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2021 Visitors & Newcomers Guide Covering Colorado City, Loraine and Westbrook Published by the Colorado City Record

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Colorado City City Record Record 2021 2021 ·• Visitors Visitors && Newcomers Newcomers Guide Guide 22 ·• Colorado

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Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 3

Welcome to our Community Visitors, Newcomers and Local Citizens...

We would like to welcome all visitors and newcomers to Mitchell County.

Mitchell County has a rich history which includes ranching, farming and oil and gas industries. We provide outstanding school districts, Colorado City ISD, Loraine ISD and Westbrook ISD, with world class education that also provides college courses.

We are also fortunate to have a nationally recognized hospital. Mitchell County Hospital has been recognized as one of the top 20 hospitals in the nation for a critical care access hospital. At this time the hospital district is under construction for a new nursing home and physical rehabilitation center.

Our community offers recreation at both local lakes, Fisher Park and Lake Colorado City State Park, a sports complex that is utilized by West Texas and beyond that hosts playoff games and tournaments, a County Extension Office for our youth group, newly renovated city swimming pool as well as a library that offers youth programs and reading material. We have special events that occur throughout the year which includes but not limited to, an annual car show and annual fly-in, National attending swine sale at the county agricultural barn, a Veterans Program called Run for the Wall where we honor our nation’s veterans and we have a new 5k annual event that honors two local fallen heroes.

The “80 John” Wallace Unit allows gainful employment and housing to our community. Our community also just completed construction of a newly Commercial Vehicle Weigh Station that provides employment. We have a number of welcoming churches that will provide any and all denominations.

Mitchell County is a place to get to know your neighbor, share stories, build a family foundation and enjoy the West Texas sunrises and sunsets.

Thank you, Mark Merrell Mitchell County Judge ON THE COVER: Spade Ranch cowby Marty Daniels (right) and friend 11-year-old Meskete Ellis, son of Brittany and Colt Ellis, cross the Colorado River while working cattle. The river was a bit muddy following early July 2021 rains. Photo by Record Staff.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome Letter ...........................................................Page 3 Railhead Building.........................................................Page 4 Chronological History.............................................Pages 6, 7 Mitchell County History.................................................Page 8 County Cemetery Information.....................................Page 10 County Historical Markers...................................Pages 12-14 Venues............................................................Pages 4, 16, 18 Mitchell Co. Airport.....................................................Page 20 Lake Champion Fisher Park.......................................Page 22 Heart of West Texas Museum.................................... Page 24 Colorado City Map......................................................Page 26 Advertisier Index........................................................ Page 27 Lake C-City State Park Map............................... Pages 28-29 Lake C-City Information............................................. Page 30 World Championship Goat Cookoff............................Page 32 Local Churches..........................................................Page 32 CC Riders Annual Car Show...................................... Page 34 Resturant Guide................................................. Pages 36-39 Home of the Poppy Mallow.........................................Page 39 Wolf Creek Golf Course..............................................Page 40 Important Numbers.....................................................Page 40 Mitchell County Sports Complex................................ Page 42 Ruddick Park..............................................................Page 43 Mitchell County Hospital..................................... Pages 44-45 Colorado ISD...................................................... Pages 46-47 Loraine ISD.......................................................... Page 48-49 Westbrook ISD..................................................... Page 50-51 Western Texas College......................................... Page 52-53 TDCJ Unit...................................................................Page 54

157 West 2nd Street Colorado City, TX 79512 325-728-3403 ccitychamber@gmail.com

Welcome to Colorado City!

Breathtaking sunrises and equally spectacular sunsets characterize Colorado City, nestled in the Heart of West Texas on the banks of the ruddy Colorado River.

Today, Colorado City boasts of excellent schools, a state park, lakes, rivers, city parks, library, hospital, motels, golf course, sports complex, airport, a variety of restaurants, great local shops and antique shops.

We invite you to visit and let us show you what West Texas hospitality is all about. We are a town filled with forward thinking, and energetic people who have a vision for the future!

Check out www.coloradocitychamberofcommerce.com or follow us on Facebook for a listing of happenings going on in the area.

You are always welcome in Colorado City!

4 • Colorado City Record 20 21 • V isitors & Newcomers Guide

Chamber events Colorado City Calendar of Events January – Mitchell County Livestock Show March – Chamber Banquet April – Chamber Spring BBQ Cook Off 3rd Saturday of May – Run for the Wall 2nd Weekend in June – CC Riders Car Show & Sonic Cruise June - Rotary Club Night Golf Tournament July 4th – J.O. Dockrey Fly-In th July 4 – Fun & Fireworks in Ruddick Park September - Kid’s Day Parade October – CCVFD Boer Goat Cook-Off October – Railhead Pumpkin Patch October – Trick or Treat Around Town November – Hunters Appreciation Dinner 3rd Weekend of November – Holiday Palooza December – Parade, Festival of Trees, Santa Pictures, Lions Club Hamburger Supper

Historical Railhead a hub of activity all year You can shop “til you drop during the Holiday Palooza Show in Colorado City, if shopping is your passion. This event is held the 3rd weekend in November and brings in vendors – and shoppers- from throughout West Texas.

All activities take place in and around the Railhead Building on Saturday and Sunday.

Originally a grocery store and then a car dealership showroom with glass walls and across from the railroad tracks, the 23,000 square foot building symbolized the heart of commerce in downtown C-City.

Located at First and Elm Street, Holiday Palooza is an arts and crafts fair sponsored by the Colorado City Area Chamber of Commerce.

Attendees are also encouraged to visit

other businesses in the community, including downtown merchants. Many of the local merchants stay open additional hours during the event in an effort to give shoppers that come to town even more shopping choices.

Vendors interested in renting booths for the Holiday Palooza Show can contact the chamber at 325-728-3403 or download the application on the website www.coloThe radocitychamberofcommerce.com. application will be posted by mid-August.

Holiday Palooza isn’t the only use for the Railhead Building. It is used by others in the community for the annual C-City Riders Car Show, the fall Pumpkin Patch weekend, Hunter’s Appreciation Dinner, Festival of Trees and to feed hungry motocyclists traveling with Run for the Wall.

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Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 5

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6 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

History Texas Legislature created 54 counties including Mitchell County Hundreds of cattlemen arrived to tame this “wild west” land living in tents and dugouts.

A few brave buffalo hunters, like the Mooar brothers, found enough work here to settle in a bit. While here, the brothers commercially hunted thousands of buffalo (including the famous white buffalo), marketed hides to the east and later bought some land and built a livery stable in Colorado City.

1880 Anticipation and speculation over what route the railroad would take through West Texas drove a handful of brave pioneers and merchants to the area now known as Colorado City.

1881 Mitchell County was organized with J.F. Bozeman as County Judge and Dick Ware as Sheriff (January, 1881) Mitchell County is connected with a post office by the name of Colorado, Texas (January, 1881) The Texas & Pacific Railway reached the community now known as Colorado City. The railroad terminated here for some time while the Colorado River railroad bridge was being constructed fueling business and population growth (April, 1881).

The first buffalo hides and bones were sold in the east to a market craving a piece of the “wild west” (April 1881).

Driven by the railroad, various new businesses sprang up overnight, lots were sold for inflated amounts and the town became the first boom town in West Texas. It was known as the “Mother City of West Texas.”

1882 Colorado, Texas was organized by a vote of 63-42. At that time, it was the first town between Weatherford and El Paso (March, 1882).

The first brick home in Colorado, Texas was built using bricks made from the mud of the nearby Colorado River. The Heritage House is operated by the Heart of West Texas Museum and is available for tours and events.

1886 The Colorado Salt Company was established utilizing resources such as brackish water to manufacture salt and the railroad to ship the salt to many areas around the United States.

1889 Inventor of barbed wire, Col. Isaac Ellwood settled in West Texas to market the new wire to this fenceless territory. He purchased a large ranch and named it the Renderbrook-Spade Ranch. This 300,000-acre ranch is still owned by the Ellwood heirs and the distinctive original brand is still in use.

1892 Westbrook was established with a post office.

1898 Loraine was established as a cattle shipping point. Soon after four cotton gins, a cheese factory, bank, post office and a cooperative association were among the 70 businesses in Loraine.

1899 The Colorado City Opera House was built after a fire destroyed the prior theater. The Opera House is one of the oldest fully operational theaters in Texas.

1900 Cotton became one of the “Big Three” in the Mitchell County trinity-cattle, cotton and eventually oil.

1905 The Colorado Record was established and continues to serve, connect and inform residents of Mitchell County and the surrounding areas.

1907 The first intercity bus line in Texas, and possibly in the U.S., was in operation between Colorado and Snyder, Texas. Without a muffler, this loud contraption was considered a “dangerous vehicle” to be avoided.

1911 The first airplane to land in Colorado City was a bi-plane. It touched down briefly on a ball field as hundreds of people flocked to see the landing.

1920 Oil is first discovered in Mitchell County as the first Permian Basin discovery well. (Underwriter’s #1) was drilled 5 miles north of Westbrook in the “Westbrook Field”. For a short time, Colorado City and Westbrook were the center of oil activity. This discovery occurred years before the big oil boom in the Permian Basin and the Westbrook Field is still producing today.

1924-1969 Col Tex Refinery was a top notch oil processing facility and employer. Beginning with 500 barrels of crude in 1924, the facility improved to over 10,000 barrels by the 1930s. By the 1970s, the refinery was closed.

1927 Root Memorial Hospital was built. The new Mitchell County Hospital was built and opened in 2003.

1939 Days of rain connected the Colorado River and Lone Wolf Creek through flooding most of downtown. The rise of the river banks caused several cotton bales to float down the river and collect on the railroad bridge. The extra pressure caused the bridge to collapse, washing away the cotton and the train locomotive used to weigh the bridge down.

1941 Oil was discovered just below the surface in a Beverly Hillbillies sort of way. One man lit a cigarette and threw the match down and fire belched up out of the puddle. The land owner had to pay the $85 veterinary bill for the burned horse but soon afterwards was selling the oil to the area refineries under the name Sun Flower Oilfield.

1949 Over 34 community schools consolidated to form three Mitchell County school districts; Colorado Independent School District, Westbrook Rural High School District and Loraine Independent School District.

1950 Texas Electric Service Company completed a 40,000 kilowatt power plant called Morgan Creek Power Plant. Lake Colorado City and Champion Creek Reservoir were built to supply water to the electric plant.

Colorado City went live with KVMC/KAUM radio station. KVMC/KAUM continues to bring news, weather, music and history to its listeners (October, 1950).

