Welcome to Madisonville Visitors Guide 2020-2021

Welcome to

Madisonville 2020

Visitors Guide

2021

A PUBLICATION OF

MARI’s mission includes the improvement and revitalization of the Madisonville area through beautification, heritage preservation, education, enhancement of cultural awareness, appreciation and participation.

The goal is to help Madisonville become a community which is an attractive destination for tourists, a place where newcomers desire to relocate, a venue for enjoyment and entertainment for area residents and an area worthy of the pride of its citizens.

2020 Officers: President - Sharon Phelps Vice President - Tammy Hoke Treasurer - Zoraida Armenta Secretary - Patty Lancaster Madisonville Area Revitalization Initiative PO Box 445 • Madisonville, TX 77864 Telephone: 979-229-8342 • Email: maridowntown@gmail.com 2 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020 Website: madisonvillemari.org

A NOTE FROM THE MAYOR Madisonville is a laid-back town that’s perfect for unwinding and de-stressing. With fewer than 5,000 residents, you will never have to contend with big-city lines or traffic, regardless of what you decide to do.

Known as “The Mushroom Capital of Texas,” Madisonville is a lively community about 40 miles northeast of College Station. When you visit, you’ll find charming lodging, lovely outdoor venues, down-home eateries and friendly locals welcoming you to explore and enjoy their city.

The City of Madisonville is a community that is beautiful, rich in history, culturally diverse, affordable and safe. Our citizen’s come together to improve the standard of living and quality of life; working together and taking care of each other.

Whether you’re golfing, fishing or wandering around town, Madisonville is a refreshing retreat from the big city. Visit soon and see what you’ve been missing.

William Parton Mayor, City of Madisonville

WHATS ON THE COVER?

The Madisonville water tower watches over the city and provides water for nearly 5,000 residents.

Madisonville Welcome to

PUBLISHER The Huntsville Item 1409 10th Street Huntsville, TX., 77320 936.295.5407

PUBLISHER Jake Mienk jmienk@itemonline.com EDITOR/ PAGINATION Joseph Brown jbrown@itemonline.com ADVERTISING Tammy Farkas Ashley Willoughby Meaghan Gustavus COURTESY PHOTOS Texas Historical Commission Texas Department of Transportation Our Little Ranch Photography Southern Charm Photography Buc-ee’s Texas Skydiving Company Kyle Rogers City of Madisonville

LET’S SOCIALIZE fl @cityofmadisonville

Madisonville City Hall 210 W. Cottonwood Madisonville, TX, 77864 936-348-2748 www.madisonvilletexas.us Visitor & Convention Center 113 W. Trinity Street Madisonville, TX, 77864 936-348-9333 www.visitmadisonville.org Welcome to Madisonville is published by The Huntsville Item and CNHI LLC. All rights reserved. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice, but is considered informative.

A TOWN ON THE RISE The Madisonville City Council conducts the business of the city. Pictured from left, are Jessie Jaenicke, Chris McGilbra, Mayor Pro-Tem Russell Bailey, Mayor Bill Parten, Lois Brown and Bradly Taylor.

Welcome to Madisonville 2020 | 3

City of Madisonville Play at Lake Madison – At 75 acres, Lake Madison may not be the largest lake in Texas. However, it does offer more than its fair share of things to do in and around the water. The lake is located inside the Lake Madison Park, one of the most enjoyable places for kids and families in town.

There are baseball and softball fields, walking trails, playscapes, basketball court, fishing piers, grills for picnicking, covered pavilion and more.

The splash park is adjacent to the lake, providing a safe place for youngsters to get wet and wild, while you relax in the shade.

We’re more than just mushrooms

4 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

Madison County Museum – Learn the history of Madison County, including the colorful background of the Madisonville Sidewalk Cattlemen’s Association. Past exhibits have included “The Greatest Generation”, offering looks at medals and artifacts from local World War II heroes, a quilt exhibit and “Madison County Christmas Through the Years”.

Oak Ridge Country Club – The nine-hole Oak Ridge Golf Course in Madisonville offers just over 3,400 yards of play, a driving range and low-priced green fees during the week.

The Skydiving Company – Whether you’re a first-time skydiver or an experienced jumper, The Skydiving Company is dedicated to ensuring you have a world-class skydiver experience.

As drivers anywhere along Interstate 45 are no doubt well aware by now, Madisonville boasts a Buc-ee’s location, stocked full of all the Beaver Nuggets and quirky Texas souvenirs your heart desires.

To really mingle with the locals, stop at one of eateries on the downtown square for hearty old-fashioned favorites like chicken and dumplings, chicken fried steak, peach cobbler, bread pudding and sweet tea.

Madisonville is a refreshing retreat from the big city. Visit soon and see what you’ve been missing.

