Hamilton Visitors Guide

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2021-2022 FREE

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VISITORS AND NEWCOMERS GUIDE

shop • eat •play •stay •explore •live •share

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www.hamiltontexas.com

Brought to you by Hamilton Economic Development Corporation

HAMILTON HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Committed to Quality S I LV E

R

Randy Lee, MD Chief of Staff

Robbye Lengefeld, MD Hamilton Clinic

Luke Killian, MD Hamilton General Hospital ER

Tim Rudolph, MD Hamilton General Hospital ER

Brad Bartels, MD Hamilton General Hospital ER

Charles Johnson, MD Hamilton Clinic Hico Clinic

Thomas Aycock, MD Wound Care

Ryan Adams, MD General Surgery Specialty Services

Keith Ellison, MD Orthopedics Specialty Services

Kristen Stegemoller, MD FPC Mills County

Mistee Jefferies, APRN, PMHNP-BC Behavioral Health

Jennifer Armstrong, FNP-BC Wound Care

Shelly Lengefeld, PA-C Hamilton Clinic

Arlene Brown, APRN, FNP-C Hamilton Clinic

John Seth, APRN, FNP-C FPC Mills County

Hamilton Clinic

Shelly Boyle, PA-C Hamilton Clinic

Grant Ward, PA-C Hamilton Clinic Hico Clinic

400 North Brown • Hamilton, TX 76531

(254) 386-1600

www.hamiltonhospital.org

Stephanie Shepherd, APRN, FNP-C Hico Clinic

Gerald Snyder, MD Hamilton Clinic

W. Shalor Craig, MD Hamilton Clinic Hico Clinic

Melanie Bartek, Jim Davis, OD, FCOVD OD, FAAO Central Texas Eye Care Central Texas Eye Care

Kayla Routh, APRN, FNP-C FPC Mills County

Trevor Watson, APRN, FNP-C FPC Mills County

Yvonne Joseph, APRN, PMHNP-BC Behavioral Health

Committed to You

Stop • Get out • Come on in!

Plan a visit to Hamilton: Hamilton Events Labor Day Weekend

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Shop

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Play

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Our Favorite Finds Roping & Riding Crank it Up Tee Time Kiddin’ Around On the Hunt

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Eat

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Stay

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Family Tradition Spirits of Texas

Explore

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Live

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Preserving History Art on the Square Telling Stories Order in the Court Enjoy a Sunset Main Street Map Our Neighbors

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Places to Stay/Breakfast

Planting a Seed 80 Hometown Healthcare 82 Foundations of Faith 84 Hamilton Bulldogs 86 Let’s Play 88 We Serve 90 Country Livin’ 93 Living the Legacy 94 Making Memories 96 Elected Officials 98 Business Directory 101

Share One of the safest cities you will find anywhere, Hamilton is proud to support its frontline heroes.

Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Police Department, Volunteer Fire Department, EMS and healthcare workers provide expedient care and security second to none.

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dds are that if you do this on any day of the week in Hamilton, Texas, you will be greeted with a smile.

After living in Hamilton for forty years, I can promise that our biggest and best assets are the care and love we have for each other and our fellow man. The people of this community truly care for one another. This is exemplified by a positive and progressive attitude that comes with having amazing, professional healthcare providers, great teachers and administrators, and hardworking city employees who are dedicated and ready to serve.

A sense of security and safety comes from having a volunteer fire department and police department that are next to none. They constantly strive to be the best trained and educated in their fields, and we are blessed to have each and every one of them as leaders in our community.

Hamilton is growing and looking toward the future. If you are looking for what a hometown should be, just STOP -- GET OUT -- COME ON IN and check us out. 

About the Cover

Warm and inviting, Hamilton is a great place to raise a family, grow in community and retire in peace.

Welcome to our hometown!

Special thanks to Ranglers Convenience Store and cover family Blake, Gayle, Fischer, Finn and Stevie Edwards, Penny Spearman and Kayla Edwards.

Photo by Kim Hinton

Visit Hamilton: was created and published by

Hamilton Herald-News 101 N. Rice Street | Hamilton, TX 76531 254-386-3145 | hhnpaper.com

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Imagine the possibilities with a home loan from MCBank.

mcbanktx.com NMLS #442123 Member FDIC

Come Celebrate!

CARNIVAL & RODEO

Labor Day weekend enjoy parade, rodeo, carnival, vendors, 5K and more! See page 9 for more details.

Circle T Arena hosts five WSTRQ events each year with one on Labor Day weekend. circletarena.net

November

September

WORLD SERIES TEAM ROPING QUALIFIERS

October

SOARING WEEKEND ANVIL SHOOT Hamilton Chamber of Commerce hosts Trick or Treat on the Square.

DOVE FESTIVAL PARADE

TRICK OR TREAT ON THE SQUARE

Bulldogs host Bangs at Kooken Field Sept. 27.

BULLDOG HOMECOMING

American Legion Post #222 will hold its 104th annual anvil shoot at 5 a.m. Nov. 11.

Hamilton's PD hosts National Night Out Oct. 5 at Jayson Harris Pavilion.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

American Legion Post #222 fundraiser for Veterans Memorial. Enjoy the bales as you drive through town during HAY FOR HEROES October.

Enjoy a good night’s rest!

COMFORT • CONVENIENCE • GREAT VALUE •

Newly Remodeled

•

Free WiFi

•

Outdoor Pool

• • • •

TV Fridge Microwave Restaurant with Bar Next Door

Western Inn

1208 S. Rice Hwy 281 in Hamilton

For reservations, call 254-386-3141 or go to booking.com.

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BOOTS & BLING

Stay in the Know

December FoHISDs annual fundraising event is Dec. 4.

Hamilton Chamber of Commerce tay up to date on community events through the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce website. Use this QR code to access it quickly and easily.  Open the camera app from your device’s home screen. Hold your device so that the QR code appears in the camera app’s viewfinder. Your device recognizes the QR code and shows a notification. Tap the notification to open the link associated with the QR code to see all about our town!

January Kick off the first weekend of the year with the HCJLA Livestock Show.

HAMILTON COUNTY JR LIVESTOCK SHOW

JOHN DEERE DAYS

May

HARRY BULLARD MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Hosted by Band Boosters on May 20-21 at Fair Park.

July

April Lawson’s community appreciation event is the first Saturday in April. lawsonimplement.com

First weekend in May at Perry Country Club.

BAND BARBECUE COOKOFF

Fourth weekend in July at Perry Country Club.

GARY WAYNE SCHOEN JR MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

fast - friendly - convenient ...and so much more!

Locations at Hwy 281 North and West Hwy 36 in Hamilton

254-386-8903 Pizza Inn -Ext 1 • Quiznos - Ext 2

Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

423 South Rice, Hamilton • 254-386-5960 A Hamilton

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All types of equipment for any size job!

Roads - Pads - Site Work - Right of Ways - Water Lines - Trenching Lakes - Brush Clearing - Demolition - Fencing - Cattle Guards - Entry Ways

ROAD CONSTRUCTION & REPAIR

PROMPT & DEPENDABLE SERVICE

Labor Day Weekend

Circle-T Resort 4007 West HWY 36 in Hamilton

World Series of Team Roping Friday, Sept. 3 – Monday Sept. 6

Lawson Implement Co.

Hamilton County Pro Rodeo

Labor Day Weekend Soaring Event Hamilont Municipal Airport Saturday, Sept. 4- Monday, Sept. 6 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Visit website for more details Hamiltonsoaringclub.com

Keith Curry Arena

Presented by Hamilton Ready Mix Friday, Sept. 3 – Saturday, Sept. 4 at 7:30 p.m.

Carnival and Midway Fair Park, 1007 Park Rd. Thursday, Sept.2- Sunday, Sept.5

Hamilton County Dove Festival

Sponsored by Focused Care

Downtown Hamilton Dove Run 5K - 7:30 a.m.

Parade - 10 a.m.

Royal Court Introductions - 11:30 a.m.

Cornhole Tournament - 12 p.m.

Watermelon Eating Contest - 12 p.m.

Pet Show - 12:30 p.m.

Dove Diaper Derby - 1 p.m.

Photo Shootout - 2 p.m.

Vendors, Inflatables, Classic Car Showcase, Face Painting, Water Slide, Quilt Show at Museum Dunking Booth Live Entertainment 2- 4 p.m. Jerrod Hicks 4:15-6:15 p.m. Jacob Chapman 6:45-8:30 p.m. Branded Heart 9-11 p.m. Taylor Branch - Lonestar Ramblers

El Jardin

restaurant Fine Mexican Food HOURS:

TUESDAY - FRIDAY SATURDAY 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. SUNDAY CLOSED MONDAYS

Noon - 9 p.m.

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

200 N. Bell in Hamilton • (254) 386-3660

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sho

Fountain BURLAP ROSE 123 E Henry • 254-386-5909

Coming Soon!

PECAN CREEK OUTFITTERS 108 E Henry pecancreekoutfitter.com

Baby Romper HOMETOWN DESIGNZ 113 S Bell • 254-784-3112

Some of our favorite Ham

John Deere Tricycle LAWSON IMPLEMENT CO. 1130 S US Highway 281 • 254-386-8103

Mooremaker Knives RANGLERS CONVENIENCE STORE 600 N Rice • 254-386-8903

Hand-hooked stools from recycled wool clothing BURLAP ROSE 123 E Henry • 254-386-5909 Want to learn how? Chris and Pris teach classes on the square in Hamilton.

HAMILTON FLORAL & GIFTS 114 N Bell • 254-386-3194

JOHNSON JEWELERS

Alan D. Johnson, Goldsmith Fine Jewelry Handmade Knives Jewelry Repair Engraving

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529 North Rice P.O. Box 3 Hamilton, Texas 76531 360-244-5215 A Hamilton

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op

Mustard gingham dress DANIELS & COMPANY shopdanielsandcompany.com

Bench and pillows JORDANS PHARMACY 107 N Rice • 254-386-3111

amilton finds

Wheel-thrown stoneware bowl VESSELS OF HOPE inside ONE WAY COFFEE & PIZZA 115 S Rice • 254-784-0177

Share your finds!

When you find amazing treasures in Hamilton, share them with us on social media.

Pop It Bracelets SPARKLE BOUTIQUE inside NO TANGLES SALON 421 W Main • 254-386-3432

SASSY SAURKRAUT 615 E Main • 254-386-8100

#visithamiltontx

DUTCHMAN'S HIDDEN VALLEY 3408 N US Highway 281 • 254-386-3018

HAMILTON CITY DRUG 105 E Henry •254-386-3121

positive vibes  cool fashion

Florist, Antiques & Gifts 618 E. Main  123 E. Henry St. located inside Spice Village in Waco, TX

shopdanielsandcompany.com

ENJOY 10% OFF ONLINE PURCHASE WITH CODE:

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visithamilton

Visit Hamilton

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play Come

in Hamilton!

amilton’s wide open spaces are calling. Whether you enjoy hunting and fishing, catching a roping, playing a round of golf or dancing the night away to the sounds of Texas’ hottest country music artists, Hamilton welcomes you to come play in our yard. Home to Texas’ two best covered arenas, Circle T Resort hosts equestrian events each weekend. Texas country music artists frequently perform at Circle T and The Grain Drafthouse & Eatery. Perry Country Club offers a beautiful 9-hole golf course complete with a swimming pool and clubhouse.

The Dove Capital of Texas, Hamilton County welcomes hunters to harvest your limit of white-tailed deer, turkey, dove, quail, ducks and hogs. Come play in Hamilton! 

Photo by Michael Wallis Photography

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Visit Hamilton

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Photo courtesy Rafter M Ranch

Catch the Action ust five miles west of Hamilton on highway 36 lies a world class rodeo arena and event center. Circle T Arena boasts two of the best covered arenas in the state along with 175 RV spots, almost 500 stalls and bleacher capacity for 1600 people.

Circle T hosts youth and adult rodeos, barrel racing, calf and team ropings, ranch sortings, cuttings, rodeos, training clinics and many other styles of equestrian shows

at Circle T Arena

and competitions.

Every weekend brings a new and exciting event to Circle T, including the World Series of Team Roping. This year even saw a longhorn show and working dog trials.

Circle T’s resort-style atmosphere offers two swimming pools, a dance floor, the longest granite bar in the state of Texas, Crossfire Steakhouse and the Inn at Circle T surrounded by beautiful Central Texas rolling hills. 

Carter Winters Attorney at Law

Criminal Defense Felonies • MisdeMeanors

P.O. Box 431 Hamilton, Texas 76531 carter@winterslaw.org

office 254-386-8941 cell 254-688-0692 fax 254-386-8942

Dena McGregor, Broker Jacob Robertson, Realtor Danny Whitehead, Realtor 254-206-1200 254-721-9713 Mary Jo Schooler-Singleton, Realtor 254-784-3334

OPEN EVERY DAY

100 North Bell, Hamilton (254) 386-8464 www.mcgregorrealestate.net A Hamilton

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The Great Divide and Aaron Watson play at the live outdoor concert area at The Grain Drafthouse & Eatery. Follow their facebook page @thegrain.hamiltontx for upcoming events.

Crank it up! ive music is easy to find in Hamilton.

The Grain Drafthouse & Eatery in historic downtown offers live outdoor music and has hosted Aaron Watson, The Great Divide, Gary P. Nunn and a host of talented singers and songwriters.

The Crossfire Steakhouse and Cantina at Circle T Resort often features live music with free admission.

Come dance to some of Hamilton's favorite local muscians including Presley Haile and Nick Brumley, Clint Janisch, Dillan Poe, Jerrod Hicks and more! 

1103 S Rice St, Hamilton, TX 76531 • 254-386-8444 BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

OPEN EVERYDAY 11 A.M. - 9 P.M. TUESDAY & SUNDAY 11 A.M. -3 P.M.

