venues with enclosed areas will have enhanced procedures to provide for healthy shopping and dining. Venues (those without year-round operations) participating include (at time of release:)
BADER RANCH
EXCESS I & II
BAR W FIELD
GRANNY MCCORMICK’S YARD
BIG RED BARN & THE CONTINENTAL TENT BLUE HILLS THE CAMPBELL BUILDING COLE’S ANTIQUES THE COMPOUND COUNTY LINE NORTH
Junk Gypsy he in Round To adquarters p
Pizana
DYD
Photo by April
THE ARBORS
LONE STAR GALLERY MARBURGER FARM ANTIQUE SHOW THE MARKETPLACE WARRENTON THE VENUE
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Carmine Gateway to antiques
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 is 258.
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Carmine Antiques
Lumber Yard Antiques Mall owners
TO CARMINE
MAYOR LETTER
Wecome 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 258 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 Depot
The Village Market in Carmine
“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 EVENTS
Pecan Grove Inn 233 Augsburg St.
Fall Antiques Show October 15-November 1
Prairie Wind Farm 4507 Havemann Rd.
OCTOBER
Carmine Night Out October 15 Martin Luther Lutheran Church Harvest Festival October 18
NOVEMBER Fall Antiques Show October 15-November 1
DECEMBER The “Polar Express” Christmas Fest December 6
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
LODGING
Reindeer Ranch at Round Top 1000 Deer Haven Rd. River Oaks Farms at Round Top 2156 Highway 237 Rocking Horse Retreat 2655 Homeyer Mountain Rd. Solid Rock Ranch 1324 Schoenberg Rd. The Bunkhouse 12330 Young Circle The Front Porch 12135 Young Circle The Vintage Hideaway 3820 Schoenst Rd. Nearby Double Tree Ranch 5849 West FM 129 Ledbetter, TX 78946
Busted Oak Ranch 6195 Round Top Rd.
Ideker’s Country House 340 Greens Creek Road Ledbetter, TX 78946
Cala Lily 215 North Hauptstrasse St.
Little Oaks Lodging 7908 Goehring Road Ledbetter, TX 78946
Carmine Coop 1318 Spur 458
Stable House at Ledbetter 1365 FM 180 Ledbetter, TX 78946
Cottages on Cedar Creek 1040 Carmine Cemetery Rd.
CHURCHES
Dixieland RV Park Campground 249 Dixieland RV Park Ln. Falcon Hill 7615 Kieke Rd.
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LUTHERAN
Martin Luther Lutheran 211 Luther Ln. Saturday Worship 6 p.m. Sunday School 9 a.m. Worship 10 a.m. www.mllccarmine.com (979) 278-3388
2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
Waldeck Lutheran Waldeck Worship 8a.m. Sunday School 9:15a.m. (979) 249-3802
EVENTS Fall Antiques Show October 15-November 1 It's the fall edition of the world-famous Round Top Antiques Show. Shop the more than 100 antique venues across Round Top, Carmine, Burton, Warrenton and Winedale area. It is nationally recognized as one of the largest antique markets in America, drawing thousands of dealers to tents, fields, and buildings. Martin Luther Lutheran Church Harvest Festival October 18 Worship and dine with the family at the Carmine Hall which is located at 300 N. Hauptstrasse St. They will be serving their traditional kettle-fried chicken with side dishes. There will be a live and silent auction along with children’s activities. Come and enjoy the season! The “Polar Express” Christmas Fest December 6 Carmine Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Carmine Christmas Fest at the Carmine Hall. This year’s theme is “Polar Express” with lots of activities for children. They can “ride” in the “Polar Express” and visit with Santa. Enjoy kettle-cooked beef stew or eat an old-fashioned hamburger & chips. Shop for unique and exciting Christmas gifts at the many special booths & bid at the silent auction. Due to coronavirus all events, places to eat & stay, churches, and festivals may be cancelled, postponed, or organized differently.
CARMINE
Swirling a glass, taking a deep inhale, absorbing years of perfect aging, recording the perfect notes as they dance across your palate. Whether a seasoned connoisseur or an admiring novice, one taste of Kooper Whiskey’s pours and the conclusions are the same—this drink has a little something extra. That something is the heart of Troy and Michelle Kooper, a Texas-loving couple that whisked their way into the world of blending and took Texas by storm.