Madison County

BY THE NUMBERS

Population

14,284

SQUARE MILES

472

MILES TO COLLEGE STATION

45

MILES TO HOUSTON

95

M

Madisonville M adisonville Amenities • City Parks • Splash Pad • Convention Center

Welcome to Madisonville 2020 | 5

Economic Development For over two decades the Madison County Economic Development Corporation has pushed to promote industrial and commercial development in the area, while enhancing local business retention and expansion.

“Our main goal is to provide the highest quality of life in the region and prepare for future growth,” said Dave Ward, who helped

develop the corporation in 1997.

One of the organization’s largest developments — a 67-acre industrial park in northern Madison County — now sits at full capacity with businesses such as Texas Pride Trailers, DaSilveira Southwest, B&J Machine Works and Global Oilfield Equipment Company. The site is also home to the Madison County Fairgrounds.

“It took us a few years, but we don’t have a spec of land out there that is not under development,” Ward said.

In recent years, the EDC launched the Community Development Corporation, which builds and renovates homes in the area.

The EDC’s office is located at 113 W. Trinity Street in Madisonville.

Where the Best Begins!

Madison County is one of Texas’ best kept secrets!

Country Living at its best!

DALLAS

Madisonville COLLEGE STATION madisoncountyedc@gmail.com 936.349.0163 113 W. Trinity St. PO Box 1392 Madisonville, TX 77864 6 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

Located halfway between Dallas and Houston

HOUSTON

A good place to visit.....a great place to live.

WELCOME TO MADISONVILLE!

5816 HWY 75 SOUTH MADISONVILLE, TX 77864 936-730-3600

Executive Inn and Suites

Manager Becky Malone

Semi truck parking, easy access from the highway, Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi, Continental Breakfast, 24 hr clerk 3307 E. Main St • Madisonville, TX. 77864 • 936-349-1700 -Office • 936-349-1701 -Fax Welcome to Madisonville 2020 | 7

History of Madison County History comes alive in Madison County, through tales such as the story of the lost settlement of Bucareli. The La Bahina Road and the Old San Antonio Road — originally Indian trails — carried countless travelers and long-lost tales through town. Tales of visits from famous outlaws abound, while some even speculate that the French explorer LaSalle was killed at a site just south of Madison County.

The famous Texas folklorist J. Frank Dobie penned a chapter about lost Spanish gold thought to have been buried in Eastern Madison County in his famous book, “Tales of Old Time Texas.”

Texas history buffs often enjoy experiencing Madison County on their own treasure-hunting expeditions. A trip of this nature should always start at the Madison County Museum, which features displays about local history as well as some of the most knowledgeable local histori-

8 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

ans around. While the rural area of Madison County holds many of its historical treasures, a quick trip to downtown Madisonville also holds many exciting pieces of history.

The territory in present-day Madison County was occupied by members of two Indian groups – the Caddoes and the Atakapans. The Caddoes were among the most advanced of the Texas Indians and were considered wealthy as well as friendly. They lived in large villages and constructed beehive shaped houses. The Bedias, who were principal residents of the area now known as Madison County, belonged to the Atakapan group. They, along with the Deadose Indians, themselves also Atakapans, occupied the Trinity River valley in the heart of the county. The main village of the Bedias was located at the confluence of the Trinity River and Bedias Creek.

Closely associated with the Caddoes, the Bedias were agriculturalists, known for raising corn. They also depended largely on hunting, especially of deer.

Though they were never a large group, they were decimated by epidemics and incursions by hostile tribes. The Kickapoos, migrants from the east who settled among the remnants of the Caddo confederacies, also resided in the area at one time; Kickapoo Creek still bears their name.

Major W.C. Young is generally agreed to have been the first Anglo-American to settle permanently in the area. He left South Carolina in 1829 and moved to Texas, where he participated in the battle of San Jacinto. Prominent among other early settlers and instrumental in settlement and development were James Mitchell, Job Starks Collard and Dr. Pleasant W.

J

A message from CountyJudge A .J. Leago

Kittrell. Mitchell kept a well-regarded hostelry at the parting of San Antonio and La Bahia roads and established the first post office in Madison County. Collard, a member of the Austin colony, was granted a league of land by the Mexican government on May 28, 1835. In 1853, he donated 200 acres for the establishment of a townsite, on which the county seat Madisonville was founded. Kittrell was the impetus behind the organization of Madison County.

The judicial Madison County was formed on February 2, 1842, from Montgomery County. Judicial counties were later declared unconstitutional because they had no legislative representation. Because resident of the northern parts of Walker and Grimes counties lived 40 to 50 miles from their county seats, they petitioned the legislature for the establishment of a new county.

Settlers in the future Madison County witnessed the Runaway Scrape in 1836, as citizens of Texas rushed towards Trinity in an effort to escape the advance of Santa Anna.