1950s Tumbleweed, Inc. marketed these rambling weeds to the U.S. and abroad. A tumbleweed factory produced novel Christmas trees, wreaths and other ornaments for export using a special formula to mold them.

1959 Colorado City Museum was founded.

1963 Colorado City received its 79512 zip code.

1959-1964 Tumbleweed Festival was celebrated with extravagant parades, pageants, creative tumbleweed sculptures, fine food and impressive entertainment.

1975 The first senior class to graduate from the new Colorado High School.

1981 Mitchell County Centennial is celebrated in a grand fashion with camp meetings, style show, family picnic, fiddler contest and an Old Timer’s Reunion. A huge outdoor production at Wolf Stadium called “The Boom Town Review” was presented every night of that 1876 1877

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 7

history Continued 1994 1997

2006 2011 2014

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2021

TDCJ opened the 80 John Wallace Unit in Colorado City (May, 1994). The Dick Ware Unit followed in 1997.

There was a controversy over the cannon. The 1940 WWII German cannon was stolen from the Colorado City VFW Post and mysteriously reappeared at the Sweetwater VFW Post. After much dispute, the issue of ownership was settled by the Chief of the U.S. Army Re-Use group. The cannon was returned and currently resides at the Heart of West Texas Museum.

Colorado City became a proud Texas Main Street City.

A wildfire sweeps through northern Mitchell County, burning 13 homes and over 10,000 acres of land (February, 2011).

The City of Colorado City receives grant funding to under take a huge water/sewer line expansion, opening up the I-20 corridor for new business, something that should have been done many years prior. The projects also included building a new water tower on the northern edge of Colorado City to supply residents and businesses with better water pressure.

Construction of Mitchell County Law Enforcement Center is completed, and an open house is held before the jail officially opens in the summer (June 2014).

Construction of four hotels/motels begins, as developers get ready for workers who are said to be coming into town to build the FGE power plant.

The voter-approved construction of the Colorado Elementary and Colorado Middle School is finished. All students pre-k through 8th grade started school at the new campus in the fall.

Ty and Amie Wood take on the Herculean task of restoring Fisher Park to a functional public park on the clear water of Champion Creek Reservoir. The park officially re-opened in the spring and the lake is stocked by TPWD fisheries periodically. It is now considered one the best little fishing spots in West Texas.

Construction on La Quinta, Best Western Plus, Super 8 and Studio 6 is finished, giving work crews, tourists and other visitors nice options for overnight stays.

Voters chose to build a new skilled nursing and rehabilitation center in an election held in May.2020 Two first responders with ties to Colorado City were killed while working an accident in Lubbock County. Police officer Nick Reyna and Lubbock Fire and Rescue Lt. Eric Hill both died while working an accident in wintry conditions. In March of this year, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country, shutting down businesses and schools in the county.

The construction of the new skilled nursing facility began in January. The worst winter storm in decades hit the entire state of Texas in mid February. Local citizens lost power and water for several days.

8 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

History

Mitchell County, an unspoiled gem in West Texas Located about midway from Abilene and the sprawling Permian Basin oilfields, Mitchell County is one of the last unspoiled gems of West Texas, and home to some of the friendliest people in the southwestern United States.

Blessed with a rich history, Mitchell County is poised to be one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas within the next few decades thanks to its “elbow room,” as well its proximity to the metropolitan areas.

Formed in the late 1876, Mitchell County has its share of history, including being the home of the historic 80 John Wallace Ranch and the Spade Ranch. “80 John” was a former slave who later settled in the region and became one of the more prominent ranchers in the state.

In addition to its historic ranches, the county is also home to rich farming land, as well as productive oil and gas deposits. It is also home to three of the top school districts in West Texas in Colorado City, Westbrook and Loraine. All three offer world-class educational opportunities and expose students to the latest technology and state-of-the art facilities.

Home to just under 10,000 hardy souls, Mitchell County is also on the cutting edge of the ag science industry. Armed with thousands of cattle, sheep and other livestock, county residents are fully engaged with the farm and ranch industry.

As part of that, the county features a sizable 4-H presence that is backed by the Mitchell County Extension Office.

Life in Mitchell County is far more than oil, gas, farming and ranching on the wide-open plains. Residents of the area are also privy to some of the state’s top attractions and activities, including two lakes, a huge annual car show and an annual swine sale that draws breeders and showers from throughout the U.S. The CC Riders’ annual car show draws hundreds of entrants from throughout the southwestern U.S. to its summer event. Other major events happening in Mitchell County include the annual Run for the Wall

(veteran’s-based program), the J.O. Dockery July 4th Fly-In, and the annual World Championship Boar Goat Cook-Off. Lake Colorado City and Lake Champion offer world-class fishing and recreational opportunities. Fishing and boating are a must at both lakes.

Another huge attraction to Mitchell County are the world-class athletic fields. Colorado City is home to the Mitchell County Sports Complex, a state-of-the-art baseball and softball facility, as well as Wolf Stadium, Colorado Independent School District’s newly-renovated athletic stadium.

The county is also home to prized libraries that provides children’s programs and activities, reading materials and movies rentals for public use, as well as the prized Mitchell County Hospital District, which has been recognized in each of the the past six years as a National Critical Care Access hospital. The hospital district is in the process of a completing a multi-million dollar nursing home and physical rehabilitation center.

The county is also home to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Wallace Unit. The facility provides employment and housing to hundreds of residents in the area.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 9

Mitchell County Court House Third time was the charm for the Mitchell County Courthouse. After a second build by the architectural firm, Martin, Byrne & Johnson, the building served the county for almost 40 years. The present courthouse was finished in 1924. The courthouse is a 3-story dark brick stucture with limestone detailing, with a heavy first floor base that supports upper 2-story giant order ionic colonades and large “rivet” detailed cornice. The style is Classical Revival and was designed by architect David S. Castle.

Mitchell County -- Rich in History

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Historical Ranching World Class Education Two Lakes for Family Fun National Critical Care Access Hospital 80 John Wallace Prison Unit CONTACT US

MITCHELL COUNTY COURTHOUSE 349 Oak Street

Colorado City, TX

325-728-8439 Stakemann, M. Map of Mitchell County, Texas, map, Date Unknown; [Dallas, Texas]. (https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth493367

1 0 • Colorado City Rec ord 2 02 1 • Visitors & Newc omers Guide

History

There’s much history in the county’s cemeteries Mitchell County is home to many cemeteries where visitors can find the graves of relatives, soldiers from World War I and World War II and more. If you like history, a visit to the cemetery can provide interesting information.

The following is a list of cemeteries and their locations supplied by KikerSeale Funeral Home. Some of the cemeteries are in a different county but contain the graves of many Mitchell County citizens.

Colorado City Cemetery – 1901 W. I-20 Bus. On eastern edge of Colorado City at the intersection of Bus. 20 and S. Hwy. 208.

Cuthbert Cemetery – From Colorado City, go north on Hwy. 208 for 5.3 miles. Turn left (west) on FM 1808 and go 9.8 miles to the intersection of FM 1229. Turn right and the cemetery is about ½ mile down 1229. The cemetery sits about 100 yards off the road and is very easy to miss.

Dorn United Methodist Cemetery – From Colorado City, take I-20 west to FM 2836. Go south 4 miles. The cemetery sits on the west side of the road next to Dorn Chapel.

Dunn Cemetery, Scurry County – From Colorado City, take Hwy. 208 north. The cemetery is located on the east side of the highway.

Handley Cemetery – From Colorado City, take Bus. 20 west about 3 miles to FM 1229. Turn left and take FM 1229 north about 6 miles to the cemetery.

Hyman Cemetery – From Colorado City, take Hwy. 163 south 19 miles to FM 2183. Turn right and go west 8.6 miles. Cemetery sits on the north side of the road.

Iatan Cemetery – Take I-20 west to CR 270. Go through Lone Grove Community.

Lone Wolf Cemetery, Scurry County – From I-20 in Loraine, turn north

on FM 644 and go 8.4 miles. Cemetery is on your right about ½ mile past the Mitchell County line.

Loraine Cemetery – From Main Street in Loraine, go south, following road that goes west. Cemetery is about a mile south of Loraine on the west side of the road.

McKenzie Cemetery – Take S. Hwy. 208 from Colorado City, go south 21 miles. The cemetery sits on the east side of the road. The sign reads McKenzieville Cemetery.

New Hope Cemetery – Take I-20 to the Iatan Road exit, go north 2.9 miles. Go east on the first road after the Iatan Cemetery 2.1 miles. Cemetery sits off the road in a pasture on the north side and has a fence around it.

Spade Cemetery – From Westbrook on I-20, go south on FM 670 for 8.3 miles until you come to the intersection of Hwy. 163. Turn left (northeast) on Hwy. 163, go north to CR 337. Turn right (east) and go 1.4 miles. Cemetery is on your left.

Union Chapel Cemetery – Take CR 442 near Loraine off I-20. Go north 2 miles. The cemetery sits on the east side of the road with a fence around it.

White Church Cemetery – Take N. Hwy. 208, go 5 miles north to CR 145. Go east 2 miles. Cemetery sits on the north side of the road in a pasture.

Zion Rest Cemetery – Go north from Colorado City on N. Hwy. 208.

Turn east on FM 1982 at Buford. Go 4 miles. Cemetery sits on the south side of the road.

Wallace Ranch Cemetery – Take I-20 east to the Narrell Road exit (CR 424). Go south 1.2 miles. The cemetery sits on the west side of the road.

Westbrook Cemetery – From I-20 in Westbrook, turn south on FM 670.

Cemetery is about ¾ of a mile on your right.

It’s just a short drive to Snyder!

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12 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

HISTORY

Mitchell County is home to many historical markers

Mitchell County is home to many historical sites and some have been recognized with a Texas Historical Marker by the Texas Historical Commission.

Information on these sites was obtained from StoppingPoints.com.

Coleman Ranch Field Discovery Well – On FM 1229, approximately 20 miles north of Colorado City. Completion of the Westbrook Field T&P No. 1 oil well in 1920 signaled the beginning of commercial oil production in the Permian Basin.

Site of Town of Cuthbert – On FM 1229, 16 miles north of Colorado City.

Founded in 1890 by D.T. Bozeman, teacher and merchant, the town was named for his neighbor, T.T. Cuthbertson.

Handley Cemetery – On FM 1229, 9 miles north of Colorado City. Site given

by John J. Handley, Confederate veteran who settled here in 1892 after living in Georgia and Smith and Comanche Counties, Texas. In 1945, Mr. and Mrs. E.T. Strain gave one acre to enlarge the cemetery.