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Local favorites Presley Haile and Nick Brumley entertain a crowd at Circle T Arena. Watch for the Clint Allen Janisch Band every year in May at the Stache Bash in Evant.

n and op i. t S

Live Music

Bite My Butt

CIRCLE T RESORT & ARENA

y every Frida

4021 W Hwy 36 • 254-386-3559 circletarena.net

THE GRAIN DRAFTHOUSE & EATERY

•

Deli –Dine In or Take Out

•

High-Quality Meats including Beef, Pork & Bison and Sausages

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Specialty Entrees to Take Home

Dona’s

•

Sauces, Rubs, Seasonings and Specialty Grocery Items

254-386-3662

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Custom Deer Processing

110 S Bell • 254-784-5122

Hair & Fashion Salon 505 E. Ross St in Hamilton

Dona’s

Bail bondS 254-223-3143 Dona Kindle

505 E. Ross St. Hamilton, Texas 76531 A Hamilton

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Open Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

209 N Bell in Hamilton • (254) 386-8242 wenzellonestarmeatcompany.com

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WE HAVE THE

UTILITY VEHICLES

YOU NEED

OUTDOOR OUTDOOR SUPERSTORE SUPERSTORE

2114 US-84 Goldthwaite, TX 76844

855.648.3341

hpolaris.com hcanam.com

Tee Time

Perry Country Club

hed the stress and worry of everyday life and enjoy a fantastic game of golf at Perry Country Club. Located on the western outskirts of Hamilton, the private club features a beautiful, challenging and expansive nine-hole golf course, swimming, fishing and clubhouse complete with kitchen and bar.

Summer at PCC kicks off with Tuesday night scrambles beginning the first Tuesday of April and running through September. The club also hosts a Club Championship, Guys & Dolls and Night Golf events.

Two of the largest annual tournaments at Perry Country Club are The Harry Bullard Memorial Tournament on the first weekend in May and the Gary Wayne Schoen, Jr. Memorial Tournament each July. More like reunions than tournaments, these events bring friends and families back to Hamilton every year.

Come play a round with us! 

Photos by Bridgette Haile and Kim Hinton

Live Outdoor Music v

Homestyle Cooking v

Full-Service Bar Open Thurs-Sat • 110 S. Bell in Hamilton • 254-784-5122 A Hamilton

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Comanche County Medical Center OUR FAMILY HELPING YOUR FAMILY

PATIENT-CENTERED COMPASSIONATE COMPASSIONATE CARE PATIENT-CENTERED CARE Serving Brown, Comanche, Erath and Surrounding Counties

Serving Hamilton, Comanche, Erath and Surrounding Counties 254-879-4900

254-879-4900

25 - BED HOSPITAL 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CARE GENERAL SURGERY PRIMARY CARE DOCTORS

SPECIALIST PHYSICIANS SWING BED FACILITY PHARMACY HOME VISITS

DIGITAL IMAGING OUTPATIENT INFUSIONS LABORATORY WOUND CARE CLINIC

25-BED HOSPITAL SPECIALIST PHYSICIANS DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances accepted.

24-HOUR EMERGENCY CARE SWING BED FACILITY OUTPATIENT INFUSIONS Comanche County Medical Center (CCMC), established in 2005, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit healthcare organization rural health system in Central Texas, LABORATORY with service locations in GENERAL SURGERYat the heart of a growing 3 RETAIL PHARMACIES Brownwood, Comanche, De Leon and Dublin. The CCMC Hospital is a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designated to increase access to rural communities.

PRIMARY CARE DOCTORS HOME VISITS WOUND CARE CLINIC 10201 Highway 16 North, Comanche, TX | 254-879-4900 | www.comanchecmc.org

Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances accepted.

Comanche County Medical Center (CCMC), established in 2005, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit healthcare organization at the heart of a growing rural health system in Central Texas, with service locations in Rising Star, Comanche, De Leon and Dublin. The CCMC Hospital is a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designated to increase access to rural communities.

10201 Highway 16 North, Comanche, TX | 254-879-4900 | www.comanchecmc.org

Kiddin’ Around ook no farther than Hamilton for the ultimate goat experience. Roxie Banker, aka “Roxie the Crazy Goat Lady,” raises and sells Pygmy/Nigerian Dwarf goats.

Roxie’s goat yoga operation, Goga and Yoga, has been in business three years since appearing on ABC’s Shark Tank.

Roxie and her goats travel to The Galleria in Bee Cave every other Saturday for goga classes. Attendees experience the playfulness of her miniature goats. The goats only weigh 40-50 pounds and are all dressed in costume.

“Most participants come for the goats, not the yoga,” said Roxie.

Goga and Yoga has catered to corporate meetings and conferences and is available for special occasion parties like birthdays and bachelorette parties.

“We bring the country to the city,” said Roxie.

Roxie hosts the ultimate goat experience at her operation in Hamilton. This allows those interested in raising goats the opportunity to play with miniature goats and learn about what it takes to raise and care for them.

A waiting list is available to purchase a baby goat. 

coffee Jesus!

Roxie THE Crazy Goat Lady with Tinkerbell, who weighed less than a pound when she was born in June. Follow her adventures @RoxieTHECrazyGoatLady. Check out goga.yoga for class information.

All I need is a little bit of

&a whole lot of

BLESSED TO SERVE YOU! FREE WIFI DINE IN • CARRY OUT • DELIVERY

254-688-9886 COFFEE TUES-SAT 6:30 A.M. - 8:30 P.M. PIZZA TUES-SAT 11 A.M. - 8:30 P.M.

115 N. RICE ST IN HAMILTON A Hamilton

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the buck stops here

• Milo • Corn • Stampede Mix (soybeans & corn)

• Protein Pellets • Food Plot Mixes • White Tail Enticer • Buck Enhancer Mineral

Wildlife • Livestock • Showstock Feed and Supplies Organic Lawn Care

FEED MILL ON HWY 36 EAST IN HAMILTON

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254-386-0073 A Hamilton

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Need a license?

BROOKSHIRE BROTHERS

1004 E. Main • 254-386-8744

HIGGINBOTHAM BROTHERS

1305 S. Rice • 254-386-3212

KEN’S TRUE VALUE

813 S. Rice • 254-386-3136

On the Hunt egarded as the Dove Capital of Texas, Hamilton has been welcoming hunters on the opening weekend of dove season for half a century.

In addition to bountiful dove hunting opportunities, Hamilton’s hillsides are peppered with an abundance of whitetailed deer, hogs, turkey, ducks and other wildlife attracting hunters and trappers to Hamilton County year-round.

Hamilton City Lake is stocked with bass, crappie and catfish. Anglers enjoy fishing off the banks or kayaking through the rivers and streams in the area. 

RANGLERS CONVENIENCE STORES

608 N. Rice • 254-386-8903

Looking for a lease?

HAMILTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

254-386-3216 hamiltontexaschamber ofcommerce.com

Deer Processing HAMILTON QUALITY MEATS

1205 S Rice St 254-386-4646

WENZEL LONESTAR MEAT CO.

209 N Bell St 254-386-8242

Smoked fresh daily on Pecan wood

Nita & Glen’s

BBQ DINE IN • TAKE OUT • CATERING

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Tue-Fri 10-6 • Sat 10-3 1107 S. Rice Street, Hamilton •

254-784-0967 Visit Hamilton

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Since 1950 It’s been all about

The Burger

...and the Chicken Fried Steak!

Make mi ne a Storm’ s Special, Please!

923 E. Main St. Hamilton, TX 76531

386-3143

eat Savor Hamilton!

Enjoy some of our favorite foods and discover your own.

BROOKSHIRE BROTHERS DELI 1004 E Main 254-386-8744

EL JARDIN 200 N Bell 254-386-3660

PIZZA INN 520 W Main 254-386-8903

Chicken Strips

Tacos Al Pastor with a Mango Margarita

BUSH’S CHICKEN 305 N Rice 254-386-4442 Baked Chicken

FARMER’S MARKET 822 E Main 254-386-5004

Shelby’s Chicken Salad

RED WING DOVE WINERY 9112 FM 2005 254-386-7359

CENTRAL PERK 423 S Rice 254-386-5960

FRIDA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1204 S Rice 254-386-4324

QUIZNO’S 520 W Main 254-386-8903

Chicken Salad stuffed Avocado and Peanut Butter Pie

Margarita with Chips & Salsa

CHINA WOK 121 E Henry 254-386-9990

GIOVANNI’S 320 N Bell Street 254-386-3255

COUNTRY DONUTS 223 N Rice 254-386-3379

KELSEY’S STREET EATS 110 N Railroad 254-413-1674

Beef and Broccoli

Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Kolache

CROSSFIRE STEAKHOUSE 4007 TX-36 254-386-3559

Ribeye with Green Chili Cheese Grits and a cold beer

DAIRY QUEEN 820 S Rice 254-386-3048 Heath Blizzard

DUTCHMAN’S HIDDEN VALLEY 3408 U.S. 281 254-386-3018

Bavarian sandwich with a slice of Apple Kuchen

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Baked Tortellini

Meatloaf on Thursdays

LYNDALE’S FOOD TRUCK 923 E Main 325-642-1018 Slamwich

Ham & Cheese Kolache

Orange Blossom

Apple Harvest Chicken Salad

SMOKE SHACK BARBECUE 702 S Rice 254-386-5246

The Dirty Diana Burger

WENZEL LONESTAR MEAT COMPANY 209 N Bell 254-386-8242

Pork Butt Sandwich on Fridays (We like it spicy!)

KELSEY’S STREET EATS SAUSAGE SANDWICH

SONIC DRIVE-IN 701 E Main 254-386-8824 Route 44

STORMS HAMBURGERS 923 E Main 254-386-3143

Storm’s Special with Curly Fries and a Cherry Lime Squeeze

3-Meat Plate with Pecan Pie

SUBWAY 312 N Rice 254-386-5587

ONE-WAY COFFEE AND PIZZA 115 N Rice 254-688-9886

Subway Melt

TACO LOCO 1103 S Rice 254-386-8444

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CROSSFIRE STEAKHOUSE STEAK AND SHRIMP

Barbecue sandwich & Potato Salad

NITA AND GLEN’S BARBECUE 1107 S. Rice Street 254-784-0967

Chicken Bacon Ranch on Cauliflower Crust

THE GRAIN DRAFTHOUSE & EATERY 209 N Bell 254-386-8242

Breakfast Burrito

EL JARDIN FAJITA PLATE

THE GRAIN ALEMAN BURGER

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KEVIN WENZEL WISEMAN HOUSE CHOCOLATES

KARA CHORENZIAK DUTCHMAN'S HIDDEN VALLEY

KENT WENZEL WENZEL LONE STAR MEATS

Family Tradition

By Kymbirlee Jeschke

ooking for the best handcrafted meats, cheeses and chocolates?

Look no fArther than the Wenzels. The Wenzel family has treated residents and visitors to Hamilton County to their culinary talents for more than 40 years.

Kevin Wenzel is the chocolatier at Wiseman House Chocolate in Hico.

Kent Wenzel is the sausage artisan at Wenzel Lone Star Meats in Hamilton.

Kara Chorenziak continues the tradition started by their father Ronny Wenzel at Dutchman’s Hidden Valley north of Hamilton on Hwy 281.

Originally from Germany, the Wenzels immigrated to this area through Galveston in the 1880s. Ronny brought the family back to the area in the early 1970s and opened “The Dutchman” deli and smokehouse on the south side of Hamilton. He purchased the Hidden Valley location from Johnny and Frances Harris in the early '80s.

It was truly a family affair. The Wenzel siblings grew up working at The Dutchman and at home.

“We worked at it all the time – after school and on weekends,” said Kara.

With both parents working full-time,

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the siblings shared responsibilities at home like supper night.

“We each had our own night,” said Kevin. “Kent started with cereal.”

The siblings recall a particular evening where Kent called his mom and asked her to bring home a box of Raisin Bran then served it for dinner that night.

When he asked for shredded wheat the next week, mom was on to him.

“Dad gave me the look,” said Kent.

“That’s all he had to do was give me the look. That’s all it took – the look and disappointment.”

After that, Kent took it up a notch to tomato soup and grilled cheese.

Kevin went with a more creative approach on Wednesday evenings.

“I’d usually start with two pounds of ground meat in the skillet,” he said. “Add stuff from the fridge: corn, green beans, canned tomatoes – it was a casserole on top of the stove. I don’t remember anyone saying, ‘That’s horrible.’”

Friday night was fish night, and that fell to Kara, who remembers all too vividly trying to rush dinner after enjoying television just a little too long one evening.

The siblings share memories of raising

chickens, sheep and cows, making sausage, processing deer, tending a garden and putting up pickles, beets and jams.

“It was all hands in,” said Kent.

“Dad would be at the stove,” said Kevin. “It had two ovens side-by-side; a big range for a home.”

From scrubbing, slicing and stuffing cucumbers to pouring brine, each family member had a job.

“We all lined up doing it,” said Kevin.

“To this day they are my favorite pickles.

They are not overly sweet, not overly salty.”

“Dad still pickles and sells at Kent’s,” said Kara.

“People wait in line for them,” said Kent. “They come the distance. There’s the Wenzel’s touch that people are willing to wait for.”

The Wenzel’s touch extended to a recipe for success instilled in The Dutchman’s offspring. A passion for their craft, strong work ethic, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit combine to create the legacy that thrives today.

“The instilling of hard work,” said Kent, when asked how his father influenced his path. “The man didn’t cut any corners.

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the family business.

“We left and we didn’t think we’d be back,” said Kevin.

He and Kara went to school at College of the Ozarks in Missouri.

Both worked their way through the college work program in the kitchen.

Kara got married and had kids.

Kent went to the Orient as a missionary and educator.

But they did come back.

“We moved a lot. I wanted to go somewhere we could plant trees,” said Kara of her return to a simpler rural lifestyle after big-city living.

“Growing up we had to plant trees in Fairy. I wanted to get back to KARA MAKING PICKLES WITH FATHER family.”

Once back, they did what came RONNY "THE DUTCHMAN" WENZEL natural.

“That’s just what you did,” said Kevin. “You started your own business. You worked and worked hard.”

An artist first and foremost, Kevin was inspired by the chocolatiers in Eastern Europe. He and his wife, LaDonne, renovated an old Victorian house in Hico to start Wiseman House.