Madison County, reported to have been “wild and wooly” before and after the Civil War, was referred to as the “Free State of Madison.” Between 1854 and 1873 the county lost three courthouses to fire, and in 1967, yet another courthouse burned to the ground. The present building was completed in 1970 and is the fifth courthouse to serve Madison County. In 2013, it was listed as “Five Of The Ugliest Texas County Courthouses” by Houstonia magazine.

The Madison County Public Library has an extensive genealogy section, as well as lots of books penned by local families, recalling the oral histories of some of the earliest settlers of the region.

Things are looking up for Madison County.

There is a migration to the north and the rural county midway between Houston and Dallas stands to be the beneficiaries of new growth.

“We have people, almost weekly, moving up here,” County Judge A.J. Leago said. “We are constantly processing real estate purchases and our inspections department stays busy.

That is something that we don’t anticipate slowing down at all and we are good with that.”

Aiding in the growth is the expansion of Interstate 45, which is expected to make its way to Madisonville over the next decade. The county is also situated along U.S. Hwy. 21, giving residents easy access to nearby communities of College Station and Bryan.

“I consistently get asked ‘Why did you move to Madison County’.” Leago said. “I always just say why wouldn’t I. We are within a few hours to two international airports, but more than that everything I would ever need is readily available here.

“This is a great place to live and there is no place that I’d rather call home.”

A.J. “Tony” Leago Welcome to Madisonville 2020 | 9

Things to do in Madisonville Madisonville is within driving distance of three cultural and economic centers of Texas —Dallas/ Fort Worth, Bryan/ College Station and Houston.

While staying in one of Madisonville’s hotels or motels situated minutes from Interstate 45, go fishing on Lake Madison or go skydiving at the Madisonville Airport.

There’s no shortage of things to do within Madisonville, but here are just a few.

Buc-ee’s The star of this business is the restrooms — huge, bright and spotless. There are literally dozens and dozens of gas pumps; more than any other station. The store is the most amazing convenience store anywhere. Clean, well lit, spacious and busy ... there are many Buc-ee’s brand products to temp you. Beaver Nuggets are a favorite. The employees are friendly and helpful. Buc-ee’s is located at 205 IH-45 in Madisonville.

Cemeteries in Madison County Texas There are 61 cemeteries located in Madison County, with 13 of them in the city of Madisonville. The Madisonville Cemetery and West End Cemetery are the resting place for over 3,000 of our local friends and be10 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

loved family members, with many gravesites dating back to the early 1800’s.

El Camino Trail Lesser known but much older trails are the El Camino Real De Los Tejas and the La Bahia Trail. The El Camino Real was an East/West Corridor that connected West Texas and New Mexico with Louisiana and the Mississippi River.

Portions of it survive in modern-day Madison County as Old Spanish Road (OSR) and Highway 21.

Fishing Fishing is a great way to spend time unplugged, outdoors and in nature. Madison County is home to 92 lakes, rivers and other fishing spots.

Golf The Oak Ridge Golf Course is a 9-hole course in Madisonville featuring 3,408 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 36. The course rating is 35.9 and has a slope rating of 125. Designed by Leon Howard, the Oak Ridge golf course opened in 1967 and is located at 2006 Country Club Lane FM 1452 in Madisonville, Texas. 936348-6264.

E

Annual Madison County County Events Events • JANUARY • — Lone Star 5000 Coon Hunt

• MARCH • —Madison County Rodeo & County Fair • MAY • —Madisonville Sidewalk Cattleman’s Association Steak Dinner & Dance —MSCA Barbeque Cook Off Library In the fall of 1966, a dream became reality for the people of Madison County when Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Parten (local civic leader, rancher, oil man and businessman) gave 400 shares of Union Oil of California stock to its citizens to purchase a building for the Madison County Library. On January 27, 1966, the Madison County Commissioners Court purchased the former Colonial Inn at 605 S. May. The building would be renovated into a library, with $75,000 set aside by the bond election held on December 21, 1966.

There was a strong feeling in the community that Madison County could no longer deny the citizens the benefits of a good public library, and that a good library containing books for people of all ages would be an investment for continuing community growth.

On October 4, 1967, final approval was sent from Austin for the library. The agreement between the Texas State Library and the Madison County Library lists total estimated funds for the library at $110,000.

This included the purchase price of the building, equipment, architects’ fees, supervision and inspection, construction contracts and contingency, and the purchase of 10,000 volumes to stock the library.

The Madison County Library was officially opened on April 27, 1969 and dedicated to Wayne Lafayette Parten.

The Summer Reading Program, Story-time for toddlers and public access to computers and fax machines are some of the programs and services provided by the library.

• JULY • — Fourth of July Celebration • AUGUST • — Madisonville Noon Lion’s Club Gun Show • OCTOBER • —National Night Out Softball Game (Madisonville Police Department vs.