Site of Valley View School – On FM 1982, 8 miles north of Colorado City.

In 1905, nine men from the Lone Wolf Valley adopted plans for a community school. Named Valley View by S.H. Hart, it began under the direction of 19-year-old Aury Williams, the first teacher. Edmond Seymour donated land at this site for a one-room schoolhouse, constructed by W.D. McCarley, T.J. Coffee, A.J. Compton, J.B. Cranfill, J.H.T. Johnson, Billie Seymour and Willie Seymour.

Discovery Well of the Permian Basin – Located 2 miles west of Westbrook, the first commercial discovery oil well in the Permian Basin was named for W.H. Abrams, leasing agent for the Texas and Pacific land trust. The well first produced oil in February 1920 at a depth of 450 feet; but in June 1920, a better showing of oil was found at 2345-2410 feet. On July 16, 1920, the well was shot with nitroglycerin. As a crowd of 2,000 people looked on, a great eruption of oil, gas, water, and smoke shot from the mouth of the well almost to the top of the der-

rick. Shortly after, the well flowed at a rate of 129 barrels daily, but soon settled down to 20 barrels per day.

Site of Westbrook School and Church – On FM 670 in Westbrook, these two pioneer institutions, which began even before the town grew up here, were first housed in the same tiny, one-room building. The structure was erected in 1890 by local settlers when Westbrook was only a flag-stop on the Texas & Pacific Line.

Site of Conaway School – On CR 266 and CR 262, off FM 670, in community opened in 1891 by settlers C.P. and Mattie Conaway. First 3-months session was held in 1896 for nine pupils from three families, in one-room building placed by Conaway south of his ranch house.

Union Methodist Church – On FM 2836, 7 miles from Westbrook. Organized March, 1891, by Rev. J.W. Montgomery. First church built by J.M. Dorn and neighbors.

Spade Community Cemetery – At the intersection of SH 163 and CR 337 south of Colorado City, this cemetery began as a family graveyard on the farm of R.F. (1868-1927) and Addie (1872-1956) Hargrove, when their infant son died in April 1898. The Hargroves gave 2.5 acres of land surrounding their son’s grave to the Spade Community for cemetery and school purposes.

Renderbrook Ranch – On SH 163. Founded in buffalo and Indian days of 1870’s by Taylor Barr. Owned 1882-1889 by D.H. and J.W. Snyder. They built White House headquarters; sold ranch, 1889 to Isaac L. Ellwood, an inventor of barbed wire, in DeKalb, Illinois. Ellwood paid in wire for Spade cattle from Donley County, to stock the ranch.

Plainview Baptist Church – On SH 163 4 miles south of Colorado City.

Begun as a mission of the Spade Community’s Liberty Baptist Church, this fellowship met as early as 1906 in the Plainview Community Schoolhouse. On See more Historical Markers, page 13

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Historical Markers continued May 16, 1908, an organizational meeting was held to establish an independent congregation that became known as Plainview Baptist Church.

The 96 Ranch – On CR 121, 5 miles south of Colorado City. Cattlemen began settling Mitchell County in the late 1870s, before the arrival of businessmen and farmers. This marker stands on one of the area’s important early ranches, the 96 Ranch, founded by James Durham Wulfjen (1845-1933). Wulfjen was a merchant in Round Rock before he visited Mitchell County in 1884.

Seven Wells – 6 miles south of Colorado City on SH 208. This area, now covered by Lake Champion, was once the site of springs that originated from underground water which also supplied Champion Creek. They were called wells because the Seven Spring Basins closely resembled man-made wells.

D.W. 80 John Wallace – On CR 424 2 miles east of Loraine. Born to slave parents in Victoria County, Wallace became a cowboy at age 15 and rode from Mexico to Kansas. He came to Mitchell County in 1877, riding for Clay Mann, whose 80 brand gave him a name for the rest of his life. He left Mann’s ranch to make one of his own in 1891. He eventually had fine cattle and crops on 12.5 sections of land, and there was also oil found on his property.

Lone Wolf Mountain – The marker is on FM 644 at the Loraine Cemetery. The mountain was named for the Chief of the Kiowa Indians. He was held hostage

by General Custer and later released. He swore revenge on the white man after his son was killed. As he fled from the U.S. Cavalry, he buried the remains of family members on the mountain.

First Baptist Church – Marker is at the corner of Lightfoot and Market St. in Loraine. The church was organized in 1892 before town lots were sold. Services were held in a schoolhouse for 14 years. The church was first built in 1907.

First State Bank – Marker is at the corner of Main and Pacific in Loraine. A leader in area growth, the bank was organized with a capital of $18,000 in 1908.

Farmers and cattlemen were in majority as stockholders.

Colorado City Standpipe – On SH 208 just south of Colorado City.

William Marion Green – Colorado City Cemetery. An orphan at age 7, Green learned self-reliance early. At 20, he enlisted in Co. A of the Frontier Battalion. In 1874, his company helped capture members of John Wesley Hardin’s gang who were raiding Comanche County; Green helped escort seven of the outlaws to jail.

Y.D. McMurry – Colorado City Cemetery. Born in Tennessee and raised in Fort Worth, McMurry joined Co. B, Frontier Battalion of the Texas Rangers in 1882.

He served under his brother, Capt. Sam McMurry. He enforced law in the Colorado City area and served as Mitchell County Sheriff from 1892 to 1898.

Ruddick Park – Marker at 7th and Houston in Colorado City. The land was given to the city in 1929 in memory of pioneer William Penn Ruddick, farmer and dairyman, and Mrs. Ruddick. In 1840, Col. John Henry Moore and 90 Indian fighters wiped out a Comanche village on the Colorado nearby. The creek that runs through the park was named for Chief Lone Wolf of the Kiowas, who camped along the creek banks.

E.M. Hardigree Home – 305 Hickory, Colorado City. Built in 1890 by H.D. Shepperd. Sold in 1899 to Martin Dies, Sr. Birthplace of Martin Dies, Jr., famous U.S. Congressman. Home of colorful early-day ranch couple, G.W. and Alice Garrett Plaster, Mitchell County ranchers for over 50 years.

Dr. Preston C. Coleman – Born in Tennessee, Dr. Coleman came to Colorado City in 1883. He rode horseback or by buggy to ranches within a 100-mile radius to get to ailing patients. He was a celebrated surgeon and doctor, practicing here the rest of his life.

Buffalo Trails – 3rd and Chestnut, Colorado City. Buffalo tracks, originally formed in soft dirt, were taken from an ancient buffalo trail which once guided herds to water at Champion Creek, six miles south.

All Saints’ Church – 3rd and Locust, Colorado City. The church was started as an outgrowth of 1882 place of worship by laymen (mostly sheep-ranching Englishmen).

John C. Prude Home – 334 E. 4th St., Colorado City. A prominent rancher and banker, John C. Prude (1856-1924) came to Mitchell County before the turn of the century. In 1907 he hired J.E. (Gene) Pond to construct this spacious brick house.

Majors Home – 425 Chestnut, Colorado City. Also known as the Heritage House, the Majors’ home was one of the first brick houses built here. It was built in 1883 by Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Hodgson, son-in-law and daughter of Gen. Tom Green.

First Presbyterian Church – Chestnut and 5th, Colorado City. On the second Sunday of January, 1881, The Rev. O.F. Rogers, a Presbyterian minister and school teacher from Mississippi, preached the first sermon ever heard in Colorado (City). The congregation met in a saloon, only large place in the tent town. The bar was covered with wagon sheets and after the sermon, a collection was taken for the minister. A dug-out, floored with corn sacks and equipped See more Historical Markers, page 14

14 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

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SPARKS TRADING POST

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When you can’t find it anywhere else, come to

Sparks Trading Post!

Located on 2nd Street in Downtown Colorado City

Historical Markers continued with boxes for seats, housed the first formal church, organized in May with 11 charter members.

Old D.N. Arnett Home – 685 Chestnut St., Colorado City. Built in 1899 by rancher F.E. McKenzie; Victorian architecture features porch columns with spool trim and decorative wood awnings over the windows. Sold in 1900 to A.B. Robertson, rancher; in 1912, to D.N. Arnett, retired manager of the Great Spade-Renderbrook Ranch.

F.M. Burns Home – 304 4th Street, Colorado City.

First Methodist Church - 333 Chestnut, Colorado City.

First Baptist Church of Colorado City - 3rd and Chestnut St., Colorado City.

Founded as a mission station in 1881 by The Rev. George W. Baines (18091882), a former President of Baylor University and in 1880s a Baptist State Convention agent. The Rev. Peter Turner, an Englishmen, organized the church in 1882. Building site was donated by U.S. Senator and ex-Governor of Georgia Joseph E. Brown, a Texas & Pacific Railroad investor, developer of Colorado town site. A.W. Dunn, J.T. Hutchins, J.B. Putnam, Alf H.H. Tolar, and G.W. Waddell were church trustees.

Texas & Pacific Railway – Elm and 2nd St., Colorado City. Railroad made this town the Cattle Capital of West Texas in the 1880s. Cattlemen Frank Byler, Clay Mann, Winfield Scott, C.C. Slaughter and others brought herds here early as 1877, when last of the buffalo were being exterminated. A Texas Ranger unit was stationed in area to guard against straggling Indians. After Texas & Pacific locators staked course through this valley, rancher George Waddell persuaded A.W. Dunn of Coleman to build a store here.

Colorado City Opera House – Walnut St., Colorado City. Built by Colorado Opera House Company, 1899-1900; second opera house in city, then cultural center of West Texas. Staged light opera, vaudeville, silent movies (after 1911); also hosted school programs. Converted to boarding house in 1925, it returned to original use in 1971.

The Founding of Colorado City – Oak and 3rd St, Colorado City. Colorado was founded in 1880 at the cross of the Colorado River and Texas & Pacific Railroad right-of-way. It was a shipping point and supply depot for the sprawling cattle ranches of west Texas and New Mexico. From 1880 (when A.W. Dunn opened his dirt-floor, tent-roof general store) to 1890 the boisterous cattle town garnered notoriety as well as fame. The largest community between Fort Worth and El Paso, Colorado City had more millionaires than any other Texas town and the most saloons in the West. Law and order was housed in a dugout at the edge of town, where a company of Texas Rangers made all men check their guns.

Modest, courageous Ranger Dick Ware was elected first sheriff in 1881. Population soared from 700 to 5,000 in the first two years, as cowboys, cattlemen, merchants, and (as a visitor said) any number of bummers, vied for space. The first sermon was preached in a saloon and the town jail was a chain attached to a mesquite tree, but citizens could find beauty in the lantern-glow from dozens of tents in the center of town. Although drought and the passing of the open range soon diminished Colorado City’s glory, its first decade won for it the epithet, Mother City of West Texas.