Kent’s inspiration came while stuffing sausage one day.

“I thought when I open my store, I want to bring pork to the forefront,” said Kent. “I didn’t see it as a gamble. I’m not afraid to work.”

If you are going to do a job, you better give it 100 percent.”

Kent remembers his dad pulling out the red and white cookbook and teaching him to go by the recipe then teaching him to alter it to make it his own.

“He encouraged us to think outside the box,” said Kent. “He taught us the basics and gave us the freedom to experiment on our own.”

While working alongside his dad at the Hidden Valley store, Kent decided to veer from the recipe.

“I said, ‘Let me try something,’” remembers Kent.

His famous jalapeno cheese sausage was born.

“I was a forerunner in putting jalapenos and cheese in sausage,” he said.

He didn’t stop there. Then came habaneros and cheese. Wenzel’s Lone Star Meats now carries a wide variety of specialty sausages alongside quality cuts of beef, pork and bison.

“It’s trial and error,” said Kent.

“Lots of trials and lots of errors. I’ve made mistakes, and I will continue to make mistakes here but that is how you grow. You grow by making mistakes. I’m glad I didn’t have it handed to me.”

The siblings didn’t plan on staying in Hamilton and continuing

HAMILTON

Farmers Market

VISIT OUR

675 COUNTY ROAD 497 DUBLIN, TEXAS 76446

HOURS THURS 4-7 PM SAT 12-8 PM FRI 1-8 PM SUN 1-6 PM

Locally grown fresh produce Natural pork, beef and lamb Farm fresh, local milk Bedding plants, hanging baskets, fruit trees & succulents Nuts and pecans Preserves, pickles and local honey Homemade bread and desserts Fresh salads, wraps and soups MONDAY - FRIDAY 9- 5:30, SATURDAY 9-3

822 East Main St., Hamilto Hamilton

254-386-5004

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Wenzel eanut butter cookies can be found at Dutchman’s Hidden Valley and Wenzel Lone Star Meats .

Wenzel family gathered for a meal.

“Dad learned to YouTube,” said Kara. “He still does it.”

“You’d be surprised what you can read and experience for yourself,” said Ronny.

Ronny is proud of his kids.

“As any parent, when your kiddos are doing good, you are proud of them and thankful that they are doing it. Carrying their own weight,” he said.

The next generation of Wenzels are continuing the legacy. Kara’s son, Ethan, is the general manager at Dutchman Hidden Valley.

“He’s doing an amazing job,” she said.

The Wenzels continue to create real food from real ingredients the way The Dutchman did, adding their own individual creative flair, and The Dutchman is still doing his thing.

“We just finished a batch of pickles,” he said.

Sounds like a good time to stop by Wenzels Lone Star Meat, Dutchman’s Hidden Valley and Wiseman House Chocolate.  DUTCHMAN'S HIDDEN VALLEY • 3408 N US Highway 281 •dutchmanshiddenvalley.com WENZEL LONE STAR MEATS • 209 N. Bell • wenzellonestarmeatcompany.com WISEMAN HOUSE CHOCOLATES • 406 S. Grubbs, Hico • wisemanhousechocolates.com “It’s not so much what I said as what I did,” said Ronny, who exposed his kids mentally and physically to work. “You always pay your debts and be a man of your word. That was taught by my family. Old Germans were tight but you can go to the bank on what they said. We were a working people. My family came over through Galveston. They were row croppers. They worked. That’s what we do.”

He says the most important piece of advice he ever told his kids was to strive to be happy. The rest came from necessity.

“I’m not that good of a cook,” said Ronny. “My dad cooked. I learned by necessity. I think I’m a good listener. People will help if you ask.

Generally speaking, people love to tell you what they know.”

The Dutchman loved to learn, another skill he passed down.

“He built our house at Fairy,” said Kevin. “He’d go to the library and get books, watch and ask people building houses, talk to people and do the research.”

Enjoy these tried and true recipes from the Wenzel Kara Chorenziak’s Wenzel’s kitchen.

Ronny Wenzel’s

Pumpkin Pie

Pear Honey

1 pie crust, uncooked

9- cups crushed or ground pears

1 14-oz. can sweetened condensed milk

1- cup crushed pineapple

2 large eggs

5- cups sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1- fresh lime - zest (grated) and juice

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

Add all above and cook 20 minutes (simmer) Not hard boil

real whipping cream, when served

Pack in sterilized jars - 1/4” from top.

Be sure and wipe rim before putting on lid.

Water bath for 10 minutes Makes 12 - 8oz. jars - with a smidge left over.

1 15-oz. can pumpkin puree

Preheat oven to 425* Whisk all ingredients, pumpkin, condensed milk, eggs, salt, pie spice.

Pour into pie crust. Place pie on a baking sheet. Cover edges with foil strips.

Bake at 425* for 10 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350* and bake for additional 30-40 minutes or until pie looks almost set-it will be a little jiggly in middle.

Remove from oven and let cool , then chill before serving. Serve with a dollop of whipping cream on top.

Store in fridge.

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Morning Glory Muffins 1 cup sugar 2 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons cinnamon ¼ teaspoon cloves ½ teaspoon salt 3 eggs, beaten 2/3 cup oil 2 tablespoons vanilla extract 2 cups grated carrots 1 large apple, grated ½ cup flaked coconut ½ cup raisins ½ cup chopped Sift sugar, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, doves and salt together.

Combine eggs,, oil and vanilla in bowl; mix well. Stir in carrots, apple, coconut, raisins and walnuts. Add dry ingredients; mix well. Spoon into nonstick muffin cups. Bake at 350 degrees for 22 to 27 minutes or until muffins test done.

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LAWSON I M P L E M E N T

EST 1939

Your Central Texas John Deere dealer Hamilton, TX 254-386-8103

Goldthwaite, TX 325-648-2272

www.lawson-implement.com

Spiri Local Wine

Giovanni’s Red Wing Dove Winery is located at 9112 FM 2005 in Hamilton. The tasting room is open Friday from 4-7 p.m. and Saturday from 1 - 7 p.m. Stop in to try their award winning wines and specialty wood-fired flat-bread pizzas.

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

254-386-3255 320 North Bell Street in Hamilton

30

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rits of Texas Blue Dog Liquor Beer and Wine

n 1995, Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission issued the first distiller permit ushering in a new industry in the Lone Star State. Today, there are more than 160 distilleries in Texas.

In true fashion, Texas is producing an impressive number of remarkable, hand-crafted spirits.

Blue Dog Liquor Beer and Wine is a hub for Texasmade beverages.

Balcones whiskey was started in an old welding shop in Waco.

Western Son flavored vodkas are produced in Pilot Point. A portion of the profits from each bottle goes to the Peter Burks Unsung Hero Fund, which collects and delivers care packages to deployed military.

Distilled in Fort Worth, TX Whiskey was founded by a couple of guys, Leonard Firestone and Troy Robertson, who met through their kids' play group.

Tito's vodka is created in Austin using old-fashioned pot stills, and every batch is taste tested.

In addition to spirits, Blue Dog carries an impressive array of Texas wines including wines from Hamilton's own Red Wing Dove Winery and nearby Fiesta, Texas Legato, Brennan Vineyards and more.

Taste the spirits of Texas at Blue Dog. 

Blue Dog Liquor is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at 907 N. Rice St in Hamilton.

Discover your new favorite stop on Hwy 281...

Open Daily 9 am - 6 pm • Closed Wednesdays 3408 N US Hwy 281 • Hamilton, Texas • 254-386-3018

www.dutchmanshiddenvalley.com

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stay stay Wendy’s Wellspring Cottage at Heritage Place B&B is a working ranch located on 240 acres of land just outside of Hamilton.

Kevin and Wendy Cude opened the cottage as a ministry for couples in fulltime ministry to use to recharge. The Cudes built the one-bedroom cottage with their own hands. Since guests have the run of the land, the nature experiences are endless. Sit in Adirondack chairs by a campfire and watch the stars. Hike or bike through trails down to the fully stocked tank for fishing, kayaking or simply being.

PHOTO COURTESY MITCHELL CUDE, HERITAGEANDPINE.COM

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ay ay

Let the fresh clean air and the night time sky refresh your soul. he stars at night are an awesome sight in Hamilton. Leave your worries and recharge with a peaceful stay in a cabin on the outskirts of town. Relax and indulge at our luxury resort where Western elegance meets hometown charm. Enjoy clean, comfortable rooms with friendly service at one of our motels or bring your RV and stay awhile. The reasons to stay in Hamilton are as endless as the vast open sky. Don't miss a sunset or a starry night, book your stay today! 

Places to Stay Rooms

INN AT CIRCLE T

RVs

CIRCLE-T ARENA RVS

254-386-3209 • inn-at-circle-t.com 254-386-3559 Stall rentals, too WESTERN INN 254-386-3141 • booking.com

ENSOR RV PARK

HAMILTON INN

254-386-6812

BUDGET INN

254-386-8855

254-386-8864 • booking.com

HAILE'S RV PARK HAMILTON FAIR PARK

254-386-8959

Recharge Enhance your stay with spa experiences from a local massage therapist. Work out while you stay with a day pass from our gym or a Camp Gladiator class.

Homemade cinnamon rolls are baked fresh on Thursday mornings at Dutchman's Hidden Valley. Watch for kolaches on Fridays.

254-644-9849

Cabins

CROOKED CREEK RANCH CABINS

254-386-3559 • vrbo

MCGREGOR LIVESTOCK BUNKHOUSE

254-784-4201• airbnb

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY RANCH HOUSE

airbnb

WELLSPRING COTTAGE AT HERITAGE PLACE B&B

airbnb • vrbo

RIPPLIN' H RANCH HOUSE vrbo

Massages

Fitness

REJUVENATION STATION

HAMILTON WELLNESS CENTER

120 E Main •254-386-5600

KUNKEL MASSAGE

222 N Bell • 254-386-4850

FREED SOUL MASSAGE

222 N Bell • 254-206-0506

400 N BROWN •254-386-1670 Day passes available

CAMP GLADIATOR

campgladiator.com • 254-216-9624

Stay for Breakfast CENTRAL PERK 423 S Rice • 254-386-5960 KELSEY'S STREET EATS 110 N Railroad • 254-413-1674 STORM'S 923 E Main St • 254-386-3143 ONE WAY COFFEE 115 N Rice St • 254-688-9886 THE DONUT SHOP 223 N Rice St • 254-386-3379 DUTCHMAN'S 3408 N Hwy 281 • 254-386-3018 TACO LOCO 1103 S. Rice St • 254-386-3018

The Gold Buckle VIP Suite at the Inn at Circle T offers classic Western elegance with first class service. Relax by the pool and savor the cuisine at the Crossfire Steakhouse

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explore rom our rich history, museum and art galleries to 78 acres of beautiful parks, Hamilton has much to explore.

Starting downtown, hop on the 1.5 mile paved nature trail to beautiful Pecan Creek Park. The park boasts the historic Bullman Bridge, a rare bowstring iron bridge, that leads to a nature trail and disc golf course. Nestled at the heart of the park are playgrounds and a sports complex with baseball/ softball, volleyball and soccer fields and a skate park. Whether you travel by foot, bike, car or plane, we invite you to explore Hamilton. 

Stroll, run, bike or skate through 2 miles of paved trail connecting Hamilton's Pecan Creek Park to Kooken Field, home of the Hamilton Bulldogs.

In the summer, stop for a dip in Hamilton's historic swimming pool built in the late 1930s as a WPA project.

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Fly in for a visit!

Hamilton Municipal Airport is located three miles south of Hamilton. A 5,000 foot long runway allows for plenty of ramp area for private jets. Self-service fuel and courtesy car are available 24 hours a day. The unique air currents around Hamilton make gliding a favorite pasttime for many Hamilton residents and visitors. The Hamilton Soaring Club meets every Saturday and welcomes everyone from seasoned pilots to youth earning their wings.

e

Disc Golf

Hamilton

Hamilton's Pecan Creek Park now offers an 18-hole disc golf course.

Surrounded by large trees and rustic terrain, the challenging course was designed by Hamilton High School freshman Joe Polster as a 4-H project. Disc golf is played like traditional golf but a frisbeelike disc is used instead of balls and clubs. Each hole is sponsored by a local business with signage to direct players through the course. A course map is available at hamiltontexas. com.

Dine-in or Take-Out

China Wok 254-386-9990 121 E. Henry Street in Hamilton

Bret Partin

111 E. Henry Street Hamilton, Texas 76531 (254)-386-3331 bret@partinagency.net

Open Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Closed Sunday

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35

Preserving History MANNING-GORDONHENDERSON HOUSE circa 1899

he only house in town with an eight-sided outhouse, the Manning-GordonHenderson House across from the Post Office on South Rice was built between 1880 and 1885 by Louis Vincent Manning, who was the son of Hamilton’s first sheriff and was one of the children involved in the 1867 Indian raid that resulted in the death of beloved teacher Ann Whitney as she was teaching in a log 36

Visit Hamilton

A reminder of Hamilton's early history, the ManningGordon-Henderson House is a stand out on Hamilton's historical marker walking tour. Located just off the downtown square across from the post office, the house has recently been restored in keeping with its heritage. It is a personal guest home and not open to the public.

schoolhouse.

Manning built three houses and a saloon in Hamilton. The house is a wooden single-wall frame house with two bedrooms, parlor, dining room, kitchen and front and rear halls. A small front porch allows a view of traffic on Rice Street, but a back porch spanning the back of the home allows a pastoral outlook despite its location near the center of town.

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A glimpse inside the

ManninggordonHenderson House The home is an historic example of a cross-gabled roof Queen Anne house, distinguished by the cutaway bay windows, each with a fish scale textured gable and the front entry porch with ornamental posts and brackets and a jigsawn frieze.

Until a few years ago the house had never been restored, but carefully maintained by its owners. The only changes were those required by city ordinances or necessitated for the convenience of the owners.