City Public Works) — Texas Mushroom Festival • DECEMBER • — Madison County Chamber of Commerce Night-time Parade & Cookies with Santa — Pathway of Lights

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Madison County Museum The museum hosts changing exhibits including locally-made and antique quilts, an exhibition on WWll and contributions to the war effort by Madisonville citizens, and Madison County Christmas through the years. The museum is located at 201 N Madison Street, Madisonville, 936-348-5230.

Nettles Country Store Nettles Country Store has an unusual western flair, mixing western décor and western tack, sometimes even integrating the two together.

Nettles Country Store is home of the World’s Finest Hand-crafted Horse Saddle Stirrups. Nettles is located at 1087 Nettles Lane, Madisonville, 936-348-6541.

Lone Star Olive Ranch Lone Star Olive Ranch is a family owned and operated olive business ideally located in Madisonville, approximately 95 miles north of downtown Houston and 140 miles south of the heart of Dallas/Fort Worth. They grow and produce 100% Texas extra virgin olive oil. They also provide olive orchard related services for orchard installation, consultation and management. They are all about the olive! Stop by at 856 FM 2289, Madisonville, 832-4454130.

Skydiving Whether you’re a first-time skydiver or an experienced jumper, Texas Skydiving Company is dedicated to ensuring you have a world-class skydiving experience.

They offer tandem skydiving, learn to skydive training programs, and sport jumping in brand-new facilities designed to ensure your safety, comfort and enjoyment. They are located at 2207 Airport Lane, Madisonville, 844-759-3483

12 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

A FAST & FUN ROADTRIP IS WAITING FOR YOU! Get out of the house, hit the road and Experience Huntsville.

Plan a quick day-trip or a weekend get-a-way that’s just a short drive from Austin, Dallas or Houston! In Huntsville you’ll find the perfect location for your family holiday, girls-trip destination, antique shopping or just a stroll around downtown.

Huntsville offers visitors an array of discoveries – history, arts, antiques, culture, nature, entertainment and sporting events – all mixed with hometown hospitality. The small-town, historic flair of Huntsville brings new meaning to ‘Texas Charm.’ Join us in Home Sweet Huntsville, where a warm welcome awaits!

For more information and overnight accommodations in Huntsville visit HuntsvilleTexas.com or call 800-289-0389 @SamHoustonStatueTX

@VisitSamHouston

Welcome to Madisonville 2020 | 13

Exceptional Decor & Unique Gifts

Home decor • Furniture • Stirrups Books • Vases American Art • Belts • Crosses Jewelry • Clocks and more!

Pathway of Light It’s dubbed as one of the largest nativity scenes in Southeast Texas.

It takes more than 15 churches and nearly 350 Madisonville residents to pull off The Pathway of Light each December. The Pathway of Light started in 2006 as an event dedicated to the miracle of Jesus Christ, providing patrons with a journey through at least 13 outdoor scenes that follow the story from Christ’s birth to his resurrection.

The event attracts thousands to Madisonville each year, with nearly 40% of guests each year being first-timers.

The Pathway of Light helps set the pace for a wonderful Christmas season in Madison County, beginning the second Tuesday in December.

CHRISTMAS IN MADISONVILLE The Madison County Courthouse is lit up each year prior to the annual night-time Christmas parade. The parade features entries from churches, school organizations, businesses and individuals from all over the region.

Following the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus greet the children at the Truman Kimbro Center for pictures and punch.

The parade takes place on the first Saturday in December and travels from Lake Madison Park to downtown Madisonville.

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Madisonville, TX 800.729.2234 10-5 M-F & 10-3 Sat

3 miles west of Madisonville on Hwy 21

Home m o r f y Home a w a

W

ith six hotels and motels all situated near Interstate 45, Madisonville offers easy access to the city and the surrounding area, whether you are in town for business or pleasure.

Each offer rooms from budget to more extravagant, with amenities aplenty for single lodgers and families.

All five offer free Wi-Fi and TV with cable channels.

Several offer mini fridges, microwaves, free continental breakfast, separate living areas and free parking. Additional amenities include swimming polls, fitness centers and guest laundry.

Several also offer free stays for children 17 and younger with an adult.

From helpful staffs to the creature comforts, all are equipped to enhance the positive experience of your stay in Madisonville.

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham 2808 East Main Street 936-349-1000 wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn/madisonville-texas At this no-frills budget hotel off Interstate 45, all rooms include flat screen televisions, desks, coffee makers and hairdryers. Amenities include a free continental breakfast in the dining area and free parking for vehicles of all sizes.

Best Western Executive Inn & Suites 3307 East Main Street 936-349-1700 bestwestern.com The Best Western Executive Inn & Suites is sure to provide a peaceful and comforting home away from home for any traveler. Each Best Western hotel provides free internet access.

Amenities include an indoor pool and spa and an exercise facility.