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CARMINE
Troy and Michelle Kooper find their niche opening a whiskey blending house Written by Kirsten Cornell Photography by Lindsey Fojtik
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The Perfect Recipe
Flexing his creative muscles in advertising, Troy was beginning to feel the push to transition to a more family-focused lifestyle. “After our son was born, I felt the strain of travel and long hours,” Troy recalls. “I enjoyed my work but rarely received a project that had strong personal ties.” For Michelle, who worked heavily in the non-profit sector leaving the workforce meant relying on their vision and fully trusting her husband’s abilities. “He’s an incredibly talented and gifted individual,” she shares. “I had to trust him completely, or we could never have made this dream work.” Austinites at the time, the Koopers had lept whole-heartedly into sustainable living. They began sourcing some of their food and experimenting with recipes for homemade products such as detergent and toothpaste. “At some point, you just concede that it’s easier to just buy toothpaste,” Troy laughs. “But when we thought about whiskey it was like, well why not? It’s just a recipe—albeit a more complicated one.” The gauntlet was thrown. Admirers became students and consumed all they could on the subject, even building their equipment. “I remember going to the supermarket and buying them out of rye,” laughs Michelle. “It wasn’t as popular then so we were making everything ourselves, including building a still.” It would be many pours and six more years before Troy would leave his full-time position to be completely dedicated to what is now Kooper Family Whiskey Company.
Sudden Pivot
Through the process of essentially teaching themselves and building their own blending house from the barrel up, the eyeopening moment for Michelle was after they made their first cut that embodied everything they appreciated about the distilled spirit. “The taste, color, and smell were all there,” Michelle says. “I knew that if we could do this not really having any professional instruments…I was a true believer. I had the evidence right in front of me.” Troy agrees, “The sensory ability is the scariest part because that is subjective. But for us, we believed we had the abilities there. We started to think, ‘Wow, we could do this.’” The Koopers soon found themselves in the dog-eat-dog world of beverage consumption. While whiskey blending houses were an unchartered territory in Texas, liquor certainly was not. “We were pitching ourselves as this homegrown, family-run business and they wanted millions of dollars in sales,” recalls Michelle. With drawn-out plans of a full-scale distillery and barrels upon barrels of product, the Koopers soon realized they would be asked to sacrifice quality for quantity. “Whiskey is something that takes time,” explains Troy. “It spends years going through the distilling process, aging, and blending.” They were unwilling to dispense young whiskey for the sake of quick turn. Their business plan took a sudden pivot. The couple decided to purchase un-aged whiskey and took advantage of the location,
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CARMINE
letting the Texas climate age their barrels before they began the blending process. “In retrospect, the investors turning us down was the best thing to ever happen to our business,” says Troy. “It wasn’t our original plan, but has worked far better for us.”
Best Little Secret
Becoming the best little blending house in Texas didn’t happen overnight. As the couple marketed their business across Austin and filtered into large markets such as Houston and Dallas, they began to consider the need for a central move. Enter Fayette County. “I honestly can’t imagine having created this business anywhere else,” says Troy. “The environment here is incredibly supportive of businesses and family in general.” Now building their business in Ledbetter, the Koopers were able to travel more easily between districts and create their beloved Tasting Room. “It’s a shock to your system that this little place even exists,” says Michelle excitedly. “When people enter our Tasting Room they are intrigued by the décor, enchanted with smells, and romanced by the lighting—then they get to meet us and talk about whiskey!” Deeply entrenched in the education and history behind their product, the Koopers enjoy nothing more than sharing a glass with their patrons and discussing their craft. “We can talk about it all day,” laughs Troy. “We hope when they leave here they appreciate a good product made by good people.”
Barrel to Blend
But before a glass of Prodigal Son ever hits the tasting room floor, it goes through a meticulous blending process compounded with extraordinarily dedicated entrepreneurs. Working alongside a distillery in Kentucky, the unaged whiskey is brought to Fayette County to take the next steps in its journey. Naturally, they begin with choosing quality oak to age and finish their whiskeys in. From air-seasoned American oak from Missouri and Kentucky that provide a depth of texture—to seasoned second use barrels of various wines, fortified wines, and spirits from around the world, the flavor starts here. “You’d be amazed at the difference wood makes. We source the best quality tight-grained oak for our whiskey barrels,” adds Troy. As most Texans fighting the heat will tell you, average temperatures in Central Texas reach about 96 degrees during the summer. For the rest of the year, the climate is often moody and unreasonable. While it makes it difficult for people to plan what to wear, those wild fluctuations and extreme summer temperatures cause the whiskey to breathe in and out of the wood and draw out deeper and deeper flavors, colors, and compounds as the years pass. “It’s not easy maturing whiskey in the extreme Texas climate,” Michelle comments. “But if you work carefully with the natural advantages that Texas provides, it’s the best place on Earth to do it.” The Koopers draw on an almost infinite number of flavors and aromas to compose their masterpieces. Just as they select whiskey barrels based on flavor profiles, fragrances, and maturity, they define proportions by seeking complementary marriages of flavors and consistency. “We blend the chosen barrels in small batches before returning the mixture to select used oak casks to marry and reach even deeper layers of balance,” explains Troy.