The first of the changes was in 1914 when city ordinance outlawed the use of outdoor toilets. Small additions were added to the house then with newspapers rolled and used for insulation. With this change came running water available

The original living room furniture was red velvet and has been recovered in a very similar covering.

Antique lighting fixtures

from the city, so in addition to a bathroom, an addition to the back porch was made to accommodate a hot water heater.

The outhouse was brought to the property, probably from an old country church or school judging from the childlike crayon writings inside. The eight-sided marvel has been the subject of many a tale.

The city later prohibited cedar shingles, and they were replaced with composite. The sidewalk and curb were purchased by the post office and leveled for parking spaces, which required building a retaining wall and removing the white picket fence. Weathered stones from the sidewalk were used in the retaining wall.

Originally an open porch, this room was first screened in then enclosed over the house's lifetime.

Since the house was built in an almost shotgun style, rooms needed continuity. Both bedroom suites are original and were topped with antique quilts. Originally there was only one closet so wardrobes were used for storage.

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Located at the back of the house off of the kitchen, the cistern has been topped with glass.

Antique mercury glass adorns a side table in the dining room.

Original metal kitchen cabinets.

O. Dow Henderson and his wife Minta purchased the property in 1936 and made a few alterations, none of which affected the structural integrity of the house, most significantly replacing the wood and coal burning stoves with natural gas and removing the chimneys. Upon their death, the home was inherited by their only child, Nora Katharine.

The house was recently restored as close as possible to its original glory, keeping the original hardwood floors and reproducing the door transoms. Paneling was removed to reveal very brittle, fragile wallpaper, a piece of which was framed. The house has one closet and its original antique light fixtures. The furniture in the parlor

The octagonal outhouse sits preserved behind the house.

was reupholstered. The new owners added central heat and air.

The foundation was on railroad ties.

Since the house has a Texas Historical Marker, the new owners had to get permission to add a bathroom and install a cement foundation to ensure the house will endure for generations to come. 

No Tanglesand Salon Breakfast & Lunch

Specials

Full-Service Salon & Boutique

Kelsey’s Street Eats Brandon & Kelsey Buffe

PRAY BEFORE YOU EAT!

110 North Railroad, Hamilton 254-413-1674 38

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women’s clothing • jewelry handbags • accessories and more...

421 West Main in Hamilton

254-386-3432

@Sparkle.hamiltontx

F ollow u s on

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The Ramsey Collection

100 E Main 254-386-3168 • 254-386-3844 ramseycollection.com

Art on the Square n impressive collection of art can be found on the Hamilton square. Pieces from Matisse, Picasso, Van Gogh and more adorn the walls of The Ramsey Collection. The 40year collection of Old Masters, American Masters, European painters, and Modernists can be seen by appointment only.

From The Ramsey Collection, head

north along the west side of the square to view one-of-a kind handmade, wheelthrown stoneware by Christy Chapman.

Pieces are available for purchase.

Continue to Bill Chappell’s art gallery on the north side of the square to view authentic Western scenes captured on canvas and in bronze. Many of the pieces are available for purchase. 

Vessels of Hope

115 N Rice inside One Way Coffee & Pizza

115 E Henry 512-497-5223 billchappellart.com

Bill Chappell Art Gallery

Sip & Savor Escape the hustle to enjoy a glass of wine with friends by the huge rock fireplace or outside on the patio overlooking the serene Gholson Creek valley. Charcuterie trays featuring local favorites and wood-fired flat-bread pizzas available.

Red Wing Dove Vineyard & Winery

40 Visit

9112 FM 2005 Hamilton, Texas 254-386-7359

Hamilton

TasTing Room oPEn FRiday, 4 - 7 Pm saTuRday 1 - 7 Pm

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Hamilton municipal airport Located on U.S. Highway 281 three miles south of Hamilton, Hamilton Municipal Airport offers a gateway to the world.

The runway is 5,012 feet long with plenty of ramp area for private jets. Hamilton has both Jet-A and 100LL fuel. Selfservice fuel is available 24 hours a day with a major credit card and full-service fuel is available by appointment.

A courtesy car is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Splash. Soar. Stroll.

Hamilton city pool

Hamilton City Swimming Pool is 3,700-plus square-feet of summer fun for Hamilton families. The historic pool house was built in the 1930s as a WPA project. Located at 321 East Pierson, the pool is near downtown along the city park trails.

Hamilton city parks Hamilton takes pride in 78 acres of beautiful parks. Walk along the picturesque1.5-mile paved nature trail at Pecan Creek Park, and stop to take pleasure in the park that features playgrounds and a sports complex. The Bulman Bridge was relocated from the Leon River. The rare bowstring iron bridge now leads pedestrians and cyclists to a local nature trail. Fair Park is equipped with a baseball field, rodeo arena, pavilion, RV spots and livestock barns. New to the park is an 18-hole disc golf course.

www.hamiltontexas.com

Telling Stories

Hamilton author and historian Jim Eidson writes fiction rooted in history. In addition to his books, Eidson has worked extensively with the Hamilton County Historical Commission. Enjoy some of his research on the interpretive signs located outside downtown businesses and the oral history at historicalcommission.org.

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By Maria Weaver

any writers have a muse, an inspiration, the catalyst by which the words form, and the story emerges.

For Hamilton writer Jim Eidson, the soil is the muse. And as he enters his golden years and contemplates the future, returning to his most constant protagonist is the most natural outcome he can imagine.

“The land is always a character in my writing,” says the retired range ecologist. “It’s easier to write about the land than a human protagonist.”

Throughout his life, he has been influenced by the writings of John Graves, a retired Fort Worth newsman who found himself living at Chalk Mountain writing about the earth and human history; and Larry McMurtry, who brought to life an era with his “Lonesome Dove” and “Anything for Billy.”

“You have to get the reader to suspend disbelief,” Eidson says. “If we are to be in 19th century Central Texas, then I have to bring that time alive in the way the character speaks. It was not speaking like we do; it’s a strange vernacular – a Southern dialect with black influences and a larger vocabulary than 21st-century Americans. It’s fascinating for me and a challenge to keep it from being dense or flowery but palatable to the 21st-century ear.”

Eidson knows the dialect well. His

Edwardian grandparents lived at Aleman with no television or telephone until 1975 when his grandmother discovered

I just told family stories - embellished. ~ Jim Eidson soap operas.

“They spoke that language,” he says.

“They were educated and very bright, but their isolation kept the speech intact. Their manner was very much from the Victorian-Edwardian era. It still fascinates me.”

In his books, “Last Old Bear” and “Orphans Afield,” he creates the world of the mid-19th to early 20th century in central Texas.

“I torture my characters,” he says with a chuckle. “Somebody’s gonna die, and somebody’s gonna get their heart broken.”

In “Last Old Bear,” Sam Wood has great adventures growing up in Hamilton County, being raised by stoic elderly relatives intent on making a young gentleman of the creek-haunting, barefoot urchin. His close encounters include a face-to-face with the last bear in the county and “borrowing” a

Your local land expert in Hamilton, TX. Give me a call. I would love to learn about your property or the property of your dreams!

Triple B Ranch

$750,000 • 133.68 Acres

car for a midnight cross-county trek.

As a young man, Sam falls in love with a nurse, Kate, who moves off to Chicago.

As an old man, he still thinks of his great desire, being in love with an allusion.

“What he has left is his land,” Eidson says, “his first love. And we can see the sunset, and the Leon River terraces as they change colors, and an errant breeze caresses his face.

“Sam’s Uncle Gus was good to him and took him places. I had an uncle like that. I just told family stories – embellished – until Sam got snakebit.

Then the character began to drive the narrative.”

In “Orphans Afield,” Andrew Jackson is a conflicted Kickapoo Indian and protégé to a Methodist minister. Jackson, a Union sympathizer, has escaped Confederate vigilantes by fleeing to the frontier and joining a ranging company.

Summary execution of sympathizers was common. History tells that forty-two such were hanged in one day in 1862 Gainesville.

If he lived in a frontier county like Hamilton, he could escape conscription, so he ends up in Hamilton where he becomes a scout on the Battle of Dove Creek and encounters nine hundred Kickapoo trying to get to Mexico.

Jackson joins up with Esker Doyle, son of Illinois farmers, and together they confront Comanches, deserters and

Ashley Adams 254.688.0087

AshleyAdams@HaydenOutdoors.com

Red Wing Dove Winery and Vineyard $2,500,000 • 79.61 Acres

WhiteStone Ranch, Tract 2 $598,800 • 80.00 Acres

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themselves in a story of loss and redemption, a Civil War story seldom tackled.

Eidson has just finished his notyet-titled third book, which is about a house in Jefferson. Charity is raised on a dirtwater ditch and wooed by a cotton broker, which significantly and quickly raises her social status; Hope, who occupies the house in the thirties through the fifties, is a product of the Depression. The book examines their similarities and intersections.

“They begin to perceive each other, to know each other,” Eidson says.

His books are fiction, rooted in history, and while he is not a character in his own works, Eidson lurks in the psyche of his fictional friends. He is woven into each page as he shares the stories that formed him.

“I’ve never been a hunter, but I spent a huge part of my childhood climbing the creek beds and the bottomland hardland forest,” he says. “I never went to reform school, but I was threatened with it. I know the stories, and I know it is not a place you wanted to go. I heard it was at the time hell on earth.

I understand why a tornado is like the hand of God, which is what set Sam loose.

“These are stories from my father, who was born in 1921, for instance, about an after-school picnic with boards on sawhorses and everyone rode horses, but there were also cars and

even airplanes.

“They played a game where they would grease a goose, hang it by its feet and ride at a gallop trying to wring its neck.

The winner got the goose. My father’s horse was named Galloping Godfrey.”

With all the stories swimming in his head, Eidson knew he had enough material for a book.

“I always thought I could,” he says. “I tried before without success.

“I started back at 50 on ‘Last Old Bear.’

I wrote my way into it. I just started writing about my great-grandfather’s house, things I saw and heard from Aunt Mabel, and imagining the town in 1910.”

When asked what he requires when he writes, he says, “Rumination requires certain ephemera,” employing some of his best five-dollar words.

Sitting in a huge chair in an old house

inhabited by the spirits of his ancestors, the encouragement of wife Anita, his trusty laptop and a hefty wad of snuff, Eidson sets words to paper, continuing to braid the stories of days of yore.

Concerning his recent cancer diagnosis, he says, “This cancer has given me a perverse celebrity, but my disease aint’t who I am. It ain’t really me.”

Sharing his journey via Facebook and the Hamilton Herald-News, he has gained much attention from his followers.

Pondering the future, he philosophically thinks of his muse.

Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

“I’m going to live life a day at a time, go with the flow,” he says.

And when the time comes, like the characters he’s created, he will quietly return to his first love. 

Jim Eidson’s books are available at the Hamilton Herald-News, Amazon and the Hamilton Public Library.

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Member FDIC

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When you absolutely want to feel better...

Trust your hometown pharmacy.

QUALIFIED • ACCURATE• CONVENIENT

Your prescription is our #1 priority

VISITING AND FORGOT YOUR MEDICATION? We can help! 254-386-3111

►Friendly Attentive Team ►Rx Sync Program - We can help you manage your prescriptions!

►Specialty Wellness Products and Supplements ►Compounding - Medication not available?

Need another dosage form? We will make it in our compounding lab with superior ingredients.

254-386-3111 ♦ 107 North Rice Street, Hamilton ♦ jordanpharmacy@ embarqmail.com

The restored courtroom on the second floor of the courthouse.

Hamilton County telling the story of Hamilton County

Military and Billy the Kid collections in the historic jail 113 West Henry in Hamlton Open Saturdays at 1 p.m. or by appointment 254-688-0165.

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Lady Justice stands behind the judge's bench.

Jurors bench

Order in the Court Hamilton County Courthouse

he pride of Hamilton County residents and a favorite stop for visitors, the Hamilton County courthouse was originally built in 1878. It burned twice before the current courthouse was built in 1887. It was modernized and expanded in 1932 to include wings and the bell tower. In 2013 the building was restored to its 1930s Art Deco form.

The Hamilton County Courthouse is the only one in the State with crenellated towers.

The inside of the courthouse is as beautiful and unique as the outside. 

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47

Enjoy a Sunset!

Photo by Michael Wallis Photography

hat We love w we do and too! you will,

dig this!

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

22 years of serving Hamilton TX Lic #18470 BP#14372

48

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620 S. Rice in Hamilton colin.digthis@yahoo.com A Hamilton

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Or spot the local wildlife.

Photo by Hunter Yarbrough Photo by Michael Wallis Photography

Photo by Hunter Yarbrough

Photo by Hunter Yarbrough

Photo by Michael Wallis Photography

Arrangements • Home Decor & Furnishings • Clothing • Jewelry • Gifts

Hamilton Floral & Gifts 114 N. Bell, Hamilton • 254-386-3194 A Hamilton

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Visit.

Enjoy.

Share.

Win.

visit

hamilt n 

VISITOR S AND N EWCOME RS GUID E

shop • eat •play

•stay •explore •

live •share

Congratulations Karla Curry!

Share the hometown you love and win a dinner for two and a one-night stay at Circle T Inn and Resort.

Simply take the Visit Hamilton magazine with you when you visit other communities and leave it for others to enjoy. Snap a photo of yourself with the guide in your sharing location and upload it to social media. Be sure to #sharehamiltontx. Winner will be announced in the 2022 Visit Hamilton.

2021-2022 FREE

NTEST WINNER

Karla won a dinner for two and a one-night stay at Circle T Inn and Resort.

Share your Visit Hamilton magazine and you could win, too!

2021 SHARE CO

Must be 21 years to enter. Dinner includes two entries at Crossfire Steakhouse and Cantina.

HAMILTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 103 1/2 Rice Street • Hamilton, TX 76531

254-386-3216

hamiltontexaschamberofcommerce.com

#sharehamiltontx

ASSISTED LIVING

ASSISTED L

The next best thing to home.

The next best thin

ASSISTED LIVING

Call us to find out more about living at thing to home.

Theabout next best Call us to find out more living at The Whitestone and to arrange a tour.