Quality Inn 3305 East Main Street 936-348-3606 choicehotels.com/texas/madisonville/quality-inn-hotels Guests at the Quality Inn enjoy amenities that bring you the value you deserve like free WiFi in the comfort of your room, free car, truck and bus parking and free hot breakfast to help start your day right. All guest rooms have a refrigerator, microwave and a flat screen TV with a premium cable channels. Also included is an outdoor seasonal pool.

Motel 6 2007 East Main Street 936-348-7654 www.motel6.com/ The budget motel located off Interstate 45 and near local dining areas. All modern-look rooms feature a micro-fridge and free Wi-Fi access.

Budget Inn 203 Interstate 45 North 936-348-9222 staywithbudget.com/ Choose from smoke free, pet-friendly rooms and enjoy our outdoor pool and scenic patio area. All this and more, at an affordable price.

Woodbine Hotel 209 N. Madison Street 936-348-3333 woodbinehotel.com The historic hotel offers eight comfortable and elegent individual rooms and suites. The hotel was constructed in 1904.

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Dream Wedding s Lake House on Lake Madison 1215 East Collard Street 936-348-9333 madisonvilletexas.us/product/lake-house-on-lake-madison The small event venue, 75 guests maximum, offers scenic views of Lake Madisonville and its sunsets. Alcohol can be served at the facility for an additional fee.

e u n Ve

Truman Kimbro Center 111 West Trinity Street 936-348-9333 madisonvilletexas.us/product/truman-kimbro-center/ The state-of-the-art convention center is located in the heart of Downtown Madisonville. The venue can hold your dream wedding or reception with up to 300 people. Alcohol can be served at the facility for an additional fee.

Bluebird Haven Estates 601 East Collard 936-245-0057 bluebirdhaven.com This matchless venue hosts manicured grounds surrounded by creeks, massive oak trees and 30 lush acres. The property supports vast wildlife including a large number of whitetail deer, red fox and the venue’s namesake, the bluebird. Bluebird Haven offers different settings ranging from rustic scenes to country elegance with a diverse array of photo opportunities for the wedding party.

16 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

Fannin Oaks 2286 FM 1452 936-412-2207 fanninoaks.com The full-service wedding venue provides a place where you could relax, have fun and enjoy the beautiful views together with friends and family, whether that view is from the rocking chairs on the back porch, the romantic setting of the ceremony site or from the large open space of the venue. Amenities include a 7,500 square-foot barn-style venue and a 3,200 square-foot bridal house.

Madisonville Sidewalk Cattlemen’s Pavilion 800 North May Street 936-349-0500 sidewalkcattlemens.com/facilities The climate controlled venue provides a space large enough for almost any event you can imagine. The space also features a stage, full kitchen and bar area.

Rockin Oaks Event Center 3380 Donaho Road (North Zulch) 936-349-3380 www.rockinoakec.com The setting for Rockin Oak Event Center is part of a 85-acre cattle farm located between Bryan and Madisonville. At Rockin Oak, you will find a country venue that can be either rustic or casual to suit what is wanted for a memorable wedding ceremony and reception. Green pastures, the sun setting on your wedding party and stars galore, the outdoor facilities will leave you and your guests with memories that will last a lifetime.

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WEDDING CHECKLIST ENTERTAINMENT

Jessie Jaenicke Event Sound & DJ 936-348-4029 jessejaenicke@yahoo.com Under the Tower Productions 682-232-4659 underthetower.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Kiefer Likens thekieferlikens.com

Southern Charm facebook.com/photographysoutherncharm

FLOWERS

Apple Tree Florist 706 East Main Street 936-348-6741 facebook.com/pg/appletreeflowershop Heart to Heart 109 West Trinity Street 936-348-5903 hearttoheartflowers.com/

18 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

CATERING

Luigi’s Italian 1608 E Main Street 936-241-5100 Mallett Brothers Barbeque 3303 East Main Street 936-348-9440 McKenzie’s Barbeque 1711 East Main Street 936-348-2118 Rancho Viejo Mexican 102 South Elm Street 936-348-6000 Texas Legends Steakhouse 115 South Madison Street 936-348-3927 Walkers Café 112 West Main Street 936-348-2672

S

ince 1962, the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, which includes more than 115 individual and business members, has been a trusted resource for local and regional businesses and their employees.

Membership with the chamber generates many benefits. The board of directors and many dedicated members work to facilitate and maintain a dynamic, highly productive organization.

The chamber’s purpose is to make Madison County the most economically prosperous region in the Brazos Valley.

As a member of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, you enjoy a host of professional development and networking opportunities for a very reasonable annual fee; but that is just scratching the surface of how chamber partnership benefits you and your business.

A nationwide study of over 2,000 adults revealed that when consumers know that a business is a partner of their local chamber of commerce, they are 44% more likely to think favorably of it and 63% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.

Support your neighbor

MADISON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

113 West Trinity' Madisonville, TX 77864

936.348.3591 www.madisonchamber.net

SHOP LOCAL Support your local retailers and restaurants

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Madisonville Municipal Airport I

t has evolved from a sleepy and sparsely used facility into a growing and vibrant addition to the City of Madisonville’s economic base.