Colorado City Cemetery – cemetery entrance facing Business I-20 in Colorado City. The cemetery came into existance in 1881. The earliest grave there is of Clint Mooney. The entry was built in 1928.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 15

16 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Venues

Former laundry becomes beautiful local venue The Copper Press is the premier event center in Colorado City, located at 401 Oak. The truth is that it is a historic building that has been turned into a spectacular venue by Robert and Cherry Hoback, longtime local business owners.

The building got a fresh coat of charcoal paint in early May and has been featured on @ weddingchicks on Instagram.

The Copper Press is definitely a new venue, but its roots go way back. In May 1929, J. Ralph Lee, Mary Lee and Irma Lee bought two lots at 4th and Oak. F.H. Strong built a building that housed Colorado Steam Laundry which opened August 1, 1929.

The laundry was open for business until the late 1960s, and the 85-year-old building has served many purposes in Colorado City since that time.

Cherry said that the structure with an open floor plan once housed an auto mechanic shop and was also a pottery business owned by members of the Barber family. Proof of the pottery business is still evident

today, as pottery mud still adorns the windows.

Renovations began immediate after the Hobacks purchased the building in 2013. The aging roof was replaced, new electrical and plumbing was added, a wall was rebuilt inside and a new concrete floor was poured.

A crystal chandelier is a focal point in the interior. The six-foot light fixture was shipped to the Hobacks in many pieces and took three days to assemble.

The location is complete with three French doors that open into an outdoor lawn that is perfect for weddings, garden parties or dining alfresco. The outdoor area is completely enclosed with a privacy fence.

Cherry said the Copper Press has served as the location for weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, political gatherings, birthday parties, family reunions, class reunions, quinceñeras, and organization fundraisers, as well as others.

Another feature is Flowers by Cherry, as Hoback has an eye for design and decoration and can provide fresh flowers for any occasion.

Also available for any occasion is the Oh Snap Photo Booth. It’s a mint condition red VW Bus that can be decorated any way you want for those special photographs!

Certain amenities were added during the renovation that adds ease to hosting gatherings of all sorts. A commercial kitchen was added which sports a convection oven, conventional oven, warming oven, ice maker and place settings for over 300 people.

For more information about the Copper Press, contact Cherry at 325-242-1442 or Robert at 325-728-5071.

Anchored Soul

Offering unique womens clothing and accessories

,

“Shop therapy for the female soul” 136 Walnut Colorado City 325-728-8008

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors Colorado City Record 2018 · Visitors& &Newcomers NewcomersGuide Guide• · 17 17

Copper Press 401 Oak, Colorado City 325-242-1442

A unique venue to host your Family Reunions, Quinceañera, Bridal/Baby Showers, Company Events/Dinners, Birthday Parties, Weddings and Receptions in an historic building.

18 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Venues

Historic Opera House construction began in 1899 The lights go down and the spotlight beams on the stage, as the historic Colorado City Opera House comes to life for yet another event. It is located at 337 Walnut Street in downtown Colorado City.

Construction of the historic venue began in 1899 and featured light opera, vaudeville acts and silent movies after 1911. Although it was sold and converted to a boarding house in 1925 as the Great Depression of the 20s and 30s took its toll on the country, Colorado City’s residents restored it to its original purpose during the mid-20th century.

Community leaders, businessmen, teachers and students joined forces in 2008 to restore the venue as close as possible to its historical appearance. Walls were refurbished and the inside was adorned with decorations to stay true to the historical period.

Today, the opera house is home to a variety of shows that draw large crowds. The venue is also supported by donations, hotel/motel tax allocations from the City of Colorado City and revenue from performances.

Country-western music fans gather for what’s known as the C-City Opry, as Doyle Mitchell and his Kickin’ Kountry Band per-

form with invited guests and local talent. Comedy fans have come together for a performance

by Tumbleweed Smith. The stage has been home to performances of plays performed by high school students, as well as adult community members.

Touring shows, such as Greater Tuna have also been seen at the opera house, citizens have received behind the scenes tours, and the venue has also been home to the Christian youth rally, Disciple Now. Colorado City natives and musicians Jay Boy Adams and Bill Worrell have also rocked the opera house stage more than once.

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Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 19

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20 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Travel

Local airport surpasses most of small town facilities The Colorado City Airport has always been used, but development of the facility by the city recently is taking the aging airport in a whole new direction. The runway makes C-City’s airport special, as it was designed and constructed to allow for heavier transport planes over 60 years ago.

In the near future, the airport will be home to hangars that allow for storage, and the process of developing an airplane repair shop and fueling station is already underway.

Besides the new development, the facility is home to a special event. It started as a commemoration of Colorado City’s new airport in 1946. It quickly grew into an annual celebration of aeronautics and flying enthusiasts.

The J. O. Dockrey July 4th Fly-In draws old and young

alike from all parts of the country, including Anchorage, Alaska.

Named after J. O. Dockrey, the driving force behind the event since its beginning, the fly-in features a variety of planes, from bi-planes and Stearmans to Cessnas, WWII craft and home-built P-38 planes. It is the longest running consecutive fly-in in the state of Texas.

Famed author and pilot Nancy Masters is always in attendance to hand out awards.

Each year, an old-fashioned breakfast, cooked and served

by City National Bank employees, starts the day off right for pilots and town folks alike.

The event is held on the morning of July 4th starting at 7 a.m. and is a great way to celebrate Independence Day with the freedom of flight.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 21

Welcome Newcomers and Visitors to Colorado City and Mitchell County!

We are happy to be a part of the Colorado City and Mitchell County Community!

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22 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

AttrActions ctions

Ever-changing Fisher Park enjoyed by young and old Located 8 miles south of Colorado City, Champion Creek Reservoir is West Texas’ “favorite fishing hole”. Fisher Park is a 30-acre campground operated by the City of Colorado City on the south shore of the 1200+ acre lake.

Excellent bass, catfish, and crappie fishing is the main attraction.

The lake was recently selected as one of only 18 official weighing sites for the Toyota Sharelunker Program in the State of Texas. Largemouth bass over 8 pounds are routinely caught.

Jet skis, water skiing and wake boarding are not allowed, giving the lake a uniquely peaceful environment for fishing, sailing, kayaking, and cruising.

Other amenities include a sandy beach with grass palapa shades, boat ramps, a cedar wood dock and a campground.

Kayaks, paddle boats, standup pad-

dle boards, inner tubes and canvas bell tents big enough for the whole family are available for rent. The Park is also available for special events.

Season passes cost $75 dollars per vehicle and $20 per boat. Day use fees for those who do not wish to purchase a season pass are $8 per person and $5 per boat. Mitchell County residents over 65 and children under 12 are free. Gate hours are 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Go to www.visitchampion.com, the Lake Champion Fisher Park Facebook page or call (325) 242-9023 for more information.

P J’s WRECKER SERVICE Serving Mitchell County for 25 years

1529 E. I-20 Business Colorado City

325-728-2737

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 23

Lake Champion Fisher Park

Seaso n Passe Avail s able

Questions?

Call 325-242-2093, Message us on FACEBOOK, or check us out at www.visitchampion.com

Sun Sand Water Fish

Catch some rays on our large sandy beach Relax under our grass palapas Rent our kayaks, paddleboats or standup paddleboats Catch, bass, catfish at West Texas’ favorite fishing destination

Located 7.8 miles south of Colorado City, TX. Turn west on County Road 123, right at the first stop sign, then immediately left after the small bridge. Turn right at the next stop sign and follow the road to a large entrance gate with double crossed hooks. JUST FOLLOW THE RED HOOK ARROWS.

24 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

History

Step back into history with a tour through the museum

T h e Heart of West Texas Museum building, located at the corner of 3rd and Locust in Colorado City, was once the home of Dr. P.C. Coleman who arrived here with his family in 1882 not long after Mitchell County was founded. The two-story home, along with the new garage annex, is home to hundreds of exhibits reflecting the history of this area and the families who made it their home.

Exhibits pay tribute to a prehistoric bison and mammoth, whose bones were found within the county lines, and Kiowa Chief Lone Wolf welcomes visitors to learn about his contribution to Mitchell County’s history.

A new and very popular exhibit is the KVMC Radio exhibit with interactive listening of previously recorded interviews by the station’s late owner and operator, Jim Baum.

In addition to the two floors of exhibits, the museum is also home to a newly-opened annex. The huge former garage area was cleaned out and enclosed to make room for new exhibits. The space houses a 1924 Ameri-

can Le France fire engine, 1877 military hearse, educational displays from area schools, medical memorabilia and an antique mail baggage cart among other things.

Many families have donated items to remind visitors of days gone by, such as working rug weaving looms on the second floor and a huge mural painted by a local artist.

Visitors are invited to come in for a tour or to wander around at their own pace to get a glimpse of Mitchell County’s heritage. The museum is open Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. There is no charge for admittance, although donations are accepted to help fund future projects.

Check out the Heart of West Texas Museum Facebook page, visit the website www.heartofwesttexasmuseum.org or call 325-728-8285 for more information.

Tour the Heritage House, built with local clay bricks In its 128-year history, Colorado City has been shaped by many great men and women.

Few, however, were as famous, well-connected and wealthy as the builder of the Heritage House, Colonel Jeremiah P. Hodgson. His home at 425 Chestnut St. is a testament to those who came to West Texas, not just on their way somewhere else, but to leave something valuable behind.

He was known as a Virginia gentleman and much of the house he built reflects the architectural style of that area, with its wrap around porch, separate kitchen, front parlor, family sitting room, fireplaces, and breezeways.

Heritage House was the first brick house built in Colorado City, but even the bricks have a story to tell. They are made from clay found in the bed and along the banks of the Colorado

River.

Although the house has been home to many respected citizens in its century and a quarter existence, including Winfield Scott, millionaire rancher; W.T. Scott, promoter of the T&P Railroad; and Dr. Oscar Majors, local physician;

the Heritage House owes its preservation to the late Marian Bassham of the Spade Ranch, who bought it for the purpose of restoration. It became a Texas Historic Landmark in 1966 and was added to the National Register in 1979 through the efforts of the late J. Lee Jones Jr., who wrote and edited Lore and Legend, a compilation of Mitchell County’s history. Mrs. Bassham presented the house as a gift to Colorado City in 1987.

As of late, the beautiful, historic home has been the venue of weddings, receptions, fundraisers and other notable events.