The Whitestone and to arrange a tour.

ONE BEDROOM approx. 525 sq. ft.

• Large closets Call us to find out more about livin • Weekly housekeeping ASSISTED LIVING and to arrange at •Call Individually-controlled usThe to fiWhitestone nd out more about living • Transportation servicesat

STUDIO approx.apartments 445 sq. ft. with • Spacious 9-foot ceilings

The next best thing to home.

heatingSTUDIO and air approx. 445 sq. ft.

ONEaBEDROOM The Whitestone and to arrange tour. approx. 5

STUDIOapprox.

STUDIO STUDIO approx. 445 445sq. sq. sq.ft.ft. ft.

ONEBEDROOM BEDROOM approx.

ONE ONE BEDROOM approx.525 525sq. sq. sq.ft. ft. ft.

Call us to find out more about living at The Whitestone and to arrange a tour.

STUDIO approx. 445 sq. ft.

ONE BEDROOM approx. 525 sq. ft.

The Whitestone ASSISTED LIVING

100 Alamo Drive • Comanche, Texas 76442

325-356-9303

TheThe Whitestone The Whitestone Whitestone ASSISTED LIVING thewhitestone@comanchecmc.com

An equal opportunity provider and employer

ID# 101251 A Not-for-Profit Facility

ASSISTED LIVINGLIVING ASSISTED

The Whitestone 100 Alamo Drive • Comanche, Texas 76442 325-356-9303

100 100 Alamo Alamo Drive Drive •• Comanche, Comanche,Texas Texas 76442 76442

100 Alamo Drive • Comanche, Texas 76442 An Anequal equalopportunity opportunity provider providerand andemployer employer

ASSISTED LIVING thewhitestone@comanchecmc.com thewhitestone@comanchecmc.com 325-356-9303 100 Alamo Drive325-356-9303 • Comanche, Texas 76442

ID# ID# 101251 101251 thewhitestone@comanchecmc.com thewhitestone@comanchecmc.com AANot-for-Profi Not-for-Profitt Facility Facility

An equal opportunity provider and employer An equal opportunity An equal opportunity provider and employer provider and employer

325-356-9303

101251 ID# 101251 A Not-for-ProfitID# Facility thewhitestone@comanchecmc.com

A Not-for-Profit Facility ID# 101251 A Not-for-Profit Facility

Looking for more?

Check out downtowntx.org

Looking for more?

Check out downtowntx.org

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Hamilton Main Street District &Hamilton Legend

Main Street District & Legend

52 Visit

Hamilton

Hamilton Main Other: Street District Legend Alley Parks & Greenspace Main Street District

Other:

Private Property

Public AlleyParking

Vacant Parks & Greenspace

Main Street Parking Lot District

Private Property Walking Trail

Public Parking

Vacant

Parking Lot

Walking Trail

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Herald-News publication

Hamilton Main Street District Agriculture/Housing Services A1 104 N. Bell, Davidson-Craig Real Estate A2 214-220 N. Bell, Kinsey’s Efficiency Apartments A3 100 N. Bell, McGregor Real Estate A4 200 S. Rice, Shockley Engineering & Surveying A5 201 E. Leslie, Texas-New Mexico Power Company Office A6 420 N. Bell, Texas-New Mexico Power Company Power Station A7 204-210 S. Rice, The Hamiltonian Defense D1 204 W. Main, Hamilton Police Department D2 104 W. Henry, Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department

Educational E1 211-C N. Rice, Billy the Kid Memorial Museum E2 115 W. Henry, Hamilton County Historical Museum - Candle Factory E3 215 W. Henry, Hamilton County Historical Museum - Cotton Gin E4 209 W. Henry, Hamilton County Historical Museum - Farm and Ranch E5 111 W. Henry, Hamilton County Historical Museum – Jail E6 201 N. Pecan, Hamilton Public Library Government G1 103 ½ N Rice, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton EDC & Main Street Offices G2 204 W. Main, Hamilton City Hall G3 119 E. Henry, Hamilton County Appraisal District G4 101 E. Henry, Hamilton County Annex G5 102 N. Rice, Hamilton County Courthouse G6 122 N. Bell, Hamilton EDC Building Project G7 120 S. Rice, United States Post Office Healthcare/Personal Care H1 211-A N. Rice, Bulldog Nail Bar H2 21 N. Rice, Clark Dentistry H3 113 E. Leslie, Crouch Clinic H4 310 E. Main, Ford Dentistry H5 107 N. Rice, Jordan Pharmacy H6 222 N. Bell, Kunkel Chiropractic H7 114 E. Main, Lee Healthcare Home Health H8 116 E. Main, Lee Healthcare Medical Supply H9 105 E. Henry, Ray’s City Drug H10 120 E. Main, Rejuvenation Station Salon H11 106 N. Bell, Texas Cutz Barber Shop Recreation/Culture C1 115 E. Henry, Chappell Cowboy Art & Museum C2 303 E. Main, Ensor RV Park

Commerce/Trade Convenience Stores T1 218 S. Rice, Allsup Convenience Store T2 312 N. Rice, CEFCO Convenience Store (Subway Inside) Finance & Insurance T3 113 E. Henry, Edward Jones T4 116 S. Bell, H&R Block T5 110 N. Bell, Melanie J. Financial T6 204 N. Bell, Shu E. Tan CPA T7 111 E. Henry, Germania Insurance / Partin Agency Professional Services T8 107 S. Rice, Hamilton County Abstract T9 100 W. Main, McMullen & Henkes Law Office T10 111 E. Henry, Puff Law Firm T11 112 N. Bell, Yates Law and Title Printing Services T12 101 N. Rice, Hamilton-Herald News T13 206 N. Bell, Hamilton Printing

& Greenspace Property

Retail T14 107-108 107-108 E.E.Henry, Pecan Creek Henry, Pecan Creek Outfitters Outfitters T15 123 123 E. Henry, Burlap Burlap Rose Rose Florist Florist&& Antiques Antiques T16 205 205 N. Bell, C-Sharp Knife Knife Sharpening Sharpening T17 114 114 N. Bell, Hamilton Hamilton Floral Floral&&Gifts Gifts T18 113-115 113-115 S. Bell, Bell, Hometown Hometown Designz/Things LovedLoved Designz/Things T19 108 E. E. Main, Main, Rountree T19 108 Rountree Appliance Appliance T20 205 E. Henry, Tobacco And Fun Cage T20 205 E. Henry, Tobacco And Fun Cage Other Services T21 207 S. Bell, Auto Repair T22 410 N. Bell, Craig Implement T23 306 E. Main, Hamilton Glass Works

C3 108 W. Ross, Hamilton Civic Theatre C4 206 E. Boynton, Master Gardeners C5 111 N. Rice, The Gallery C6 100 E. Main, The Ramsey Collection Religious R1 220 S. Bell, First Baptist Church R2 215 W. Main, First United Methodist Church R3 302 N. Rice & 303 N. Bell, Outreach Church of Christ R4 120 W. Main, St. Mary’s Anglican Church

g Trail

Social Dining S1 S2 S3 S4 S5

121 E. Henry, China Wok 223 N. Rice, Country Donuts 200 N. Bell, El Jardin Mexican Restaurant 320 N. Bell, Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant 110 S. Bell, The Grain Drafthouse & Eatery S6 100 N. Railroad, Kelsey’s Street Eats S7 115 N. Rice, One Way Coffee & Pizza & KCLW Radio S8 312 N. Rice, Subway (Inside CEFCO Convenience Store) S9 210 N. Bell, Wenzel’s Lonestar Meat Co. Non-Profit S10 110 W. Ross, Hamilton United Care Event Centers S11 110 E. Main, Lee Conference Center S12 110 W. Main, McMullen Event Center Historical Markers Within Map

1

102 N. Rice, Hamilton County Courthouse 101 E. Henry, Hamilton National Bank 2 200 W. Main, Col. George R. Freeman 3 110 W. Main, Knights of Pythias Lodge 4 Hall 5 121 S. Rice, Manning-GordonHenderson House 6 120 W. Main, St. Mary’s Anglican Church 7 215 W. Main, First United Methodist Church 8 102 N. Rice (SW corner of courthouse lawn), Elise Waerenskjold 9 102 N. Rice (SW corner of courthouse lawn), Ann Whitney North of Boundaries 10 West of N. US 281 & North of W. Little, Hamilton County 1936 Texas Centennial Highway Marker 11 567 N. Rice (NE Corner in I.O.O.F. Cemetery), William Thatcher Baker Grave 12 567 N. Rice (Within Hamilton Cemetery), John J. (“Jack”) Durham Grave 13 201 W. Ross, Francis Marion Graves Home 14 608 N. Rice, Presbyterian Church 15 567 N. Rice (Within Old Hamilton Cemetery), Ann Whitney Grave South of Boundaries 16 220 S. Bell, First Baptist Church of Hamilton 17 222 E. Baker, Twin Oaks

Start at the courthouse and enjoy the historical marker walking tour at the heart of Hamilton's Main Street.

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HICO, TEXAS - Hico is a small town full of historical charm, wide open spaces, fantastic food, great shopping, fun outdoor activities and wonderful people.

From farm-to-table fare to famous homemade pie, authentic Mexican food to the best burger in Texas, there’s always good food to eat and good people to share it with in Hico.

Shop the day away in Downtown Hico where you’ll find antiques, art, home decor, handmade chocolates and more. The only thing you can’t buy is the small town charm.

Reach new heights in a converted silo turned climbing gym. Take the disc golf course for a spin or cool off at the splash pad with a homemade ice cream sandwich.

After a fun day of shopping, exploring and good food, get some rest and relaxation in a vintage Airstream, historic boutique hotel or bed and breakfast. Kick your boots off and stay a while in Historic Hico, Texas.

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STEPHENVILLE  TX Cowboy Capital of the World

Start with a stroll around the historic square, followed by one of our many outdoor adventures, then mix in some live music and top it off with a mouthwatering meal.

We welcome you to make yourself at home, explore our community and enjoy our warm STEPHENVILLE welcome.

UPCOMING EVENTS: September

Larry Joe Taylor Music Festival Cowboy Capital of the World Pro Rodeo

November

Christmasville Light Parade

December

Light Up the Night

April

Larry Joe Taylor Music Festival Tarleton Stampede Rodeo

June

Moo-La Fest

July

Independence Day Celebration

For hotel and event info, give us a call at (254) 552-1222 or email: tourism@stephenvilletx.gov

visitstephenville.com 56

Visit Hamilton

STEPHENVILLE, TEXAS - The Cowboy Capital of the World, our 53rd annual Pro Rodeo kicks off the last full weekend of September each year at Lone Star Arena. Join us for the last competition weekend before the finals in Las Vegas and watch the best of this sport compete!

If you love Texas music, then you’ll love the annual Larry Joe Taylor Music Festival. This year’s events will be held at Melody Mountain Ranch September 13-18, 2021, and April 25-30, 2022.

There’s music on multiple stages throughout the festival, with camping and one-day or multi-day passes available.

Pick up your pumpkins at Lone Star Family Farm and Corn Maze each fall and get lost in family fun.

With the corn maze, hayrides and farm animals, there’s fun for all ages. Plus their fall-themed backdrops are picture perfect for fall family photos.

In Stephenville, you better come hungry because we’re famous for our Hard Eight BBQ and Jake & Dorothy’s chicken fried steaks. Our historic downtown features Greer’s Ranch Café, Ruby’s Texas Bistro and Caam’s Pizza.

While you’re downtown, make sure you stop in our unique boutiques such as Julianne’s, Willow’s Scarlet Ribbon, Blue-Eyed Buffalo, Scott’s Flowers, Punchy’s, Frames, Etc., Slim Pickins Outfitters, Thousand Miles and more. Pinspiration craft studio offers a variety of projects to create on your own schedule.

Our beautiful Bosque River Trail spans 2.6 miles from the Stephenville City Park to the trailhead at Highway 8. The walk, hike and bike nature pathway boasts river views, native plants and grasses along the way.

Veldhuizen Farm and Cheese Shop offers farm tours and tastings each Saturday. With more than twenty artisan cheeses to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find a favorite or two! In addition to cheese, their shop also features yogurt, specialty foods, cookbooks and more.

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BEN HOGAN MUSEUM Working closely with the Ben Hogan Foundation and the Hogan family, the Dublin museum tells the remarkable story of how the family’s blacksmith shop influenced a young boy who, without knowing anything about the world of golf, would become the greatest ballstriker of all time and the manufacturer of some of the finest golf equipment ever made. It is the story of one man’s courage and determination that not only made him a champion and an icon of golf, but also a role model of hard work and focus. 121 E Blackjack St in Dublin, Texas

FRONTLINE HEROES MUSEUM The nation’s only museum dedicated to frontline heroes, the National Health & Public Safety History Museum houses thousands of artifacts, hands-on learning opportunities and in-depth tours. Journey through America’s development of healthcare, emergency medical care, disaster response, emergency management, firefighting, law enforcement and so much more. Your visit to this unique attraction will forever change the way you look at both the history and the future of health and public safety in America. 136 E Blackjack St in Dublin, Texas

RODEO HERITAGE MUSEUM The Rodeo Heritage Museum in Dublin, Texas, tells the nearly forgotten story of the beginnings of modern rodeo and the cowboys and cowgirls who put on the show. The backstory of the exhibit showcases the company that supplied rodeo stock and performers to some of the world’s greatest rodeos for 22 years.

Learn the story of the Lightning C Ranch, Everett Colborn, Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and some of the greatest cowboys and cowgirls of all time. 118 W Blackjack St in Dublin, Texas

DUBLIN HISTORICAL MUSEUM Travel back through the decades for a look at how Dublin settlers lived, worked, played, learned, served and worshiped. From the early settlers to present day, this Dublin museum’s collection is thorough and impressive. 116 W Blackjack St in Dublin, Texas

DUBLIN  TX Irish Capital of Texas

DUBLIN, TEXAS - A historical pot of gold is located at the intersection of Highway 67/377 and Highway 6.