Madisonville Municipal Airport (51R), is an unmanned general aviation utility airport located three miles southwest of Madisonville off of FM 1452, at an elevation of 287 feet above sea level. It also has fuel for both Jet A and LL100.

The airport property accommodates Runway 18/36, hangar access taxiways and aircraft tie-downs. The airport is situated on 40 acres of land owned by the city of Madisonville. In 2018 it received the Texas Department of Transportation Aviation’s Most Improved Airport.

The airport services corporate, governmental, recreational, student and private pilot activities. It continues to be an essential component in the economic development of the City of

RaZer Wireless “Cutting Edge” In High Speed Wireless Internet

936-228-4999 www.razerwireless.com

115 N Madison Street • Madisonville, TX 77864 20 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

Madisonville and Madison County.

The Texas Skydiving Company, Wanda Collins, Professional Pilot Services and Madisonville Flying Services operate out of the Municipal Airport.

Sidewalk Cattlemen’s Association I

t started as a tongue-in-cheek organization to poke fun at non-cattlemen.

Today, the Madisonville Sidewalk Cattlemen’s Association serves as a massive scholarship organization, designed to help send deserving Madison County high school students to college.

According to lore, unwary boot wearers who are unable to prove that they own at least two head of cattle should be prepared for a ceremonial dunking in the watering trough on the courthouse lawn. Now-a-days this well attended ceremony generally only takes place during late May and early June, when the Madisonville

Sidewalk Cattlemen’s Association hosts their annual festivities.

The world-famous organization began back in 1941 when local newspaper editor H.B. Fox noticed one day that “sidewalk cattlemen” were popping up around town. Fox took note that these young men hung around the square, discussing cattle and the like, fully dressed up in boots, spurs and various other western wear, but didn’t own any cattle. Hence the term “sidewalk cattlemen.” Be prepared to defend your right to wear your boots or you could find yourself taking an unexpected bath in the watering trough in Downtown Madisonville.

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LAKE MADISON PARK

Lake Madison Park is the perfect place for any family event. The 247-acre park offers fishing, splash pad, playgrounds, baseball/softball fields, walking trail, soccer fields, barbecue pits, fishing piers and much more. Rent the lake house or pavilion for your special event.

The park is located at 1215 E. Collard Street, Madisonville, TX. For facility reservations, call 936-348-9333.

• 247 acres • Baseball & Softball Fields • Covered Pavilion • Walking Trails • Fishing • Playgrounds • Splash Pad • Sand Volleyball Court • Soccer Fields

Parks & Recreation

MARIAN ANDERSON PARK

Marian Anderson Park is a neighborhood park that offers a walking trail, covered basketball halfcourt, soccer area and playground.

The park is located at 213 Martin Luther King Street, Madisonville, TX. For pavillion reservations, call 936-348-9333.

• Walking Trails • Sand Volleyball Court • Covered Basketball Court

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Education

MADISONVILLE CISD

718 Bacon Street 936-348-2797 www.madisonvillecisd.org Madisonville CISD is a 400-square-mile consolidated school district that serves the communities of Madisonville, Midway and Bedias.

Over the last 13 years MCISD has committed over $30 million dollars to facilities for their students, with some touting them as the best in the Lone Star State.

MCISD also excels at the state-mandated accountability system. However, their philosophy of student development is not that narrow. The district strives to instill the qualities of excellence, service, loyalty, respect, integrity and leadership in each of its students.

NORTH ZULCH ISD 718 Bacon Street 936-348-2797 www.nzisd.org

North Zulch ISD is a small school district in western Madison County, which serves an average of 330 students in PreKindergarten through 12th grade and a single campus.

The district historically receives high marks on the state-mandated accountability system — receiving a ‘B’ in its latest ranking. Thanks to it’s small student population, North Zulch ISD maintains a 10.78 student-to-teacher ratio.

The campus is located at 11390 Fifth Street in North Zulch.

24 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

Health Care

CHI St. Joseph Health Madison Hospital 100 West Cross Street 936-348-2631 www.chistjoseph.org

HealthPoint Madisonville 100 West Cross Street 936-348-3418 www.healthpoint-tx.com

HealthPoint seeks to provide evidenced-based healthcare utilizing a patient-empowered team approach to achieve individual wellness for all members of the Greater Brazos Valley community. They do this through a comprehensive approach to your medical needs, including medical and dental services.

As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), HealthPoint receives funds from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) Health Center Program to provide primary care services in underserved areas.

At CHI St. Joseph Health Madison Hospital, they strive to create a truly healing environment.

From emergency care to in-patient care; skilled nursing to physical therapy, they’re a full-service hospital you can trust. With physicians in many disciplines, including cardiology, gastroenterology, nephrology and orthopedics, you’ll receive advanced care from professionals you can count on.