The house, with its beautiful period furnishings, can be viewed by appointment by calling the Heart of West Texas Museum at (325) 728-8285, and can be leased for special events including garden weddings for a reasonable fee.

st:

h

tage

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 25

Heart of West Texas Museum

340 East 3rd Street Colorado City, TX 325-728-8285 rd 340 East 3 St. Hours: Tuesday-Friday, noon - 5 p.m.; Special tours available by appointment.

Hours: Tuesday-Friday, Noon to 5:00 pm Special tours available by appointment www.heartofwesttexasmuseum Bison pic

325-728-8285

Lone Wolf pic Activities: Trick or Treat Around Town Event and Benefits School Tours and Programs Heritage House available for tours and event rental

Exhibits of Interest: Prehistoric Mammoth Prehistoric Bison Chief Lone Wolf Activities: Caboose  House Trick or Treat Around Town Heritage Surrey  Events and Benefits Early Day Firetruck Ranching & Farming Heritage  School Tours and Programs Antique Switchboard  Heritage House available for War & Military Effects 1870 Hearse tours and event rental KVMC Radio Local Historical Research Sports Memorabilia Caboose pic

Exhibits of Inte

Prehistoric Mamm

26 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

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Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 27

ADVERTISER INDEX Advertiser

Page # Advertiser

ABSTRACT COMPANIES Texas Lone Star Title 18 ACCOUNTANTS Ron McClung, CPA, LLC 10 ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES Sparks Trading Post 14 ATTORNEYS Sterling Burleson 43 Ty Wood 42 AUTOMOTIVE PARTS Automart Part Plus 35 Heady Auto Parts 54 AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR / BODY WORK Discount Tire 32 Joe’s Automotive 52 Matlock 50 PJ’s Wrecker Service 22 BOOTS Wood’s Boots 19 BOUTIQUES Anchored Soul 16 Somethin’ Girlie 7 CONVENIENCE STORES Chisum Travel Center 5 Gas ‘n’ Grub 2 DRY CLEANING Lone Star Dry Cleaners 48 EMBROIDERY & SCREEN PRINTING Texas Caps & T-Shirts 20 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Mitchell County 9 FEED/SEED/FARM SUPPLY Double M Feed 40 Nutrien 4 FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS City National Bank 56 FirstBank & Trust 12 PrimeWest 54 FLORISTS / NURSERY Stacie’s Creations 42 FUNERAL HOME Kiker-Seale Funeral Home 31 GROCERY STORES Lowe’s Market 21 HEALTHCARE Bennett Chiropractic Clinic 43 Mitchell County Hospital 45

INSURANCE First Service Insurance Lynch Insurance Agency Ratliff Insurance LAUNDROMATS Scrubadubdudz LIQUOR STORES B’s Beverage Barn LUMBER & HARDWARE Higginbotham Bros. Ace Hardware MUSEUMS Heart of West Texas Museum OFFICE SUPPLIES C-City Printing & Office Supplies OPTOMETRIST McAndrews Eye Clinic ORGANIZATIONS Colorado City Area Chamber of Commerce PARKS & RECREATION Lake Champion Fisher Park PHARMACIES / GIFT SHOPS Corner Drug & Paisley Nest Gift Shop The Medicine Place & Gift Shop REAL ESTATE Neff’s Mesquite Ridge Realty Texas Home Town Real Estate RESTAURANTS Bigg’s Pizza Cactus Cafe Dairy Queen Hidalgo’s Restaurant Kelley Cafe Mary’s Cafe Mi Ranchito Santiago’s Family Diner Sonic RV PARKS Cherry Street RV Park SCHOOLS Colorado ISD Loraine ISD Westbrook ISD Western Texas College SEPTIC SYSTEMS Champion Septic Systems VENUES Copper Press VETERINARIANS Mitchell County Vet Clinic

Page # 52 12 32 14 10 55 25 20 46 3 23 11 15 54 33 36 36 37 38 37 39 37 38 39 34 47 49 51 53 41 17 46

28 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Lake Colorado City

State Park

To I-20

PLEASE NOTE • All vehicles must be parked in designated areas only.

• CHECK OUT time is 12 p.m. or renew permit by 9 a.m. (pending site availability).

N

• Public consumption or display of any alcoholic beverage is prohibited.

• A maximum of eight people permitted per campsite.

Guests must leave the park by 10 p.m. Quiet time from 10 p.m. – 6 a.m.

• GRAY WATER AND BLACK WATER MUST BE DISCHARGED ONLY AT DUMP STATIONS. • Only one unit per site is permitted to hook up to utilities.

• Pets must be kept on leash. Please pick up after them.

Gate Closes at 10 p.m.

• Gathering of firewood is prohibited.

• Campfires are permitted only in fire rings provided at each site.

WATER ACTIVITIES • Swim at your own risk. NO LIFEGUARD on duty.

• No pets or glass containers are allowed in swimming area.

BOAT LAUNCH PROTOCOL • Have your vessel ready to launch before getting to ramp area.

Launch your vessel and clear the ramp area. Do not block ramp area. No boat clean-up or swimming are allowed in the ramp area.

• If your vessel will not start, clear the ramp area.

FM 2836

• Children must be supervised by an adult who can swim.

5

Mesquite Circle Camping Area

• Personal watercraft are not allowed in the swimming area and must observe the No Wake rules, particularly in the boat-launch area. Personal watercraft are not allowed to tie up in boat-launch area.

7 9 11

3

1

60 67 64 62 66 58 615956 68 57 70 63 4 54 8 72 47 65 50 51 74 5 76 75 69 44 78 53 71 46 49 40 52 77 73 45 37 33 35 41 43 42 127 31 39 29 36 38 128 27 28 Rolling Hills 1m 25 26 Camping Area

86 4 2 10 34 12 14 32 16 30 18 20 22 13 15 1719 23 21 24

163

1.8 miles

Lake Colora

TEXAS

& Colorado City

• Stop the spread of invasive species.

CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY your boat.

TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommo information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TTY) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989 or by email at accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov. If you believ discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls

© 2021 TPWD PWD MP P4506-096E (2/21)

Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 29

TexasStateParks.org/App

#TxStateParks #BetterOutside

TexasStateParks.org/SocialMedia

LEGEND CR 258

CR 262

CR 252

Headquarters

To I-20

CR 254

Restrooms

CR 248

CR 256

Lake Colorado City State Park

Showers

FM 2836

Water Only Sites olo

TEXAS

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CR 307

Mor g Pow an Cre er P ek lant 163

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Cabins Recreation Hall Interpretive Trail Picnic Area Group Picnic Pavilion

Cabin Area

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60 8

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97 98 95 99

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78

Sites with 50 AMP Hookups

orado City

ccommodation or obtain u believe you have been ke, Falls Church, VA 22041.

Wildlife Department.

4582 F.M. 2836 Colorado City, TX 79512 (325) 728-3931

PARK RESERVATIONS TexasStateParks.org ParquesDeTexas.org (512) 389-8900

Proud Sponsor of Texas State Parks

30 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

AttrActions

Lake Colorado City State Park offers fun for everyone Camping, bird watching, hiking, kayaking, and canoeing

Lake Colorado City State Park is 500 acres of grassland savannah with dense patches of mesquite and prickly pear bordering a lake on Morgan Creek watershed. The park is located in the Mesquite Plains, a subdivision of the western Rolling Plains.

Originally, it was an open grassland with a scattered, often localized, woody plant population.

The park’s location is in a dividing location for eastern and western species of birds and winters waterfowl in the thousands that travel through the prairie potholes of the Central Flyway during migration. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded within the park boundaries along with many reptiles, amphibians, and many species of mammals.

Containing more than five miles of shoreline, Colorado City State Park has plenty of room for

hiking, kayaking and camping. Admission to the park is $4 for persons 13-64. Seniors 65 or older enter for $2. Children 12 and under have free admission.

Texas State Park Passes can be purchased for $70 annually, guaranteeing the pass holder free entrance to all Texas State Parks, along with other benefits.

The park’s features include a 75-person capacity recreation hall available for rent at $200 per day. The hall would make a great spot for any gathering, as it has a large seating area, a full commercial kitchen, restroom, tables, chairs, air conditioner, and a large barbeque pit outside on the patio.

There is also an open-air pavilion near the ramp, which is available for reservation at $40 per day. Rental of the pavilion includes use of stand-up grills, picnic tables, water spouts and

lighting.

The 11 cabins available for rent brings the total campsites available to 112. The cost of a cabin is $60 per night, plus tax. Cabins have two twin-over-full bunk beds, heater/air conditioning, microwave, small refrigerator, a table with four chairs inside, picnic table under a shelter, as well as electricity and water hookups for camper on the parking pad just outside.

Hook-ups and campsites for RVs and travel trailers are also available.

Sites with both electricity and water cost $20-$22 per day, while sites with water only cost $15 per day.

The park has 43 campsites with water, 30 amp electricity, parking pad, fire ring and a table under a shelter. There are 26 campsites with 50 amp electricity, 34 campsites with water only, and nine with pull-through camping pads, electricity and water.

For the convenience of campers, there are also four restrooms with showers, one restroom without showers in the day-use area, and two trailer dump stations.

The park also features two lakeside hiking trails. The Catus Trail is 1-mile in length. The Roadrunner Trail is a 1.8-mile loop trail/ Double and single kayaks are available for rent to add to visitors’ fun.

Lake Colorado City State Park is located 11 miles southwest of Colorado City on County Road 2836.

For more information, contact the state park at (325) 728-3931.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 31

Kiker-Seale Funeral Home Proudly Serving Mitchell County Since 1926

Call today to schedule your appointment! ~ Payment plan options are available ~

Licensed Prearrangement Specialist

Annette Rivera annette.rivera@dignitymemorial.com www.prepaidfunerals.texas.gov

Kiker-Seale Funeral Home offers a variety of services for celebrating the life of your loved one.

We can accommodate all of your family’s needs for burial, cremation, or prearranged funeral services.

Our wonderful staff is ready to provide a dignified service with care and professionalism.

Location Manager, Richard Neu, has celebrated 20 years of service with Service Corporation International in 2021 and is proud to serve in Mitchell County for the last six years.

32 • Colorado City R ecord 2021 • V isitors & Newcomers Guide

FUN

World Championship Boer Goat Cookoff brings cooks to local park If you’re a true pitmaster, you can cook just about anything outdoors.

Well, the Colorado City Volunteer Fire Department has a true test for you!

Each year, the CCVFD holds the World Championship Boer Goat Cookoff, a big fundraiser for the fire department, in October. The event is held right in the center of Colorado City’s historic Ruddick Park, and teams from all over the state come to try their hand at being named a world champion cook.