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They credit their years of being whiskey fans for their experienced palates. “At the end of the day, barrels age at different rates and blend differently together. It’s all about the flavor and taste in your glass,” says Troy. “From the smell to the first taste opening up my palate, tasting the different notes and nuttiness—not the alcohol but the true nuance of flavors. That’s how you know you have a good whiskey,” adds Michelle. “It is something you are sipping, spending some time with it. You want it to be pleasant.”
Building Dreams
From their impassioned speech to their ear-to-ear grins, even a novice can tell that the Koopers love what they do—and for whom they are making it. The freedom the Koopers now have to focus on their business and their family is not lost on them. “We are blessed and so grateful to be where we are,” says Troy. “This environment here is one that money can’t buy.” Frequenters of the July Fourth parade in Round Top, Cotton Gin Festival, and various Main Street parades, the Koopers appreciate the cultural experience in which they are raising their children. Highly involved in auctions, school donations, and partnering with local businesses, they note that it is important to also invest in their community. “There are lots of great causes and ways to help the community. We’re proud to be a part of it,” says Michelle. Although putting Texas whiskey on the map is a worthy goal, it is not the highest compliment Troy has received. “Our children are a huge part of this with us,” he says. “What’s infinitely more meaningful is when we hear, ‘You guys are teaching your kids something invaluable. They are watching their parents work hard and build dreams.’”
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Flatonia Flatonia Lyric Theater
Flatonia Czhilispiel
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 1,461 in 2019.
Murals on
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t Main Stree
MAYOR LETTER
Welcome TO FLATONIA
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 opened 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
Praha Veterans Day Service
Southern Pacific Caboose
Rhinestone Angel
“We are very proud of our park areas and opened a splash pad in our Mulberry Creek Connector park near the current City Pool in McWhirter Park this year.� - Mayor Bryan Milson 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
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Flatonia
PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS
Dairy Queen 605 North La Grange St.
Flatonia RV Ranch 2055 Farm to Market Rd 609
Czhilispel 48 Golf Tournament October 24
NOVEMBER
Jamie’s Cafe 1500 East US Highway 90
Goose’s Roost Ranch Cottages 815 Scott’s School Road
E. A. Arnim Archives & Museum Stew Dinner Fundraiser Social & Play November 7
Joel’s Bar-B-Q FM 609 & Interstate 10
Olle Hotel 218 South Market Street
Rail Fan Pavilion Party November 7
DECEMBER
Josesitos Mexican Grill 507 East Interstate 10 Frontage Rd.
The Ranch Retreat 1826 County Road 283
Flatonia Chamber of Commerce Christmas Village Lighting & Santa at Gazebo December 1
McDonald’s 709 North La Grange St.
Sunset Inn 420 East Interstate 10 Frontage Road
Flatonia Chamber of Commerce Wonderful Winter Wine Walk December 4
Olde Town Tea Room & Bakery 625 North La Grange St.
Town Cottages 705 East North Main Street
Merry Market Vendors’ Cookie & Candy Carnival with Santa & Photos December 5
Red Vault Bistro 124 East South Main St.
BAPTIST
Relay for Life Breakfast Tacos Kick-Off at the Civic Center January 9
Robert’s Steakhouse 1241 N TX-95
Flatonia FFA & 4H Stock Show & Sale January 14-16
Sonic Drive-In 1415 FM 609
FEBRUARY
Subway 230 East Interstate 10 Frontage Rd.
OCTOBER
Czhilispel 48 Pageant October 10
JANUARY
Flatonia Golf Association “Fandango” at the Flatonia American Legion Hall February 20
MARCH
Flatonia Chamber of Commerce Parade of Quilts March 1-31 Flatonia Chamber of Commerce Market Day with Texas Independence Relay March 27
RESTAURANTS
Amigos Country Corner 1415 FM 609 Cowgirl Provisions 116 East South Main St.