CHI St. Joseph Health Madison Hospital is a 25- bed critical access hospital in Madisonville, offering a Level IV Trauma Center, in-patient and out-patient services, therapy, emergency care, skilled nursing care, injury treatment and more.

CHI St. Joseph Health Madison Hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. The facility is also designated as a Level III Support Stroke Facility by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

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North Zulch POPULATION 2,516 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (aged 25+)

78.6%

Bachelor’s degree or higher (aged 25+)

13.4%

INCOME

Median household income

$50,715

HOUSING

Median value of owner-occupied housing units

$136,565

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work

30.8 minutes

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

26 | Welcome to Madisonville 2020

A Town Full of History North Zulch is an unincorporated community at the intersection of State Highway 21 and U.S. Highway 39, six miles from the Navasota River and thirteen miles west of Madisonville in west-central Madison County. It was established in 1907 when citizens of Zulch moved north to relocate along the newly constructed Trinity and Brazos Valley Railway, which had bypassed the old town.

In 1908 a post office was established and a public school was organized in North Zulch. Classes were held in the Freewill Baptist Church until the following spring, when a two-story frame building was erected.

Today, North Zulch has a population of over 2,500 people and is home to the North Zulch Independent School District, which serves western Madison County.

Midway

Western Heritage At the junction of State Highway 21 and the Old San Antonio Road in northeastern Madison County sits Midway. By 1854 a settlement existed at the site, but it was not until Joseph Addison Clark moved there in 1855 that the town was named after his hometown of Midway, Kentucky.

A post office was opened in 1856 and that year Clark helped found and taught at the first school in Midway. Clark was also the first pastor at the Midway Church of Christ, a strong church for many years.

The school at Midway was closed during the Civil War, but was subsequently reopened and soon had enough students to fill two rooms.

In 1896 there were 107 pupils and three teachers in this school. The Midway school was consolidated with the Madisonville Independent School District in 1960, because it no longer had enough students.

Growth in the community has been tied to the economic fortunes of the local cattle industry. Today, Midway’s population is estimated at 280 people.

POPULATION 233 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (aged 25+)

74.3%

Bachelor’s degree or higher (aged 25+)

22.5%

INCOME

Median household income

$54,680

HOUSING

Median value of owner-occupied housing units

$81,673

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work

20.9 minutes

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Welcome to Madisonville 2020 | 27

Church Directory ASSEMBLY OF GOD First Assembly of God 812 E. Main St, Madisonville S.S. (10 a.m.), Worship (11 a.m.)

Cross Baptist Hwy. 39, Cross S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m. & 7 p.m.), Wed.( 7 p.m.)

APOSTOLIC Joshua Refuge Apostolic Church 1922 Hwy. 75 North, Madisonville B.S. (Thurs. 7-8:30 p.m.), S.S. (1011 a.m.), W.S. (11:30 a.m.)

Elwood Baptist 109 S. Madison St., Elwood S.S. (9:45 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (6:30 p.m.)

Madisonville Apostolic Church 601 N. May St. in Madisonville S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (7 p.m.)

BAPTIST Bedias Baptist 3729 Main St, Bedias S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

Christ Chapel Baptist 11574 Hwy 21E, Midway W.S. (11 a.m.)

Faith Baptist Hwy. 90, Madisonville S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m. & 6 p.m. & Wed. 7 p.m.)

First Baptist of Madisonville 300 S. Elm, Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:50 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Prayer (Wed. 6:30 p.m.)

First Baptist 254 Madison Ave., North Zulch S.S. (9:45 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (6 p.m.)

Freedom Missionary Baptist S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:30 a.m.), Wed. (5 p.m.)

Free Will Baptist 365 Zulch Ave, North Zulch S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (6 p.m.)

Grace Baptist 7171 Fm 1372, North Zulch S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.), Wed. (6 p.m.)

Hispanic Baptist 310 N. May, Madisonville Dom. (10 a.m. y 6 p.m.), Mierc. y Vier. (6 p.m.)

Hopewell Missionary Baptist 12695 FM 247, Midway S.S. (9:45 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.)

Lake View Baptist 4l6 N. Short St, Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:45 a.m.), Bible (Wed. 6:30 p.m.), Missionary Soc. (Wed. 5:30 p.m.)

Little Rock Missionary Baptist E.M. 1428 south of SH. 21, Connor S.S. (9:30 a.m.), WS. (11 a.m.)

Lone Star Missionary Baptist 22426 Gin Tank Rd., Bedias S.S. (11 a.m.)

Madisonville Christian Fellowship 3973 Hwy 21 East, Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m.)

Mesquite Hill Baptist 7401 Rocky Ridge Ln., Madisonville S.S. (10 a.m.), WS. (11 a.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

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New Life Baptist Church 1508 E. Collard, Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

Pool Chapel Missionary Baptist 1008 Mclver, Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (11:00 a.m.), Wed. (6 p.m.)