The goat cook-off features up to 50 teams of cooks competing for the prize money and bragging rights to the most delicious goat!

If you’re not sure about cooking goat, there are several other categories to enter. Jackpot contests include beans, brisket, ribs and dessert. There’s only one catch: you must do your cooking on-site.

Teams begin arriving on Friday to set up camp. Local citizens enjoy coming out and visiting with the cooks as they prepare their entries, which are turned in for judging on Saturday.

For more information on the cookoff, call the Colorado City Fire Department at 325-728-5252.

q uality auto parts. premium tires. unbeatable prices. top-notch service.

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Quick Oil Change Brakes Mufflers New & Used Tires Batteries And Much More Complete Brake & Alignment Specialists Flats Fix ed

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Spiritual Heart Colorado City All Saints Episcopal Church, 304 Locust, 325-728-2243 Plainview Church of Christ, 2209 S. Hwy 163 Days of Grace Chapel, 1400 Elm (inside Kelly Building), 325-728-5235 St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 2005 Walnut, 325-728-3252 Dorn United Methodist Chapel, FM 2836, Off I-20 Calvary Baptist Church, 1025 E. 15th St., 325-728-2262 Christian Fellowship Church, 1357 FM 2836 Christian Temple, 1927 Hickory St., 325-728-5944 Church of Christ, 2239 Austin St., 325-728-3181 First Assembly of God, 830 E. 17th St., 325-728-2187 First Baptist Church, 301 Chestnut St., 325-728-3442 First United Methodist Church, 333 Chestnut St., 325-728-5296 House of Hope Community Church, 200 W. 17th St., 325-728-5900 New Life Bible Ministries, 17th & Hickory, 325-728-2119 New Mount Zion Baptist Church, 1404 College Ave., 325-728-3006 St. James Baptist Church, 804 E. 5th St., 325-728-9118 Primera Iglesia Bautista El Calvario, 1635 Walnut St., 325-728-2855 Jesus Name Pentecostal Church, 5298 S. Hwy. 163, 325-207-7004 Oak Street Baptist Church, 805 Oak St., 325-728-2062

33 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

40 •· Colorado City Record 2021 2018 •· Visitors & Newcomers Guide 34

FUN

World Championship Boer Goat classic cars Spiritual Heart Annual car show features Cookoff brings cooks to local park

10 Reasons Why You Should Want to Live in Mitchell County…

Colorado City

1. Home of some of the friendliest If cars cause your heart to race like a supercharged hot From classics to muscle cars, enthusiasts can line up rod, then Colorado City will seem like paradise to you the along Hickory on Friday and enjoy the sights during the people in West Texas! second weekend of June during the CC Riders Sonic Cruise Sonic Cruise. Tune your radio to 107.1 to AllKVMC/KAUM Saints Episcopal Church, 304 Locust, 325-728-2243 2. Churches and charitable orgayou’re andIfCar Show.a true pitmaster, you can cook just about anything outdoors. get in the mood, Church as a radio nizations Plainview of show Christ, 2209 S. Hwyalways 163 ready to extend a Well, the Riders Colorado City Fire Department has a true test for you!with music from the 50s, 60s and th helping hand!

The CC annual car Volunteer show Presbyterian Church, 5 & Chestnut, 325-728-5235 usually an CCVFD abundanceholds of the World Championship Boer Goat Coo70s fillsFirst the airwaves.

Eachfeatures year, the 3. Good restaurants… Nothing fancy, St. Ann’s Catholic Church, classic, antique and novelty cars Bring your favorite hot rod, in- 2005 Walnut, 325-728-3452 koff, a big fundraiser for the fire department, in October. The event is held just good old home-cookin’ tasty! from all over the southwestern dulge in some summer cruising, Dorn United Methodist Chapel,4.FM 2836, Off I-20 right in the center of Colorado City in Ruddick Park, and Teams from all Spectacular sunsets and night U.S. and compete for the title of King th Calvary Baptist Church, 1025 E. 15 St., stars 325-728-2262 over the state come to try their hand at being named a world champion skies with so bright you want to The show, which is used to raise and Queen of the Road. The car Christian Fellowship Church, 1357 cook.for college scholarships for reachFM out2836 and touch them! funds show gets underway on Saturday The goat cook-off Mitchell County seniors, features is one of up to 50 teams of cooks competing for the with prizes for the Top 1927 20 cars Christian Temple, Hickory 325-728-5944 5. St., Good schools that provide safe the largest in West Last year, determined by votes from2239 the enprize money andTexas. bragging rights to the most delicious goat! for students to learn Church of Christ, Austin atmospheres St., 325-728-3181 theIfshow raised funds cooking to give 12goat, graduates trants themselves. th prepare for the future! you’re notenough sure about there$1,000 are several other categories to and First Assembly of God, 830 E. 17 St., 325-728-2187 scholarships.

Glass trophies presented for Best of Show, Best 6. Excellent hospital, medical staff enter. Jackpot contests include beans, brisket, ribs and dessert.

There’sare only FirstBest Baptist Church, 301 Chestnut St., 325-728-3442 The CC Riders, a group of Mopar, Best Ford, Best GM and of the Rest, while and facilities, including a brand new one catch: you must do your cooking local car enthusiasts, hold the spectators select the People’s Choice First award.

United Methodist Church,family 333 Chestnut St., 325-728-5296 clinic! car show in andon-site. around the From movie cars to works inHouse progress, it’s a feast for car Church, 200 W. 17th St., 325-728-5900 of Hope Community 7. Home of the Lady Wolves’ Class Railhead Building Teams in downenthusibegin arriving on Friday Kingdom Hall ofasts.

Jehovah Witnesses, 528team!

Austin,The 325-728-8088 2A softball team is a pertown Coloradoto City.

The Visit set up camp. Local citizens enjoy Lighthouse Tabernacle, 835 Pine St.,West 337-309-0427 renial Texas powerhouse. event also includes a “Sonic with ownout and visiting with the outdoor activities, Cruise” in whichcoming the automoers and 17th 8.

New Life Bible Ministries, & Abundant Hickory, 325-728-2119 cooks they prepare their entries, bile owners parade theiras cars d i s c o v e rChurch, including hunting,Ave., fishing, high school New Mount Zion Baptist 1404 College 325-728-3006 up and down the mainare dragturned in for judging on why the which sports, th a nine-hole golf course and St. James Baptist E. 5 St., 325-728-9118 in town, and citizens bring out CCChurch, Riders 804more!

Saturday.

Primera Iglesia Car Bautista 1635 Walnut St., 325-728-2855 their lawn chairs to line up on ShowEl Calvario, 9. Active civic clubs, senior citizen more Hickory Street andFor watch the information on the coois one-of- Church, 5298 S. Hwy. 163, 325-207-7004 Jesus Name Pentecostal groups and youth sports associations! koff, call the Colorado City Fire Derides roll by. a-kind.

Oak Street Baptist Church, 805 St., 325-728-2062 10.Oak 5-minute rush hours!

partment at 325-728-5252.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 35

Serving Mitchell County for over 30 Years!

AUTO MART

1815 Hickory

Colorado City

728-5209

Fast, Friendly Service Auto parts for car, pick-up, farm and ranch plus much more!

Locally owned and operated by Liz Redwine

36 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 37

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Old school. Casual dining.

Located in building previously occupied by Kelley Elementary School.

Go to www.kelleycafe.com for more info & online ordering.

Open Daily

1426 Walnut

11 am – 9 pm

325 515-4035 325 515-0056

Colorado City, TX 79512

Dine-in, Carryout, Delivery

Kitchen closes at 8:30.

We stop seating & taking orders at 8:30 pm. #12VG2018

Join us for authentic Mexian Food! that’s right, authentic Mexican food served with your favorite beverage.

Hours: Wed. - Thurs. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 5 - 8 p.m.

Friday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 5 - 9 p.m.

Saturday 5 - 9:00 p.m.

Closed Sunday, Monday & Tuesday

Mi Ranchito 237 Concho

Colorado City

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Limit one coupon per person, per visit. *Of equal or lesser value only. Valid at 2301 N. State Hwy. 208, Colorado City, TX 79512 DQ® location only. Void if altered, copied, sold, exchanged or where restricted by law. No cash value. Plus tax if applicable. All DQ and Orange Julius trademarks owned or licensed by Am. D.Q. Corp. © 2018.

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38 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Phone 325-728-8393

American & Mexican Food Steaks ~ Burgers Fajitas ~ Enchiladas ~ Sopes ~ Tamales ~ Tacos ~ Quesadillas Nachos and more I-20 @ Hwy. 208 South Open Thurs. - Mon. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Closed Tues. & Wed.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 39

RESTAURANT GUIDE Welcome to Mitchell County

... the Poppy Mallow Capital of the World

Thanks to a grant, Mitchell County is affectionately known as the “Poppy Mallow Capital of the World,” and it got that name for a good reason.

The poppy mallow flower was listed as a State Endangered Species in 1983, being identified in only three counties in Texas: Mitchell, Coke and Runnels. The largest population of the endangered flower exists in Colorado City, giving the county its nickname.

As county officials prepared to apply for a grant to build a sports complex several years ago, the poppy mallow population was found. Part of the grant included establishing a five-acre tract of land that is preserved for the endangered flower.

Today, the poppy mallow is thriving at its designated location at the Mitchell County Sports Complex, along the north service road of I-20.

Bobby Lemons takes good care of the flowers, and students from Angelo State University and Texas Tech University have come to town to study the poppy mallows.

Researchers and scientists have full access to this living laboratory, and their efforts to save the poppy mallow flower are improving.

Fast & Fresh Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Mary’s Cafe 502 East 2nd Street, ColoradoCity

325-728-8000

To go orders welcome - Drive through window

40 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

FUN

Wolf Creek Golf Course is a good place to spend a few hours

Wolf Creek Golf Course, nestled along the banks of Lone Wolf Creek and shaded by numerous Mesquite and Elm trees, is a ninehole semi-private golf course with a private swimming pool.

Open year-round, Wolf Creek welcomes new memberships and offers green fee players the opportunity to play on a regular basis.

Summer golf and pool memberships are available and include unlimited golf and pool access for the summer months.

Wolf Creek hosts several tournaments, including the local Rotary Club Night Golf

Tournament held each year in June.

Also, the Colorado High School Booster Club hosts a three-person scramble in July that has become a popular event. Other tournaments are scheduled. Call the golf course at 325-728-5514 for more information.

Join golfers on Thursday nights for the very popular ABCD Scrambles. Have your name on the list by 5 p.m. and action gets underway at 6 p.m.