Dublin is home to four museums highlighting its rich history and ties to legendary golfer Ben Hogan, the early days of rodeo with Everett Colborn and the Lightning C Ranch and America’s frontline heroes.

Officially named the “Irish Capital of Texas” in 2005, Dublin hosts a huge St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in March and the annual Irish Stampede 10-5-2K in June. You might even sight a leprechaun around town! Catch him and he’ll pose for a photo. But don’t pinch him too hard!

Shop 100-year-old businesses alongside new and unique shops and boutiques.

Savor the flavors of Dublin eateries. Enjoy sampling artisan cheeses and yogurts made in Dublin. Be sure to stop at the winery and bottling works, too.

Come and visit Dublin -- you’ll be glad you did!

A Hamilton

Herald-News publication

The official “Irish Capital of Texas,” DUBLIN is a small town with a big personality.

Brimming with rich history, Dublin offers unique shops, museums and festive gatherings. Come and visit you’ll be glad you did.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Sept. 11

9-11 Memorial Events and Stair Climb/Walk

Sept. 17-19

Hispanic Heritage Festival

October

Flight Night at the Airport

December

Christmas Parade & Visit with Santa

March

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

May

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

June

Ben Hogan Golf Series Irish Stampede 10-5-2K

For hotel and event info, give us a call at (254) 300-6263

dublintxchamber.com Visit Hamilton

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COMANCHE  TX

We’ve been waiting for you!

Nestled at the tip top of the Hill Country, COMANCHE is a town steeped in heritage & history, bustling with small town friendly folk and boasting countless adventures.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Sept. 25-26 POW-WOW October Sippin’ in the Sunshine 1st Friday Deer Hunters’ in November Chili Supper December Christmas in Comanche 1st Saturday Comanche Market March-December 4th weekend Food Truck Rodeo in March April Sippin’ in the Sunshine TMRA May Fiesta De Momma & Junior Rodeo June Comanche Rodeo Red Dirt Dinner and Dancing Thursdays James in June in June July Salt Lime & a Good Time

For hotel and event info, give us a call at (325) 356-3233

explorecomanchetexas.com 60

Visit Hamilton

COMANCHE, TEXAS - The city of Comanche, named for the Comanche Indians, was established as the trade center for surrounding ranchers and farmers in 1856. Rich in pioneer and Texas history, there are more than 65 registered landmarks in the county.

Comanche has a diversified economic base with ranching and farming continuing to be predominant. Visitors and residents alike are attracted to the unique gift shops, various restauraants, and local artisans’ creations.

Great camping, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails, golf and water sports can all be found at nearby Lake Proctor. Our 42-acre City Park, Twin Creek Hiking Trails, and Community Center attract many visitors and families throughout the year. Offering a variety of experiences for visitors, Comanche provides an ideal location for hunting and fishing.

Take a stroll around our beautiful historical courthouse square and our central business district.

There are many shopping and dining opportunities to encompass everyone’s taste.

Welcome to Comanche. We’ve been waiting for you!

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Herald-News publication

4th weekend in September BBQ Cookoff Vendors Car Show Live Entertainment

October and April Texas Wines Food Trucks Live Music Kids Fun Shopping

Deer Hunter Chili Supper

1st Friday in November on Historic Square Chili Friends Prizes

Christmas IN COMANCHE

December More than 50,000 lights

Welcome to Comanche where everything moves a little slower.

Ice Skating Rink Santa 5K Scuttle Tour of Homes

4th weekend in March

you’re greeted with a warm smile. people still say yes ma’am and no sir.

Food Trucks Texas Country Music Vendors Kids’ Activities

you can enjoy live music and local wine. you can shop for something unique and support local makers & growers. you can spend the day playing golf, relaxing at the lake, or unwinding at the beer garden.

C O M A N C H E

June Two-night rodeo Mutton Bustin’ Live Music Parade

June

325.356.3233

explorecomanchetexas.com

comanchetxchamber@gmail.com

Country music Food trucks Fun for the whole family

Recharge

Buena Vista Wildlife Safari

Visit buenavistawildlifesafari.com to plan your stay.

Follow the animals on Facebook @bvsafari.

nplug and recharge at Buena Vista Wildlife Safari. Whether you are looking for an afternoon outing or a weekend away, Buena Vista in Evant is the perfect getaway.

In addition to breathtaking views, there is always something new to see with more than 23 species of animals from 10 different countries in natural habitats.

Spring brings babies, summer is reminiscent of an African Safari, and the antlers are impressive during the fall and winter months.

Buena Vista is open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Plan your stay in a cabin on the ranch or pull your RV and camp. In addition to the safari the beautiful views, Buena Vista offers a playground, petting zoo, catch and release fish pond, volleyball, croquet, badminton, horseshoes, cornhole, ladderball and more. An event center is available for group gatherings. 

Always putting YOU first!

• Quick Decisions • Locally Serviced Loans • Interim Construction Loans • Home Improvements Loans

115 S Memory Ln

EVANT

254-471-5531 62

Visit Hamilton

3411 E Main St

GATESVILLE 254-865-2783

117 Hwy 1996

OGLESBY

254-470-2261

Help is a phone call away.

For any questions, you can always call to speak to a Loan Officer.

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Find refuge from the hustle in

EVANT THE CROSSROADS OF TEXAS

Stop in and shop locally owned stores featuring art, woodwork, resale items, antiques, home goods, baked goods, and more.

Explore the Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park and linger in one of the beautiful cabins or your own RV overnight. Attend the local rodeo; visit a winery; attend the Pearl Bluegrass Jam and Stage Show. Whatever you choose to do, we hope your trip to Evant will be a refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Photos by Cynthia Cate

   

Evant Rodeo

   

Evant School Homecoming

   

Christmas Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting

 

Evant Market Days in Spring

Fall Chill Car Show & Chili Cookoff Trunk or Treat in the City Park Pearl Bluegrass Jam and Stage Show

For event information, visit evanttexas.com and follow us on Facebook at Evant Chamber of Commerce.

25 years experience

Serving Central Texas Josh Mehaffey

Broker/Associate 915 N US Hwy 281 • Hamilton, Texas 76531

(254) 386-9169

MY TE XASLIFEST YLE .COM

LAWSON WELL SERVICE 33 years serving water well installation and service in Central Texas.

Call 254-386-5053 Linda Lawson Lic.# 58555KP

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Jody Lawson Lic.# 59313KLP

Located at the junction of Highways 281 and 84, an hour from Waco, 1½ hours from Austin, and 2 hours from DFW, Evant is a full family destination.

Visit Hamilton

63

SANDY SOLD IT!

SANDY THOMAS REALTOR 254.263.3311

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Serving Bosque and surrounding counties!

EVANT TX

refuge from the hustle!

EVANT, TEXAS - Located at the junction of Highways 281 and 84, Evant is an hour from Waco, 1½ hours from Austin, and 2 hours from DFW. This quiet farming community is the perfect getaway from stress-filled days and overbooked schedules.

Shop with a purpose at locally owned stores featuring handcrafted art, woodwork, boutiques, antiques, home goods, baked goods, and more. Enjoy Evant Market Days with local artisans and food on the third Saturdays of select months. You will find something for everyone!

Visit the Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park – drive through the safari during the day, then linger in one of the beautiful cabins or your own RV overnight. Wake up to a beautiful view! Attend the local rodeo; visit a winery and attend the Pearl Bluegrass Jam and Stage Show.

Whatever you choose to do, we hope your trip to Evant will be a refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

A Hamilton

Herald-News publication

EVANT is the perfect refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Explore the safari, relax in a rustic cabin and enjoy beautiful views at the at the crossroads of Highway 281 and 84. Come relax in Evant!

UPCOMING EVENTS: Spring

Evant Market Days

Summer

Evant Rodeo Pearl Bluegrass Jam and Stage Show

Sept. 25

Evant Homecoming

Fall

Fall Chili Car Show and Chili Cookoff

October

Trunk or Treat

December

Christmas Parade Christmas Tree Lighting

Evant TX

For event info, call (817) 567 3829

evanttexas.com Visit Hamilton

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A Little Botanical Gardens and ummer at the Texas Botanical Gardens and Native American Interpretive Center in Legacy Plaza makes all of Goldthwaite bloom with color and anticipation as the Flameleaf Sumacs present a spectacular show when they come into bloom.

Around the sumacs, it’s still, peaceful, like a beautiful painting, but the Cowpen daisies greet visitors with bright yellow hellos, tickled by the hundreds of border patch caterpillars chomping at their leaves. Native bunchgrasses with their blue-green hues whisper a song that feeds the soul.

Butterflies flutter in and about the Goldthwaite Middle School Butterfly Garden feasting on the nectar of the diverse and colorful wildflowers, and the antelope horn milkweed seeds burst from

Brad Martin bmartin2@txfb-ins.com 254.485.3171

Merridee Wells mwells@txfb-ins.com 254.223.0054

HAM0820

•

Custom red meat processing facility

•

Catering to growers and direct marketers of beef and pork.

•

Centrally located in Evant, Texas

932 N. US HWY 281 • Evant, Texas 76525 (254) 471-5300 • ioranchmeats.com

Kelly A Kuhl Kelly A Kuhl Financial Advisor Kelly A Kuhl Financial Advisor MKT-1952G-A

USDA inspected

MKT-1952G-A

•

MKT-1952G-A

Dan Davidson ddavidson1@txfb-ins.com 254.760.3030

edwardjones.com

edwardjones.com Member SIPC

edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Financial Advisor 113 B East Henry 113Hamilton, B East Henry TX 76531 113 B East Henry Hamilton, TX 76531 254-386-3855 Hamilton, TX 76531 254-386-3855 254-386-3855

Member SIPC

Committed to Excellence

Calvin Burks, Broker 254-471-5944 • 254-865-3601 Johnny Burks, Agent 254-223-0833

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e Bit of Paradise Native American Interpretive Center their pods and make billowy white clouds that turn into beautiful flowers for the monarchs.

Imagination also is bursting near the amphitheater where dozens of excited and energetic kids in the summer Tails and Tales camp learn about edible and medicinal plants in the garden followed by story time with artist Martha Guillotte Carson and children’s author and good steward of the land Beth Griess.

The project began in 2004 as a downtown revitalization program. A 1914 Sears Craftsman House was donated in 2009 and became a meeting place including a Native American room for children. Ground was broken for the gardens in 2013, and it opened in 2014. The welcome center opened in 2015 and pavilion in 2016.

For a peaceful walk, a time of meditation or just to watch the beautiful flowers dangle and dance gently in the breeze, visit Legacy Plaza and see the little bit of paradise Goldthwaite volunteers have created. 

Make plans to attend Heritage Fest, the annual Prairie Experience that raises funds for the center, on October 2. Tickets are available at legacyplaza.org.

Moore’s Service Center SINCE 1991

1425 E. Highway 84 Star, TX 76880

325-948-3595

MooresServiceCenter.com

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GOLDTHWAITE  TX A great place to live and visit

GOLDTHWAITE is defined less by boundaries on a map than by the sense of shared values our residents hold dear. Small town values, guided growth, and preservation of historical, cultural and natural heritage are just a few of the core principles that make Goldthwaite a wonderful place to visit or call home.

UPCOMING EVENTS: 4th weekend State Championship BBQ in April & Goat Cook-off July

Patriot Celebration

October

Prairie Experience

November

Hunters’ Appreciation Chili Lunch

December

Parade of Lights

For hotel and event info, give us a call at (325) 648-3619

visitgoldthwaite.com 68

Visit Hamilton

GOLDTHWAITE, TEXAS - A central Texas town brimming with promise and the charms of small-town life, Goldthwaite is located just down the road from everywhere. Our welcoming community is built upon connection and friendship, wide-open spaces, entrepreneurial spirit and the enjoyment of high-quality living.

Whether it is your love of shopping, a delicious meal with friends or a well deserved, relaxing weekend get away, you have come to the right place.

Goldthwaite offers a wide range of events from outdoor concerts, community theater, seasonal festivals and sports competitions, to spending time in our local parks and relaxing with your family for an afternoon of outdoor fun.

Legacy Plaza, consisting of The Texas Botanical Gardens and The Goldthwaite Welcome Center, offer a variety of onand off-site educational programming for children and adults alike through field trips, presentations and interactive hands-on experiences.

Dedicated in memory of J. Waddy Bullion, the Gardens are open daily for visitors.

We invite you to discover the good life that Goldthwaite offers.

A Hamilton

Herald-News publication

r e v o c s i D great outdoors the

Goldthwaite in

T E X A S

1219 FISHER STREET • GOLDTHWAITE, TEXAS 76844 • 325-648-3619 • VISITGOLDTHWAITE.COM

f October 2, 2021 f Save the Date!

Heritage Fest

12th Annual Prairie Experience

Tickets/donations available online at www.legacyplaza.org  325-451-0487

A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

CATKINS BALL

COW CAMP COOKOFF

Risien Park

APRIL 2022

Risien Park

JUNE 10-11, 2022

Celebrating

Texas Independence Day Mill Pond Park

MARCH 5, 2022

The best kept

Photo by Marshal McIntosh

secret in Texas WE THE PEOPLE TH 4 OF JULY EXTRAVAGANZA

Photo by Fou

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Mill Pond Park

JULY 4, 2022

h Hallmark

Photo by Mitc

San Saba River Golf Course is an eighteen-hole course featuring 6,904 yards of play from its longest tees. The course is renowned for its challenging play and quiet, scenic beauty. Adjacent to the course is the San Saba River RV Park and Clubhouse Facility.

723 County Road 102; 325-372-3212

DIEZ Y SEIS CELEBRATION Risien Park

SEPTEMBER 17

11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Food & Entertainment

visitsansabatexas.com Brought to you by San Saba Economic Development Corporation.

Photo by Round Rock Ballet Folklori

ca

CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA Sip ‘N Stroll • Lighted Christmas Parade Santa’s Workshop

DECEMBER 10

SAN SABA  TX More than you imagined!