Primera Iglesia Bautista de los Hispafios 506 S. Elm St, Madisonville W.S. (5 p.m.); Wed. (7 p.m.)

Rock Prairie Baptist 9085 Oxford Cemetery Road, Madisonville S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (6:30 p.m.)

Sand Prairie Baptist Off Hwy. 39 on 1452W in George S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.), Bible (5 p.m.), W.S. (5:30 p.m.), Wed. (6:30 p.m.)

Shiloh Baptist FM 1696, Panky S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.)

Shiloh Missionary Baptist 205 S. MLK Dr., Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.), Wed. (6 p.m.)

CHURCH OF CHRIST Antioch Church of Christ 15821 Hwy 21 E, Midway S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.)

North Zulch Church of Christ 323 Zulch St, North Zulch S.S. (10 a.m.), WS. (11 a.m. & 6 p.m.)

Bedias Church of Christ 22058 Hwy. 90 North, Bedias S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.)

Sweet Zion Missionary Baptist 305 Bogan Street, Madisonville S.S. (9.a.m.), W.S. (10 a.m.), Bible (6:30 p.m.), Wed. (6:30 p.m.)

Highway 90 Church of Christ 1115 S. Madison, Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:30 a.m. & 5 p.m), Wed. (6 p.m.)

West Main Church of Christ 804 W. Main St, Madisonville S.S. (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:30 a.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

Union Baptist FM 2289, Normangee S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.), Awana, Wed. (6 p.m.)

Midway Church of Christ Hwy 21 E., Midway S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.), Wed. (6:30 p.m.)

CATHOLIC St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic 100 S. Tammye Lane, Madisonville Confession, Sat. (11 a.m.), Mass Sun. (9:30 a.m.), Spanish Mass (1 p.m.)

Mt. Tabor Church of Christ Hwy. 75 W.S. (9:30 a.m.)

Southside Church of Christ 6050 FM 247, Midway Bible (9:30 a.m.), W.S. (10:30 a.m.)

EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents Episcopal 600 N. Mclver, Madisonville W.S. (10:30 a.m.)

North Madison Church of Christ 402 N. Madison, Madisonville S.S. (10:50 a.m.), W.S. (9:30 a.m.)

PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL St. Paul’s Protestant Episcopal 201 N. Texas St., Madisonville

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Welcome to Madisonville 2020 | 29

LUTHERAN Bethlehem Lutheran 5058 Church Lane, North Zulch S.S. (8:30 a.m.), W.S. (9:45 a.m.)

METHODIST Bedias United Methodist 3202 Main St, Bedias S.S. (9:45 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.), Wed. (6 p.m.)

MORMON Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1205 E. Main, Madisonville W.S. (10 a.m.), S.S. (11:15 a.m.)

PENTECOSTAL Free Pentecostal House of Prayer 716 W. Main, Madisonville S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11:30 a.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

First United Methodist 102 S. Mclver, Madisonville S.S. (9:45 a.m.), W.S. (8:30 & 11 a.m.)

Mission Pentecostes 902 S. May, Madisonville Dom. (6 p.m.), Mier. (7 p.m.), Vier. (7 p.m.)

Tanyard United Methodist 9866 Tanyard Church Lane, Midway W.S. 11:30 a.m.

Two Mile United Methodist Hwy. 977, Leona S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.)

United Pentecostal 507 E. Magnolia, Madisonville W.S. (10 a.m.), Wed. (6:30 p.m.)

REFORMED Pleasant Grove Reformed Church 28277 Pleasant Grove Rd, N. Zulch S.S. (10 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.), Wed (6 p.m.)

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Brazos Valley Power Center 105 N. Madison St, Madisonville W.S. (10 a.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

New Life Church 11969 Hwy 21 E, Midway S.S. (9:45 a.m.), W.S. (10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

Church of Hope 20260 Hwy 90 North, Bedias W.S. (Sat. 6 p.m.), Prayer (Tues.

10 a.m.), Teens (Fri. 7 p.m.)

Salem Disciple of Jesus Christ Ministry Church 22470 Leon St., Bedias S.S. (10:30 a.m.), W.S. (11 a.m.)

Cornerstone Bible Church 3367 FM 1452 W., Madisonville W.S. (10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

The Dwelling Place 901 W. Trinity St. W.S. (10:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.)

Cross Pointe Church Kimbro Center W.S. (10:30 a.m.)

Cross Roads Cowboy Church 1207 S. Madison St, Madisonville W.S. (10 a.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

Victory Bible Church 3707 S.H. 21 W,, Madisonville W.S. (10:45 a.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

— All worship services and sunday school services are on Sunday’s, unless otherwise noted.

Living Truth Church 1100 N. May, Madisonville S.S. (9:45 a.m.), W.S. (10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m.), Wed. (7 p.m.)

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