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The Market 116 W North Main St. Wine Haus 110 West North Main St. Nearby Cistern Country Store 12604 North State Hwy 95
LODGING
Best Western Plus Flatonia Inn 310 B East Hwy, Interstate 10 Frontage Road Carefree Inn 718 North La Grange Street
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CHURCHES
Flatonia Baptist 225 E. 6th St. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. www.flatoniabaptist.org (361) 865-3813 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
METHODIST First United Methodist 403 E. North Main St. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. www.flatoniaumc.org (361) 865-2622 Living World Ministries Muldoon Worship 10 a.m. & Wed. 7:30 p.m.
Š2020 The Fayette County Record
St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Praha Sat. Mass 4:30 p.m. & Sun. Mass 8 a.m. www.stmaryspraha.org (361) 596-4674
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.
FESTIVALS
Czhilispel
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 Czech spelling and the German word “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.
Flatonia
E. A. Arnim
Sts. Cyril & Methodius, Cistern Sun. Mass 8 a.m. www.shsscm.org (361) 865-3568
361-865-3455 or arnimmuseum@att.net 101 E. North Main St., Flatonia, Texas •www.arnimmuseum.org
*The Czhilispel 48 Pagent (Oct. 10) and Golf Tournament (Oct. 24) will still be held, but unfortunately, because of the coronavirus, all other Czhilispel 48 events have been cancelled.
Due to coronavirus all events, places to eat & stay, churches, and festivals may be cancelled, postponed, or organized differently.
Live Music in a remodeled 1905 Historic Downtown Building Š2020 The Fayette County Record
SPECIALIZE IN TEXAS WINES & COLD BEER
Â? Â? Â?Â?   € ‚ ƒ „ Â… • • •
Serving meals by Chef Kenny Kopecky Thurs - Sat
110 W North Main St., Flatonia For reservations call 361-865-5050
•
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O
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Railroad Museum O
Flatonia
Flatonia BACK ON TRACK
One of the most unique and detailed model train layouts in South Central Texas, if not the entire State, has made its way from Michigan to Flatonia’s downtown Central Texas Rail History Center (CTRHC). The long journey began just prior to the COVID-19 mandatory shutdown of the CTRHC, when Flatonia resident Greg Kadlub returned to his boyhood home in Dansville, Michigan. He carefully began disassembling the G-Scale train layout in his basement that he and his father, Dr. Karl Kadlub created over a period of 25 years. The massive layout measures approximately 8’ x 24’ and is multi-level. The handmade scenery includes an old West town and mountains reaching up to seven feet in height. The display is filled with sound effects throughout. The layout carries four G-Scale locomotives with an assortment of passenger and freight cars. It took Kadlub approximately three weeks to disassemble the layout and transport it to Flatonia. Once home, it was a month-long process to reassemble the trains and tracks and rewire the entire display. All of this took place while the CTRHC was closed during the State’s mandatory shutdown. Now the museum is reopened, and the new layout is running at full speed. The CTRHC is located in Flatonia at 104 South Main Street, across from the Post Office.
OPEN EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY FROM 10:00 A.M. – NOON AND 1:00-3:00 P.M.
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Holiday Treats
GLADYS' BAKERY STILL SELLING TONS OF FRUITCAKE EVERY HOLIDAY SEASON WRITTEN BY H.H. HOWZE
I
It’s always fruitcake season at Gladys’ Bakery, the famous little bakery which originated in Cistern, but is now located near Ammannsville. Gladys’ Bakery opened for business in Cistern in 1972. Gladys Farek (now Gladys Farley Holub), a mother of six girls, was looking for an outlet for her creative baking talents. Boy howdy did she ever find one. She began with bread and then added cookies, selling to local restaurants in Flatonia, Schulenburg and other Fayette county towns. The Fareks lived on a large farm and hard work was common, both in and out of the kitchen. Soon Gladys was making bread, cookies, pies, jelly and cinnamon rolls. When she decided to try her hand at a fruitcake she combined and altered several recipes until she came up with one that suited her. It was a winner, the first year she mixed everything by hand and sold about 1,000 pounds worth. The next year she bought a cement
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mixer (still in use) and painted it bright red to mix the huge quantity of fruitcake. Gladys told Johnny Carson in an appearance on his show in 1990 that her fruitcakes were “loaded with fresh pecans with just enough batter to hold it all together with no raisins, dates, spices or citron.” She showed off her 150-pound fruitcake in the shape of Texas. The next year she was on David Letterman’s show. Gladys is retired and lives in Moulton, but her daughter Melissa Varley who runs things now said that she still tinkers around with recipes in her home kitchen. Lately its noodles and caramel popcorn. “If you like pecans, you’ll like Gladys’ fruitcake,” said Melissa last season. “We’ve made about 6,000 pounds worth this season but we’re winding down now.” They still make and sell apple strudel, rum cake, pecan (and other pies) and, of course, cookies. These days, most of the business is mail order but some folks still find their way out to the bakery on the Varley ranch on the Weimar-Dubina Road. Visit www.gladysfruitcakes.com to order your holiday goodies today!