SAN SABA, TEXAS - San Saba, settled in 1854, is a picturesque Texas Hill Country community where rolling hills, historic bridges, turn of the century homes and restored downtown buildings abound. Nestled among countless pecan orchards, we are known as the “Pecan Capital of the World” with pecans, wheat, cattle, stone processing, tourism and hunters being our major industries.

With a population of 3,212, our rural town is the largest of five communities in our county of 6,227 residents.

Come stay a while and relax at one of our exclusive downtown lodging accommodations, within walking distance to explore downtown San Saba.

A unique shopping experience; from browsing one of Texas’s largest boot and hat selections, sipping on awardwinning wine, finding a vintage antique or a finely crafted treasure. Take a break from shopping to enjoy a delicious meal at one of our fine restaurants.

Try diverse cuisine-including salads made with exclusively-grown San Saba ingredients, specialty sandwiches, traditional Mexican, hearty Italian and perfectly grilled steaks.

After a great meal, take a stroll along one of the many paved trails winding through miles of beautiful parks.

A Hamilton

Herald-News publication

The Pecan Capital of the World, SAN SABA boasts the charm of small-town Texas with outdoor fun and urban luxury. Explore historical downtown for great shopping and delicious food. San Saba is truly more than you imagined.

UPCOMING EVENTS: September 17 Diez y Seis Celebration December 10 Christmas Extravaganza March 5

A Night at the Museum

April 23

Catkins Ball

June 10-11

Cow Camp Cookoff

July 4

We the People July 4 Extravaganza

For hotel and event info, give us a call at (325) 372-5200

visitsansabatexas.com Visit Hamilton

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Feel the Magic Bosque Arts Center

here’s magic in Clifton, and it’s all coming from an old Hamilton art student Brittany Embrey took third building on the corner of place with “Your So Golden” at the BAC HIgh School Art Show. town.

Home to the Tin Building Theater and the Roland Jones Memorial Art Gallery, Bosque Arts Center is the place to be for fine arts and entertainment.

Located in the historic Clifton Lutheran College administration building erected in 1923, BAC houses one of the state’s most unique galleries, the Roland Jones Memorial Gallery, featuring permanent and rotating exhibits throughout the year.

BAC has hosted Marty Haggard for the Texas Troubadour Songwriter Classic, T. Graham Brown and Marcia Ball, plays including “Arsenic and Watch for BAC events at Old Lace,” “Driving Miss Daisy” www.bosqueartscenter.org and “The Miracle Worker,” musicals

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including “Godspell” and “Grease” and educational events featuring noted western artists Martin Grelle, Bruce Greene, Tony Eubanks, George Hallmark, George Boutwell and more than 20 other working artists and sculptors who call Clifton Home.

The center also includes the Artisan/Pottery Guild, Bosque Book Club, Bosque Garden Club and the Culinary Club that hold a myriad of workshops, classes, book reviews, yoga classes, karate, weaving, crochet, watercolor, guitar and piano lessons.

The Imagination Factory, a summer camp for children, has been a Clifton favorite for twenty years.

But the magic comes from the hundreds of volunteers whose passion and talent make a visit to BAC a truly one-of-a-kind experience. 

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CLIFTON  TX

Far enough away to relax ...close enough to drive!

CLIFTON, TEXAS - Located in Central Texas, a quick 30 minutes northwest of Waco on Hwy 6, Clifton’s authentic charm is hard to resist! As Clifton has been designated the “Norwegian Capital of Texas,” you can spend the day visiting our historic Norwegian churches or shop our unique downtown boutiques and antique stores to find a Norwegian memento. Immerse yourself for an hour at the Bosque Museum exhibits which clearly depict the lives of early Norwegian settlers. The descendants of these settlers donated many historical items, records, photos, clothing and tools, which they had harbored for many years, to create a highly detailed collection.

As one of 43 Texas Cultural Districts, Clifton is also home to the highly renowned Bosque Arts Center, where nationally known artists gather annually for the Bosque Art Classic, a major show and sale. A surprise awaits all art lovers in the Jones Art Gallery on the second level, featuring an extraordinary exhibition of prize-winning artists, such as Martin Grelle, Nancy Boren, Bill Nebecker and Mary Buchholz, and many more.

Featuring more than 25 places to eat or relax with a cocktail, Clifton offers some of the tastiest cuisine in Central Texas. Enjoy easy access to an array of locally-owned shops, where you will find one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothing, home décor and more.

Discover Clifton!

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CLIFTON - Escaping the crowds and enjoying a sample of small-town life will prove very rewarding and totally rejuvenating; make plans soon to enjoy fabulous food and drinks and stay a night or several at one of the quaint B&Bs located in or near downtown.

Upcoming Events: September 11 36th Annual Art Classic BAC September 18 T Graham Brown Concert BAC October 16

Fall Fest

November 6

Texas Troubadour Songwriter Classic BAC

November 13

Norse Smorgasbord

December 3

Lighted Christmas Parade

December 4

Norwegian Country Christmas

December 4

Lutefisk Dinner

2 Weekend in April

County-Wide Garage Sale

3rd Saturday in May

Bosque Tour de Norway Bike Rally

nd

For hotel and event info, call 1-800-344-3720

visitclifton.org

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Bacon. Beer. Bands. hink you’ve got what it takes to bring home the bacon? Well, get a cooking team together and head for Cranfills Gap. The 10th annual Bacon Bash Texas is set for October 16 in downtown Cranfills Gap by the Horny Toad Bar and Grill, and the table judging panel includes six celebrity food experts.

Taking on the porcine challenge are Cowboy Chef Newton, masterchef and owner of Newton’s Cellar; Paige Murray, author of “Southern Fried Skinnyfied;” Mike Micallef, president of Reata; David Kersh, HGTV’s Battle on the Beach and co-owner of Kersh Construction; Kaci Riggs Myers, designer for Charlie 1 Horse and owner of Outlaw Spirit; and Steve Gaconnier, CEO of Janimation.

Fifty cookoff teams will create appetizers, entrees, desserts and even drinks using bacon. Winners from the past have included Swine Me, Dine Me; Sommerfeld, Some

are Not; Pigskin Smokers; and Achin’ for Bacon. First place winners receive cash prizes and their name, bio and recipe on the back of 40,000 packages of Pederson’s Natural Farms bacon distributed nationwide.

Entertainment will feature Sundance Head, Huser Brother Band, Ryan Turner and Ariel Hutchins.

All the bacon you can stand to pig out on is included in the ticket price. Beer, bloody marys and mixed drinks are also free. Bacon, beer, bands. That’ll give ya something to oink about!

Proceeds benefit Niki Warms the Cold and children with Type 1 diabetes. More than half a million dollars have been raised for these charities by Bacon Bash Texas since 2012.

Niki Warms the Cold is a charity in memory of Cranfills Gap native Niki Carlson. Nicki dreamed of keeping coats and blankets in her car to hand out to folks in need. BBT purchases

coats and blankets with proceeds and also hosts a coat and blanket drive at the event. Niki Warms the Cold distributes them, fulfilling Nicki’s wish.

Since 2016, 59 continuous glucose monitors and 41 camp scholarships have been awarded with BBT funds.

The CGM system allows remote monitoring of glucose levels and alerts a parent when a child’s levels become dangerous. Niki’s cousin, Lexie Finstad, also a Gap native, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and was a nine-year camper at a specialized diabetes camp that educates children on their illness and instills healthy habits in campers. A portion of the proceeds also are donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Gates open at 4. Tickets are available at the Horny Toad, 319 3rd Street in Cranfills Gap, or at baconbashtexas.com.

Bacon Bash is changing lives, one slice at a time.

Horny Toad •

Ba r

&

G r i l l

•

Stop by & say “Hi” to Al!

Stay & P lay TWO ONSITE CABINS AVAILABLE FOR RENT 74

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Wed & Thur 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 5-10 p.m. • Closed Mon & Tue Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m. • Sat 11 a.m.-12 p.m. • Sun 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

For Thursday night specials & event info, text TOAD to 77948

254.597.1100 • 319 N. Third in Cranfills Gap, TX HornyToadBar.com Sandi & Owen Carlson, Owners A Hamilton

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CRANFILLS GAP  TX Velkommen!

Everyone feels welcome and at home in the all-American hometown of CRANFILLS GAP.

Upcoming Events: Sept. 10 Sept. 11

CRANFILLS GAP, TEXAS - A small community right in the heart of Texas, Cranfills Gap is located at the north end of the Texas Hill Country.

Full of Norwegian heritage and a sense of community pride, “The Gap,” as it is called by locals, is a great place to live, worship, work and attend school.

A community breakfast is held on the third Saturday of each month at 8:30 a.m. at Saint Olaf’s Lutheran Church.

The Old Rock Church is a beautiful piece of Gap history. Built in 1886 of native stone, it originally had a dirt floor and planks laid on wooden kegs for pews. It served the early Norwegian settlers but is now used only for special services.

Last year, community members erected a memorial to servicemen and women in Wade Lee City Park. Citizens work with Wreaths Across America to place Christmas wreaths on every veteran’s grave in Gap cemeteries.

Come enjoy six man football, Septemberfest, Bacon Bash, the annual Lutefisk Dinner, the challenging Tour de Norway or an evening at The Horny Toad. “The Gap” has something to offer everyone!

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Oct. 16

Nov. 27 Dec. 4 February March 5 April May

July 4

Homecoming Septemberfest & CGHS All Class Reunion Bacon Bash – Cook Off and Charity Benefit Gap Fall Fest Christmas Lighting in the Park Lutefisk Dinner Valentines Dinner Cow Haulers Convention Texas Independence Week Bosque County Area Wide Garage Sale Gap Youth Support Dinner and Auction Niki De Mayo Charity Fundraiser Bosque County Tour De Norway Bicycle Rally July 4th Family Fun Day, Dinner and Auction

For event information, visit

gapchamber.org

Check us out @gapchamber

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Be a part of our family • Luxurious Senior Living • Excellence in PostHospital Rehabilitation • The Premier Destination for Long-Term Skilled Nursing

For post-hospital rehabilitation or long-term care, the staff at Hillside Medical Lodge in Gatesville honors those who have spent a lifetime paving the way for the current generation by caring for your family in the same manner we would care for our own. Our Rapid-Recovery Program is individually designed using an interdisciplinary approach and the latest treatments to help each guest return home with the greatest independence as quickly as possible.

Residents at Hillside enjoy holiday festivals, Sunday sermons, relaxing under a shady green pergola, fun daily activities designed to keep them engaged and active and more. Many of our skilled nurses have been caring for residents at Hillside Medical Lodge for over a decade. Be a part of our family at Hillside Medical Lodge; we are ready to treat your family like our own.

300 S. Hwy 36 • Gatesville, TX 76528 • 254-865-7575 www.HillsideML.com

GATESVILLE  TX Spur Capital of Texas

Experience the drive-in, prowl the market, enjoy country music, explore the museum - there’s lots to do in GATESVILLE!

UPCOMING EVENTS: GATESVILLE, TEXAS - Step back in time and enjoy a slower pace of life in Gatesville!

One of the most recognizable and photographed landmarks in town is the Coryell County Courthouse on the historic square. It was built with limestone quarried from just west of town across the Leon River and dedicated in 1907.

Just a block off the square, the Coryell Museum and Historical Center at 718 Main is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and admission is free.

The museum houses the town’s claim to fame as the “Spur Capital of Texas” with the world’s largest collection of spurs (10,000 sets), including ones from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa.

The Last Drive-In Picture Show opened in 1950 and still offers firstrun movies 7 nights a week. With a weekend admission price of $10 per carload for a double feature, it is a great bargain and a fun experience for the whole family.

The Gatesville Country Music Hall of Fame in the City Auditorium at 110 N. 8th also offers a free show at 7 p.m. on the third Friday of each month featuring the house band and rotating guest performers.

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3rd Friday

Gatesville Country Hall of Fame Show

2nd Saturday

Market Days at the Depot

September 18 Spurfest at the Museum, Cruizin Cruzers Car Show Old Time Fiddle Contest October 30

Boozaar on the Square

November 6

Junk & Disorderly Market

November 20 Corks and Kegs December 11

Christmas Parade and Celebration

January

Coryell County Youth Fair

April 2

Go Texan Fundraiser featuring Jake Hooker

June 4

Shivaree Festival

July 4

Fireworks

July 28-30

Gatesville Rodeo

Find a full listing of dining and shopping options along with a calendar of events at

VisitGatesvilleTX.com

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Plantin

Gardening Tips from Hamiton County Master Gardener Colin Melton Creating an eco-friendly landscape will maximize enjoyment while preserving and protecting the environment. Utilizing native plants and natural resources will result in a healthy yard that is as easy to care for as it is beautiful. Use these tips for success.

Know your zone. Choose plants that grow well in your zone. We are in Zone 8 but Melton notes that you should take into consideration if you live on a windy hill or down in a valley.

Go native.

Native plants conserve water and are easier to maintain. Check out the list of Texas Superstars, which are chosen to perform well for Texas consumers.

Choose hardy trees. Avoid trees that are oak wilt and oak decline susceptible. Some of Melton's favorites are the Chinkapin Oak, Chinese Pistache and Cedar Elm. "It’s not a cedar," said Melton. "Call it Texas Elm, if you’d like."

Soil is key to success. Having your

soil tested before you start a vegetable garden is advised. Samples can be sent to Texas A&M Soil Lab in College Station. "Work your sub soil," said Melton. "I can’t say it enough compost!"

Think

about water. Wate conservation is important. Along with choosing native plants that use less water, Melton urges gardeners to collect rainwater. Native grasses, like buffalo grass, conserve water and are easier to maintain.

Keep it simple.

"The biggest mistake most people make is over planting," said Melton.

"Then they work themselves ragged trying to take care of it." Choose plants that are easy to maintain.

Do your homework. A little research can go a long way. "The Master Gardeners program through Texas A&M Agrilife Extension is a great opportunity," said Melton.

NEED GARDENING HELP? Check out aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu.

• Quality • Performance • Sustainability

Hamilton Public Library

he Hamilton Public Library recently underwent a $1.5 million expansion and renovation project.