If you’re new to the area or just new to golf, go check out Wolf Creek!

Moving here? Important numbers you may need to know!

Colorado City Police Department ................................325-728-5294 Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office ...................................325-728-5261 Colorado City Area Chamber of Commerce ................325-728-3403 Texas Department of Public Safety ...............................325-728-5214 Lake Colorado City State Park .....................................325-728-3931 Lake Champion Fisher Park..........................................325-242-2093 Colorado City Civic Center..........................................325-728-5331 Colorado City City Hall ..............................................325-728-5331 Colorado City Record ..................................................325-728-3413

City Swimming Pool ....................................................325-728-8845 Colorado City Fire Dept.............................................. 325-728-5252 Mitchell County Hospital ............................................325-728-3431 Family Medical Associates ............................................325-728-2693 Mitchell County Courthouse .......................................325-728-8457 Mitchell County Public Library ...................................325-728-3968 Heart of West Texas Museum....................................... 325-728-8285 Loraine City Hall .........................................................325-737-2222 Westbrook City Hall.................................................... 325-644-3131

Located justYour northlocal Purina, D&D Nutrition, of the Vet Clinic Hi-Pro & Bryant Grain Dealer at We offer high quality Alfalfa and Coastal Hay. 2125 S. Hwy. 208 Ask us about wholesale pricing on large orders of hay. in Colorado City Delivery available.

Locally owned Matthew & and operated by Matthew and MaKaya Neff Located MaKaya Neffjust north of Mitchell County Vet Clinic at 2125 S. Hwy. 208, Colorado City, TX

325-242-2276 325-242-2276 Your local Purina, D&D Nutrition, Hi-Pro & Bryant Grain Dealer

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 41

We are currently servicing septics and providing porta-potty rentals in the following locations: Mitchell County: Colorado City, Loraine, Westbrook Scurry County: Snyder, Ira, Dunn, Fluvanna, Hermleigh Nolan County: Roscoe, Champion, Sweetwater, Trent Coke County: Robert Lee, Bronte, Blackwell, Silver Howard County: Coahoma, Sand Springs, Forsan Welcome newcomers to Champion Septic Services! We offer professional and reliable septic services at competitive prices. We are committed to providing excellent workmanship, prompt delivery and friendly customer service. We are proud to offer septic services and rentals in the Mitchell, Scurry and other surrounding counties in this West Texas area.

Whether your needs include a routine maintenance contract, septic clean out, septic installation, portable toilet rental, grease trap removal, or assistance with any septic issue, we are here to help. So don’t hesitate to give us a call, 325-207-8200. We will be happy to answer any questions you have or give you a free quote. After all, we don’t just work in this community, it’s where we live and it’s where we call home.

Champion Septic Services Jeromy Connell 6977 FM 2319 - Loraine, TX 79532 325-207-8200 or 325-201-4330

42 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

FUN

World class sports complex draws state tournaments The Mitchell County Sports Complex is located on a 20-acre site on Interstate 20 in Colorado City. The complex contains baseball fields, softball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, walking paths with workout stations, sand volleyball and horseshoe pits.

The facility is home to area little league, high school baseball and softball, soccer and flag football, including the State Semi-Finals Champion Lady Wolves softball team. Its central location attracts high school playoff games, as well as adult softball and ragball tournaments. The facility has five soccer fields in various sizes to provide playing fields for kids peewee age up to high school.

For 9 out of the last 10 years, the complex has hosted state tournaments for the Texas Teenage League. In the summer of 2018, folks will come from all over the region to spectate or participate in state tourneys in two age divisions.

A grant received from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department in 2004 allowed for the construction and opening of the complex. As part of the grant, the complex has devoted an area to the growth and de-

velopment of the Texas Poppymallow and xeriscape demonstrations.

The poppymallow is an endangered flowering perennial in the winecup family that grows in sandy soil and is found nowhere in Texas except for Mitchell, Runnels and Coke Counties. In these three counties, there are only 10 known populations of the plant.

Youth sports are well-supported in Mitchell County and a large section of the population participates in the practices and games in some way. Almost every weekend in Colorado City, teams can be found playing games or raising funds.

Anyone with kids who enjoy organized sports will be able to find their niche, and the Mitchell County Sports Complex offers a modern, well-maintained arena for parents and kids alike. The complex also offers all sports fans the opportunity to go out and catch a few good games of various sports throughout the year.

Available for school activities, district and league play, church and civic organization or as a venue for special event, the complex stays busy. For more information, contact the Board of Economic Development at 325728-2298.

Perfect Petals TY J. WOOD Attorney at Law 325-728-8400 Office 325-728-8101 Fax 249 Walnut St. Downtown Colorado City, TX 79512

for any occasion

Creative Floral Designs Bridal Bouquets Centerpieces Holiday Flowers Prom & School Events

Stacie’s Creations 258 Walnut Colorado City 325-728-2100

FUN

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 43

Ruddick Park offers swimming, disc golf, fishing Colorado City is home to Ruddick Park, which is an oasis in the middle of town. The city park was built around Lone Wolf Creek which runs through it and is stocked twice a year with trout and catfish.

Fishing is definitely allowed, even encouraged, but fishermen should be aware fishing licenses are required and Texas fishing laws apply.

Don’t worry. If you’re not a fisherman, there’s still plenty to do in the park. The 35-acre park boasts a hiking trail, picnic tables, a nine-hole disc golf course, a public swimming pool and two large, shaded pavilions available for birthday parties, picnics, dances, family reunions and more.

Pavilions can be rented by calling City Hall at 325-758-5331.

The park is also home to the City Pool, a popular place to stay cool during hot West Texas summers. The pool is open from Memorial Day to the middle of August each summer, Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Cost to get in the gate is $5 per person. The pool can also be rented for parties. For information call the pool at 325-728-8845.

There is also a rare outdoor amphitheater that has native rock seating.

The same rock was used for fencing, a park entrance arch and the picnic tables scattered throughout the place. Rock work was completed through the Civilian Conservation Corps as part of the Works Progress Admin-

istration following World War I, providing jobs and income during the Great Depression.

BENNETT CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC The Industrial Accident & Personal Injury Clinic A Diagnostic-Treatment Center

156 E. 2nd Street Colorado City, TX 79512 Phone 325.728.9025 sterling@sterlingburleson.com

◆ PERSONAL INJURY ◆ WORKERS COMPENSATION INJURY ◆ AUTO ACCIDENT ◆ NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR NECK/LOW BACK/DISC PAIN BENNETT CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC OF COLORADO CITY

325-728-3411

44 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 45

46 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Education

CISD offers many opportunities for students

Elementary and middle school students attending school in the Colorado Independent School District are blessed with the opportunity to attend classes in one of the newer schools in the area..

Opened in 2017, CISD provides stateof-the-art technology and many safety features.

Not only are all pre-k through 8th grade students in a relatively new campus, but high school students now have more opportunities for achievement than ever. Recently remodeled with more safety features, the high school provides a safe environment in which students can learn. To top that, CISD high school students can take dual-credit classes to earn college hours, and it’s all free!

The tuition, the books, the lab hours and more!

Texas House Bill 5 made it mandatory for all high schools to prepare students for the future. Some choose the college route, while others are more interested in entering the workforce. Colorado High prepares students for either outcome, making them college, career or military ready.

Thanks to the Colorado Career Academy at CHS, students can get vocational training in areas such as welding, automotive, and health information technology. Some students in career classes are transported by the district to Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Sweetwater for classroom and hands-on training. It is an avenue for student to graduate from high school certified to begin a goodpaying career.

Almost 600 students have completed and received more than 5,600 college hours with a 94 percent passing rate.

These Colorado High students are the first of their generation to have an opportunity to graduate with an associate’s degree under their belt, all at no cost to students or their parents.

High schoolers aren’t the only ones getting a world-class education.

Elementary and middle school students attend school in a facility that provides more safety and technology amenities than ever before, thanks to the construction of the Colorado Elementary and Colorado Middle School campus.

The building was constructed with the future of students in mind, as classrooms are outfitted with interactive projectors and safe rooms with concrete walls and ceilings, and steel doors are located through each hallway for fire safety standards.

Another element of safety has been added to the CHS campus. Department of Public Safety State Troopers frequent the high school, as they will have a room of their own in the school in which to come in, cool off and complete paperwork in peace. The presence of the troopers is a big safety boost, and the program is the first of its kind in the state.

Thanks to the voters of the Colorado ISD, students are enjoying the best of what there is to offer. If you’re new to Mitchell County and you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind education for your kids, Colorado ISD may be the place for you!

Seeing Is Achieving Welcome Newcomers to Mitchell County!

Let us help you care for your pet.

Could a vision disorder be affecting your ability to see correctly?

It’s important to know that typical vision screenings cannot detect certain vision problems. If you experiencing seeing difficulties, a comprehensive vision exam could be the answer.

Call us today for an appointment.

McAndrews Eye Clinic 2145 Hickory, Colorado City, TX 728-2604

Mitchell County Veterinary Clinic Hwy. 208 South, Colorado City 325-728-8055

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 47

Colorado ISD

New Pre-K through 8th Grade Campus Tui�on-free Full Day Pre-K iPAD Centers in elementary 1: Technology Ini�a�ve at Middle School & High School Full Day Headstart Program for qualifying 3 and 4 year olds Tui�on Free PSAT & ACT testing; TSI College Entrance Exam Student Chrome Books

Mee�ng the needs of all of our children’s futures...

Commi�ed to student safety - DPS and other law enforcement present on campus Class size below state class size requirements All classrooms equipped with computers and Smart Boards Family Access for Student Grade checks Home of Mitchell County Academy FREE Tui�on and books for college classes to all Colorado High School students Award winning Academic, Athle�c, FCCLA & FFA programs Youth Career Connect Grant -- 1 of only 2 recipients in the state of Texas New mul�-purpose building for athle�cs and fine arts Professional suppor�ve and caring staff that chooses to put our kids first

Colorado ISD

325-728-5312

www.ccity.esc14.net

“Para Los Estudiantes” -- For the Students

48 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Education

Loraine School continues to redefine itself Loraine ISD has experienced countless successes in the past couple of years. Academically, the school has experienced a resurgence.

Once an Improvement Required campus, Loraine School is now an academic model. The campus culture thrives on the expectations of relationship, respect, and responsibility.

Teachers focus their instruction on ensuring all students meet the maximum academic potential. Collectively, the entire staff work intentionally to ensure all stakeholders experience positive interactions with the campus. The Loraine ISD staff is excited about the future of the school, as students are the top priority in decision-making.