Routine Restorative Care • Preventive Care • Cosmetic Dentistry Implant Restorations • One-Day, In-Office CEREC Crowns Oral Sedation • Solea Laser Dentistry Most Insurance Accepted • New Patients Always Welcome
Karen A. Roberts, D.D.S.
Luke Henderson, D.D.S.
279 E. Colorado St., La Grange, TX 78945
(979) 968-9451
Fax (979) 968-8608
www.iluvcornerstone.com
Schulenburg Schulenburg City Museum Schulenburg Festival
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 2,920 in 2019.
emorial Veterans M
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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 Chamber of Commerce
Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum
Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church
“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
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Schulenburg
PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS OCTOBER
Turtle Wing Monster Dash October 17
NOVEMBER
Momma’s at Sengelmann Hall 531 North Main Street
Gathering at Mulberry Creek 5718 Kainer Rd.
Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant 712 US-77
Hattie’s Haus 12020 FM 1383
Schulenburg Wine Walk November 7
PJ Fresh Marketplace 709 US-77
Holiday in the Country Arts & Crafts November 8
Tito’s Cafe 405 Summit Street
Shop Schulenburg Days November 27-December 18
Subway 14 North Kessler Avenue
DECEMBER
Sugar Jim’s 746 US 90
Shop Schulenburg Days November 27-December 18 Santa’s Party in the Park December 4
FEBRUARY
Wine-O-Bingo at the Schulenburg Civic Center February 20
RESTAURANTS
T&T Super Donuts 304 Kessler Ave
The Otto House (Airbnb) The Stopover (Airbnb)
METHODIST
First United Methodist 209 North Upton Ave. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. (979) 743-3333
The Garden Co. Marketplace & Cafe 217 Kessler Avenue
CATHOLIC
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Ammannsville Sun. Mass 9:30 a.m.
St. Paul Presbyterian, Schulenburg 712 Summit St. Adult Bible Study 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. (979) 743-3426
Whataburger 40 North Kessler Avenue
LODGING
Americas Best Value Inn 205 West Interstate 10 Frontage Road
JJ’s Kountry Kitchen 30 East Avenue
Best Western Plus Schulenburg Inn & Suites 101 Huser Boulevard
Kountry Bakery 110 Kessler Avenue
Das Meyer Haus 527 Anderson St.
Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant 104 Kessler Avenue
Executive Inn & Suites 800 US-77
Mi Casita Restaurant 514 Summit Street
Schulenburg RV Park 65 N Kessler Ave,
Freyburg United Methodist 4520 FM 2238 Worship 8:30 a.m. every Sunday www.freyburgumc.org (979) 217-1151
Cinnabon 709 US-77
Lucy Tequilas 50 Kessler Avenue
Middle Creek Place 2301 Demel Rd,
Vintage Texas Charmer (Airbnb)
Tillie’s Cafe 621 North Main Street
Dairy Queen 77 North Kessler Avenue
Klekar-Gin Farm 5921 Klekar-Gin Rd.
Zion Lutheran 103 Keuper Ave. Sunday School 9 a.m. Worship 10 a.m. www.zionschulenburg.org (979) 743-3842
Taco Bell 709 US-77
Auntie Anne’s 709 US-77
City Market Schulenburg 109 Kessler Avenue
Holiday Inn Express & Suites 200 Heinrich Street
LUTHERAN
United Evangelical Lutheran Swiss Alp Worship 9:15 a.m. Sunday School 10:15 a.m. (979) 247-4151
CHURCHES
Sts. Cyril & Methodius Dubina Sun. Mass 8:45 a.m. (979) 725-6715
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 7026 FM 957 www.discovermass.com (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. Farmhouse & Cabin at Freyburg Sat. Mass 5 p.m., Sun. Mass 7:30 a.m. & 10 a.m., Noon Spanish Mass 9291Abbotts Grove School Rd. www.victoriadiocese.org (Cabin) (979) 743-3117 9531 Abbotts Grove School Rd. (Farmhouse)
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PRESBYTERIAN
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 Due to coronavirus all events, places to eat & stay, churches, and festivals may be cancelled, postponed, or organized differently.
PAINTED CHURCHES • HISTORIC architecture • DELICIOUS EATS
Schulenburg COZY LODGING • UNIQUE MUSEUMS • AWARD-WINNING WINErieS
©2020 The Fayette County Record
For tours or more information please call (866) 504-5294 or visit our website www.schulenburgchamber.org
Let Us Fill Your Tank! Schulenburg • Bastrop • Moulton
model aircraft museum Museum Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, & Saturday 10:30am-4:30pm
979.743.6559 www.stanzelmuseum.org
311 Baumgarten Street, Schulenburg, TX
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SCHULENBURG’S BEAUTIFUL
Painted Churches Schulenburg is home to some of the most unique churches in the world
S
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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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
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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.”
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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
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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.
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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.
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Fayetteville Yonder Way Farm Fayetteville Town Square
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 263 in 2018.
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ARTS Programs
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
Oak Thicket Park
Fayetteville High School
Grand Fayette Hotel
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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Fayetteville
PLACES TO EAT, STAY, WORSHIP & PLAY EVENTS
Orsak’s Cafe 121 West Fayette St.
Red & White Inn 102 West Main St.
Arts for Rural Texas’s All Things Texas-Ada Jones Exhibit September 12October 17
The Wine Bar at the Grand Fayette Hotel 201 West Fayette St.
Rolling 7 Guest Cottage 1377 East Highway 159
OCTOBER
Chicken Noodle Soup Lunch & Bake Sale at the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Hall October 11 Arts for Rural Texas’ Autumn Showcase October 24November 28 Halloween on the Square October 31
NOVEMBER
Arts for Rural Texas’ Autumn Showcase October 24November 28 Bingo Night at the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Hall November 14 Good Old Summertime Classic November 15
DECEMBER
28th Annual Polka Fest December 6 ARTS for Rural Texas’ Holiday Show December 12-December 31
JANUARY
Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Chicken Noodle Soup Lunch & Bake Sale at the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Hall January 31
MARCH
Nearby Hruska’s Store & Bakery 109 W TX-71 Ellinger Maria Taqueria 209 W TX-71 Ellinger Peters BBQ 301 W TX-71 Ellinger
LODGING
Swedish Cottage 420 N. Rusk St. The Tipton Cottage 8235 FM 2981 Vitkova’s Veranda 575 East Franklin St.
Blue Bunk House 821 FM 954
Westview Ranch and Retreat 1060 Brushy Rd.
Caesura Cottage 6950 Skull Creek Rd.
Nearby Blackbird Farm Cabins 1488 FM 2503, Ellinger
Cottages on The Square 110 W. Main Fayette County Hills RV & Boat Storage 800 North Rusk Grand Fayette Hotel 201 West Fayette St. Granny’s Retreat 3506 Skalitsky Rd. Gray Rooster Guest House 422 Shumacher Rd. Joy’s Country Cottage 2836 Ehlinger-Becker Rd. Market Street Inn 101 E. Market St.
RESTAURANTS
Orsak’s B&B 126 North Washington St.
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Stagecoach Cabins 7344 FM 1291
A Place to Stay at Round Top 9575 FM 389
Antiques on the Square March 24-28 Joe’s Place 120 North Live Oak St.
Saddle Creek Cabins 9549 FM 389
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CHURCHES
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 www.stjohnfayetteville.com (979) 378-2277 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
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.
SHARED LUTHERAN
Shared Lutheran Ministry of Fayette County St. John in Ellinger 110 W. Fayette St., Ellinger 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
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
FESTIVALS
Polka Fest December 6 The annual Polka Fest at the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce hall is a celebration following Mass filled with food, fun, and of course Czech music and dancing. Stop by the great small town of Ellinger and experience it the right way...the Polka way! Due to coronavirus all events, places to eat & stay, churches, and festivals may be cancelled, postponed, or organized differently.