Extracurricular programs offered to students include Academic UIL,

One Act Play, basketball, cheer, cross country, football, track and volleyball. Student organizations include National Honor Society and Student Council. As the Gifted/Talented program flourishes, robotics will be included in the instruction student receive, as the schools moves toward project-based learning.

The faculty and administrators have developed a clear vision of how to engage all stakeholders, continue academic successes, and enrich the student body through growing extracurricular programs.

Loraine school staff looks forward to addressing any questions regarding the campus. Feel free to call at your convenience, 325-737-2225, or visit the website which contains a plethora of information, www.loraine. esc14.net.

WE WANT YOU TO LOOK YOUR BEST

WE CARE ABOUT YOUR CLOTHES Let Lone Star Cleaners keep your clothes looking their best!

Friendly, helpful treatment available at chiropractic clinic Open Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Closed for lunch from 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

LoneStarCleaners 1930 N. Austin

Colorado City

325-728-5454

Chiropractic is a specialized science dedicated to the care of problems related to the spine. Chiropractic treatment is uniquely suited to reduce the pain while correcting the cause.

If you’ve been searching for a safe, effective, national solution for relief and correction of an injury or condition, chiropractic care may be the solution.

Bennett Chiropractic Clinic “Dedicated to Patient Care” 325-728-3411

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 49

50 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Education Westbrook ISD makes students feel special Westbrook Independent School District, home of the Wildcats, is located approximately 9 miles west of Colorado City on Interstate 20. The campus is located at 102 E. Bertner St. Westbrook is a District 1-A school that averages 260 student’s Pre-K – 12th grade.

Westbrook is one of the few places left in the world where students aren’t just a number. It is a quality education with a personal touch. The Westbrook community strongly supports the students. Westbrook fans will fill any stands no matter the distance.

To supplement the basic core curriculum, Westbrook ISD offers elective courses to secondary students that enhances their education. Students also may elect to take Dual Credit courses through Western Texas

Propane Distributor

ꕹ Goodyear & Michelin Tires along with other name brands

ꕹ

Computerized Wheel Balancing Wheel Alignment Oil Change

M

MATLOCK Serving Mitchell County since 1958 801 E. Interstate 20, Colorado City, TX 325-728-3041

College.

Students are encouraged to participate in academic, organizational, and athletic extracurricular activities.

Opportunities for students to diversify their interests are many at Westbrook. A relatively small enrollment means that all students are given the opportunity to participate. Some highlights of the school year for Westbrook students and their families are Meet the Wildcats, Fall Festival, and the Local Livestock Show.

Teachers and other faculty at Westbrook ISD encourage students to branch out and explore new fields. Whether its theater arts, athletics, or ag science that interests your student they will fill at home at WISD. Finally, the graduates are recognized by local clubs, organizations, churches and individuals. The community comes together to ensure that our graduates have the means for success beyond high school. They support our students throughout the year by generously donating funds through various functions which helps them meet their goals.

Westbrook ISD is an exceptionally great place to be and we invite anyone with interest in our school to come by and have a look. You won’t be disappointed.

County’s media outlets will keep you informed COLORADO CITY RECORD

The Colorado City Record serves Mitchell County as a weekly newspaper.

Founded in 1905, the Record is published each Thursday.

Carrier delivery is available within the city limits of Colorado City. Delivery to the remainder of the county is by mail.

All in-county subscriptions are $39 per year, and outside Mitchell County, a year’s subscription is $45 per year. For those living outside the state of Texas, a year’s subscription is $51.

For those high-tech customers, online subscriptions cost $30 per year.

Check us out on Facebook for up to day information.

To find out how to get your subscription started, call 325-728-3413 or go by the office at 257 E. 2nd St. in downtown Colorado City.

KVMC/KAUM

Mitchell County and the surrounding area is served by local radio station KVMC/KAUM. The radio station was founded in the late 1940s and continues broadcasting today.

KVMC/KAUM is owned and operated by Extreme Media, LLC. The station is located at 1869 West I-20 Business. It can be found at 107.1 FM and 1320 AM on the radio dial. Call 325-728-5530 for more information.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 51

WESTBROOK ISD HOME OF THE WILDCATS

WE OFFER CTE PROGRAMS WITH NUMEROUS ENDORSEMENTS

CTE Certifications in

Vet Tech Welding CNA Oil and Gas

C O N TA CT U S 32 5- 6 4 4 -2 3 1 1

www.westbrookisd.com

*All Day Tuition Free Pre-K *Dual Credit Programs *Free ACT Testing for Juniors and Seniors *Class size 18:1 *Ipads provided for all students

Award Winning Academic, Athletic and FFA Programs WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US IN OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE.

NOW CONSIDERING NEW TRANSFERS

ONCE A WILDCAT ALWAYS A WILDCAT

52 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

Education

WTC... providing opportunities to Mitchell County students The close proximity makes going to college at WTC easy

Western Texas College (WTC) provides opportunities for education not only for Colorado City and Snyder, but in Texas, the United States, and nations across the globe. Built in 1971 with strong support and by sheer force of will from the community, multiple generations of students from Mitchell County and beyond have received a quality education from WTC. Students at Western Texas College enjoy a small-town, friendly atmosphere with a caring and approachable faculty and staff.

WTC’s affordable tuition and close proximity to Colorado City makes going to college easy.

“It’s rather easy to get around the campus,” says pre-med student Michael Campos, a 2018 graduate.

“If you have questions, everyone is here to help. Everybody, students and faculty, is easy to get along with. The faculty is always willing to work with you. If they can’t help, they will direct you to someone who can.”

From the beginning, students have been the focus for the faculty and staff of WTC. The College concentrates on programs that re-

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flect the needs of prospective students and employers in the area. With over thirty majors, vocational programs and additional electives of study, students can earn an Associates of Arts, an Associate of Arts in Teaching, an Associates of Science, or an Associates of Applied Science degree.

WTC also offers many certificate programs to quickly train students to enter the work world within one or two years.

In addition, WTC promotes lifelong learning and workforce training in the community. With the creation of College on the Square, adults and children in the community can take advantage of the downtown Snyder location for learning opportunities that add to the cultural fabric and intellectual enrichment of West Texas. Small business owners may qualify for workforce development grants to train their staff.

If you’re interested in starting or continuing your education, visit wtc.edu or call 325-573-8511.

Western Texas College is located at 6200 College Avenue in Snyder.

Colorado City

247 Walnut

Joe’s Automotive 1815 Hickory 728-5200 Colorado City, TX

service for every car and every customer!

For all your automobile service needs, stop in and see Joe!

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 53

Friendly. Affordable. Close to Home.

Your opportunity to start a degree or train for a career is on your doorstep!

VOCATIONAL

Criminal Justice Early Childhood Education Electrical Lineman Technology Farm and Ranch Management Golf Course and Sports Turf Field Management Medical Assistant Medical Information Technology Petroleum Technology Welding

MAJORS

Agriculture Art Biology Business Elementary Education Pre-Engineering English General Studies – Arts General Studies – Science Health, PE & Kinesiology Mass Communications Mathematics Pre-Law Pre-Med Studies Pre-Nursing Secondary Education Social Sciences – General Theater

ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES OF STUDY

Accounting Chemistry Criminal Justice Economics Geography Geology Government History Humanities Philosophy Physical Science Physics Psychology Sociology Spanish Speech

Financial Aid Available.

Start your future with us!

6200 College Ave., Snyder, Texas 79549 • 325-573-8511 • wtc.edu Western Texas College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or disability in its programs or activities.

54 • Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide

HEADY AUTO PARTS Your

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A premier supplier of replacement products, accessories, supplies and equipment for virtually all car and truck makes and models.

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Serving Mitchell County and the surrounding areas.

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Home of a State PriSon Wallace Unit is big employer in Mitchell County In 1993, construction began on a Texas Department of Criminal Justice Institutional Division prison, and it opened in May of 1994. In its capacity, the unit houses 1,384 offenders and employs over 200.

The Daniel Webster “80 John” Wallace Unit is located at the intersection of I-20 and FM 3525 in Colorado City and sits on 524 acres. When the prison is fully staffed, it is a top employer in Mitchell County.

Educational programs include: adult basic education/GED, pre-release education, cognitive intervention, automotive specialization, construction carpentry and horticulture.

The Wallace Unit has a garment factory, farm shop and security pack canine kennel. The unit produces hay and cares for the state’s security horses and dogs. Besides using the dogs for offender tracking purposes, several are trained and have been used as search and rescue canines in many instances.

The prison’s kitchen has been recognized as the top kitchen facility in the state, and many dishes are cooked using fresh herbs and spices from the Unit Garden, which is also an award-winning facility.

Offenders are supplied medical services in the complex infirmary, which is staffed and overseen by Mitchell County Hospital District employees. Telemedicine services are available, as well as dental and vision services.

Offenders at the Wallace Unit have the opportunity to take part in substance abuse education, life skills education, support groups, victim awareness workshops, religious/faith-based studies and activities.

When the prison is adequately staffed, field work groups are assembled and provide invaluable services to the organizations in Mitchell County. In the past, work groups have painted, mowed and cleaned up several outdoor areas, set up and taken down tables, chairs and other items for gatherings, and the list goes on.

Colorado City Record 2021 • Visitors & Newcomers Guide • 55

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52 56 ·• Colorado Colorado City City Record Record 2018 2021 ·• Visitors Visitors && Newcomers Newcomers Guide Guide

Welcome Newcomers and Visitors • Internet Banking • Mobile Banking • Remote Deposit • Electronic Bill Pay • Debit Cards • CNB Drive Thru ATM • Direct Deposit

Serving our friends and family for over 121 years...

On April 4, 1900 The Comptroller of the Currency authorized The City National Bank of Colorado City to “commence the business of banking”. Many things have changed in the last 121 years but the basic principles are unchanged. The employees, officers and directors feel an obligation to those who have come before us in time. We will continue to honor the trust they have placed in us.

We are proud of the opportunity to serve our customers and the communities we love. We will remain conscious of the generations who will follow.

We have been the financial leader in Mitchell County for 121 years. We have established roots in this community and believe that you have shared in our success. We look forward to the years ahead……

If you are looking for strength, stability and safety, let The City National Bank of Colorado City be your only choice!

• Interest Bearing Accounts • Overdraft Protection Available • Cashier Checks • Various Loan Options • CDs and IRAs • Notary Service • Apple Pay • Samsung Pay

The City National Bank of Colorado City

Member FDIC

EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

228 Elm Street Colorado City 325-728-5221 Member City National BancShares, Inc www.cnbccity.com