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The Diggs Real Estate Team 1824 State Hwy 159 La Grange, TX 979-968-6143 www.Diggsrealestate.com 2020 FALL/WINTER VISITORS GUIDE
79
ARTS for Rural Texas
Artists & Art-Lovers Flock to Fayetteville A A CENTER FOR THE ARTS
ARTS for Rural Texas is the heart and soul of the cultural scene
in Fayetteville. ARTS, a non-profit organization, conducts school
programs, holds outreach programs, and maintains an art gallery. The organization is widely acclaimed for its Art After School and Summer Art Camps for children, as well as offering a wide array of Adult Art & Lecture Programs. Outreach programs are offered across the county and into the surrounding counties including
Houston Opera to Go, singer-songwriters seminars, and theatrical
For more information, go to their website at www.artsforruraltexas.org.
Fayetteville’s ArtWalk, sponsored by Arts for Rural Texas, is a
popular yearly event held in the first week of May with over 60 artists, a wine tasting, and food vendors. Local, regional, and national artists display their work under the trees on Fayetteville’s Historic Square. There is a schedule of performing musicians and
productions.
children’s art instruction and activities. There are events for children,
ARTS was founded in 2003 by a group of concerned Fayetteville
Over $6,000 in award money is given to the artists selected by a
residents who recognized that art education was lacking in the local, rural schools. They understood that any opportunity for the area children to learn about and be exposed to the visual and performing arts would only happen if the arts were brought to the local communities. Almost 18 years later, ARTS boasts programs and services in six school districts, four private schools, and two community centers in Fayette and Colorado counties.
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and the local high school has a booth that offers unique projects. panel of judges. Visitors from Houston, Austin, and San Antonio make the short drive to this charming small town, located in the gentle, rolling hills of south central Texas, for a delightful “open air” weekend. More information on ArtWalk can be found at www.artsforruraltexas.org.
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LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? Reserve your spot in the 2021 Visitors Guide.
4 Peas Resell........................................................................33 Andrea Schutter-Riebeling...........................................83 ARTS for Rural Texas..........................................................2 Blissful Folly Farm............................................................36 Blue Mule Winery...............................................................79 Brawley Dental Clinic, PLLC.........................................37 Budget Blinds.......................................................................57 Busted Oak Cellars..........................................................84 Capital Farm Credit..........................................................19 Compass Country Properties.......................................15 Corner Stone Dental.......................................................67 Diggs Real Estate..............................................................79 E.A. Arnim Archives & Museum...................................63
2020 FALL/WINTER
WELCOME TO
FAYETTE COUNTY
ECO Residential & Commercial Services, LLC.....14 Fayette County Community Theatre......................47 Hatfield Dental Clinic, PC.............................................33 Hruska's...................................................................................4 Junk Gypsy.............................................................................3
Places to
eat, stay, worship & play
Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill.........................23 La Grange Visitors Center.............................................31 Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe..........................................36 Norman T. Reynolds........................................................43 Pop A Top.............................................................................22 Richard Schmidt Jewelry Design................................11 Rosemary's Vineyard & Winery.................................23
Richard Schmidt Jewelry Design LOCAL ARTISANS RICHARD AND JANET SCHMIDT SHARE THEIR HOMEGROWN SUCCESS STORY
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF
LA GRANGE • ROUND TOP • CARMINE • FLATONIA • SCHULENBURG • FAYETTEVILLE
Round Top Real Estate....................................................45 Schulenburg Historical Museum................................19 Schulenburg Regency Retirement Community..................................................75 Stanzel Museum..................................................................71 Studio 94 Photography...................................................18 Tejas Health Care.............................................................53 Tex Propane...........................................................................71 Texas Czech Heritage & Cultural Center..............23 Texas Heroes Museum.....................................................14 Texas Independence Wine Trail..................................19 Texas Irrigation & Pipe LLC..........................................14 Texas Polka News.............................................................79 The Fayette County Record.....................59, 63 & 82
YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER, TWICE EVERY WEEK
979.968.3155
127 S. Washington St. | La Grange www.FayetteCountyRecord.com
The Greater Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce..................................................71 The Jersey Barnyard......................................................36 The Oak Motel....................................................................33 Vincent's Roofing..............................................................33 Wander Inn............................................................................3 Weikel's Bakery...................................................................57 Weise Farms........................................................................79 White Box II..........................................................................14 Wine Haus............................................................................63
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