Designed to be multifunctional, this library will not only hold the library’s entire collection of over 20,000 titles including 350 recently added new books for all ages, but also provide for many expanded opportunities and experiences, genealogy research, social functions and more.

The newly renovated library features a community room, genealogy library, audio-video recording studio and the latest in technology.

Outside, the library boasts more space for learning with a rainwater harvesting system and ecofriendly grasses, trees and flower beds.

“We are so pleased with the level

Hamilton County master Gardeners is a non-profit educational and charitable association working with the Texas A & M AgriLife Extension to improve gardening skills throughout the community.

Interested in becoming a Master Gardener?

Class is forming now!

Call 254-386-3919 or email: colin.digthis@yahoo.com

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254-968-4755 80

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ing a Seed of support our community has shown,” said HPL Director Nancy Diaz.

“We would not be where we are without the generosity of our donors and the matching fund grant,” said Library Board President Mike Lovell.

“We are not just a book repository,” said Diaz. “We also want to provide programming for our community’s wants and needs.

You would have to drive to a big city library to find some of the services we will offer through this expansion.”

With the expansion’s features, the library looks forward to adding programs like author talks, training classes and webinars, even lock-ins.

“This is a huge vision for our

Residential & Commercial Farm & Ranch

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Hamilton Wellness Center ertified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Hamilton Wellness Center offers physical therapy and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation as well as a fitness workout area with 24-hour access and a fitness pool.

Dedicated to the community and its health, the wellness center is the area’s premier provider of integrated health and wellness services. Group classes are offered for all fitness levels, and if the live instructor classes don’t work with your schedule, the wellness center provides classes via Fitness on Demand! Fitness on Demand gives you access to countless classes any time of day.

Personal training is available for an additional fee, and trainers work with members to design a plan based on their fitness and wellness goals.

Hamilton Wellness Center is an approved facility for two free fitness programs for qualifying seniors, SilverSneakers and Silver & Fit! For more information, call 254-3861670.

Hometown Health Care

Located at 400 N. Brown, Hamilton Healthcare System stands at the forefront of rural Texas healthcare facilities.

The community-owned healthcare system provides a wide range of patient-focused care and treatment with a commitment to patient satisfaction. Members of Hamilton Healthcare System's medical staff are among Texas’ brightest young physicians and practitioners committed to meeting the healthcare needs of the community. The system includes:

Critical-Access Medical/Surgical Hospital 3D Digital Mammography Sleep Lab

Rural Health Clinics

Hamilton, Hico and Goldthwaite

Wellness Center

Fitness Center Physical Therapy Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Congestive Heart Failure Clinic Diabetes Education Wound Care Clinic

Solutions Behavioral Health Clinic

EMS Service

Orthopedic Clinic

Central Texas Eye Care

Group and Individual

Hamilton, Hico, Goldthwaite San Saba and Llano

Proudly serving Central Texans since 1991

Serving Hamilton County with compassion and care since 1939

Riley FuneRal Home FuneRals • CRemations advanCe FuneRal Planning

402 West Main in Hamilton • 254-386-3117

www.rileyfuneral.com

hts!

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St. John

First United Methodist Church hands out hot dogs to traveling college students last year.

Founda

LUTHERAN CHURCH AND PRESCHOOL

Join us

122 Cheyenne Mesa, Hamilton 254-386-3158 www.stjohnhamilton.org

Sundays at 10 a.m .

or LIVE on Faceb ook f aceb ook.com / stj ohnham iltontx

Join us for

Breakfast & Sunday School Sundays 9 am

Church Worship Sundays 10 am

Quilting

Tuesdays 9 am

Junior and Senior Youth Groups

A heart for Hamilton County and the World.

Hamilton Churches welcome you with open hearts

ABUNDANT LIFE ASSEMBLY OF GOD

370 N. FM 1702 • 325-998-2427

BARN CHURCH

Hoard St. • 254-386-5336

500 N Rice • 254-386-3404 7374 Hwy 36 E • 325-330-0499

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH

INDIAN GAP BAPTIST LITTLEVILLE BAPTIST

LIVING HOPE OUTREACH 702 W Snell • 254-784-0276

161 E State Hwy 22 • 254-386-3290

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

LIVING WATERS WORSHIP CENTER

724 W Coke • 254-386-3211

723 S Railroad • 254-386-1385

PARK HEIGHTS CHURCH OF CHRIST

122 Cheyenne Mesa • 254-386-3158

1300 E Boynton • 254-386-3953

ST. JOHN LUTHERAN CHURCH OUTREACH CHURCH OF CHRIST

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF HAMILTON COUNTY

302 N Rice • 254-386-3370

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH

ST. MARY'S ANGLICAN EPISCOPAL

1101 S Rice • 254-386-7631 110 CR 404 • 254-784-9166

South College Ave • 254-206-1753

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

220 S Bell • 254-386-8141

1446 FM 3340

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN

608 N Rice • 254-386-5668

FIRST UNITED METHODIST 215 W Main • 254-386-8155

ST. THOMAS CATHOLIC

707 N Nicholson Dr • 254-386-5513

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

GRACE PENTECOSTAL

Pottsville • 254-372-3942

809 S Manning • 254-386-5439

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ations of Faith

Coaches Sonny DeLaGarza and Ryan Marwitz take one for the team at St. John Lutheran VBS.

Hamilton Church Ministries

ore than 20 churches minister to the souls of Hamilton community. Hamilton churches offer bible studies for all ages and unique ministries.

Active youth programs strengthen the foundations of faith for families. Many churcheS have youth activities year round. Summers in Hamilton revolve around Vacation Bible Schools and church camps.

Whether you are visiting or here to stay, Hamilton churches welcome you with open hearts.  First Baptist Church's annual Summer Music Camp is a big hit.

Older youth volunteer at Vacation Bible School.

Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors.

Come worship with us!

First Baptist Church

220 South Bell Hamilton, Texas 76531 254-386-8141 hamilton1stbaptistchurch.org A Hamilton

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Dr. Drew Dabbs, Pastor

Matthew Stephens, Youth Minister Peter Elkins, Music & Worship Minister

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It's always a great day to be a

Hamilton Bu

By Jennifer Zschiesche, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction t’s a great day to be a Hamilton relationships and celebrating success Bulldog'' can be heard drives the faculty and students to echoing throughout the halls excellence. Our campuses strive to every morning at Hamilton instill core values such as integrity, Independent School District. Each pride, kindness, and responsibility to day, we are thankful for our students, use throughout their lives. families, faculty, staff, and the Hamilton High School’s mission is community support of our small to ensure our students are college town school. and career ready when they graduate.

Classified as a 2A district, Hamilton Hamilton High School offers AP, ISD is a Texas accredited school honors, and dual credit courses, as well district serving approximately 850 as five industry-based certifications, students in grade Pre-K through 12. which include multi-district Hamilton ISD is Hamilton’s second Cosmetology, Welding, Floral Design, largest employer with a staff of 141. Certified Nursing Assistant, and There are three campuses: Ann Aviation programs. Upon graduation, Whitney Elementary (grades pre-K students completing these tracks are through 5), Hamilton Junior High prepared to enter the workforce with School (grades 6-8), and Hamilton the required certification for their High School (grades 9-12).

Two desired vocations. campuses are housed in the same Hamilton High School also offers a building and the high school is just Research and Design class in which across the street allowing students of students build and launch rockets all ages to interact and become role at an official launch site off campus. models for our younger students as Hamilton High School is extremely they have Bulldog Buddies and also successful in our Agriculture and attend pep rallies for our football Family Career and Community team. We love the Bulldog spirit and Leaders of America programs touting these opportunities for our older many National Championships. students to have an impact on our Students are encouraged to join younger students as they grow up in multiple organizations on our our school system! campuses such as Future Farmers From pre-kindergarten through of America (FFA) and Family Career high school, Hamilton ISD educates and Community Leaders of America tomorrow’s leaders in classrooms (FCCLA). that are creative, innovative, and Students have opportunities technologically advanced, with our to compete in UIL Academic 1:World Chromebook/IPAD Initiative competitions, One Act Play, and at all three campuses.

Building student council.

Nancy Anglin Yates Owner/Escrow Officer 112 N. Bell/P.O. Box 248 254-386-5450 fax 254-386-8548 yateshamilton@gmail.com 86

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Our community can catch the spirit of a Hamilton at Bulldog athletic events football, cheerleading, band, volleyball, cross country, basketball, powerlifting, baseball, softball, track and field, golf - and see the youth of our community excel or, bundle up, and head to the Jayson Harris Pavilion in January to watch our students show the fruits of their labor with the projects and animals at the Hamilton County Youth Fair. Our students in Hamilton can enjoy many school activities living in our small town as they are often seen in multiple extracurricular activities throughout the year.

We may be a small school district, but our students are served well at Hamilton ISD. We are constantly striving to reach our district motto of “Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow #LT2”. Again, it’s always a great day to be a Hamilton Bulldog! 

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Let’s Play

Robin’s Nest Childcare and Preschool Center

queals of laughter and excitement echo from the playground at the Robin’s Nest Childcare and Preschool Center, a certified childcare center adjacent to Hamilton Independent School District.

Robin Donahoo, “Miss Robin” to her young wards, has raised a generation of Hamilton children, including her own two sons, first in her home and now in the state-of-the-art facility at 222 W. Hill.

After a quarter century of caring for children, she dreamed of moving her daycare from her home. She started the process in 2017 and with much encouragement from the community and assistance from local organizations, she got started.

After many delays, she finished her building using local workers just in time for COVID-19, which almost halted her dream before it started.

So, she adapted.

As a result, the Robin’s Nest is COVID-safe with a secure check-in foyer, temperature checks and staff

using personal protective equipment during check-in and checkout.

The Robin’s Nest can care for up to 70 children and was built to specs of 30 feet per child. Nutritious meals and snacks are served in the large dining area in the center of the facility.

Miss Robin and her staff use playbased, child-led learning. The two-, three- and four-year-old classrooms are preschool.

“We offer invitations to play, and that helps encourage development physically and mentally in a development continuum,” she said.

From Dr. Seuss week to playing with worms to occasional visits from Hamilton High School Bulldog mascot Sparky, Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the children are always busy and learning.

They especially love the playground, where they excavate and explore nature.

“It gets dirty and messy,” said Miss Robin, “but we sure have a lot of fun.” 

Brian Haile 254.485.1827 KWRanchPro.com 88

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Hamilton Organizations

AMERICAN LEGION CUNNINGHAM POST #222 Glenn Jones 254-784-9141 Meets on 2nd Monday at 6 p.m. in the American Legion building on Hwy 281 North.

HAMILTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 254-386-3216 Meets 2nd Tuesday at 12 (noon) in the chamber office 103 1\2 N. Rice St.

HAMILTON COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Coni Guinn 254-688-0165 Meets 2nd Thursday of every other month at 6 p.m. in the museum on West Henry St.

BAND BOOSTERS Melissa Medina 254-386-8166 Meets on 2nd Monday at 6 p.m. in the band hall.

HAMILTON CIVIC THEATRE Meets last Monday of the month at 6 p.m. in the theater on West Ross St.

BOY SCOUTS & CUB SCOUTS Damon & Harmony Thompson 254-784-2713 Meets 2nd Monday at 6 p.m. in the First United Methodist Youth building.

HAMILTON COUNTY CEMETERY ASSOCIATION Mike Lovell 254-386-4461 Meets 3rd Monday at 6 p.m. in the museum on W.est Henry St.

HAMILTON COUNTY RETIRED SCHOOL PERSONNEL 254-784-3234 Meets Sept-Oct-Nov-Feb-MarchApril at 1:30 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church 215 W. Main

COLONIAL STUDY CLUB Chris English 254-386-8210 Meets 1st Thursday at 12 (noon) in the Lee Conference Center .

FRIENDS OF HAMILTON ISD Gayle Edwards friendsofhamiltonisd@gmail.com Meets 1st Monday at 6 p.m. at Hamilton High School Library.

FRIENDS OF THE HAMILTON PUBLIC LIBRARY Marge Jordan 254-386-3529 Meets 4th Thursday at 12 (noon) in the library 201 N. Pecan St. HAMILTON ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Casey Jones 254-386-8167 Meets 2nd Monday at 6:30 p.m. in the high school library.

HAMILTON COUNTY CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES BOARD Renee French Meets 2nd Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the Lee Conference Center 110 E. Main St. HAMILTON COUNTY FARM BUREAU Brad Martin 254-386-8131 Meets 4th Wednesday at 7 a.m. in the Farm Bureau 804 S. Rice St. HAMILTON COUNTY HISTORICAL COMMISSION Jim Eidson 972-533-8700 Meets 2nd Wednesday.

HAMILTON COUNTY YOUTH ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION Nathan Radabaugh 512-525-5834 Meets 3rd Wednesday.

HAMILTON LIONS CLUB Doug Baker 254-386-8124 Meets every Wednesday at noon in the Lions building 922 E. Main St. HAMILTON/POTTSVILLE EXTENSION EDUCATION CLUB Jeannie Harrison 254-372-4572 Mary Lambert 254-386-8396 Meets 3rd Monday at 1:30 p.m.

Odd months meet at Trinity Lutheran Pottsville Even month meet at AgriLife Office UNITED CARE Tica McDaniel 830-613-8280 Meets 1st Monday at 10 a.m. at United Care on West Ross St.

Hamilton Lions Club

By Lion Dr. Drew Dabbs

e Serve!” That’s the motto of Lions Club International, and it’s also the motto of the Lions Club chapter here in

Hamilton.

We are a diverse group of men and women from all walks of life committed to serving our community, state, nation and world.

On a local level, we participate in park clean-ups, food drives and other service projects, and we provide college scholarships each year for two graduating seniors.

A particular passion of ours is helping people with vision impairments— especially young people—obtain the ocular healthcare they need (eye exams, glasses, etc.).

If you’ve noticed the extra flags flying in people’s yards around town on patriotic holidays, then you’ve seen the work of the Hamilton Lions Club. For $50 per year, we’ll come place a flag in your yard on eight different holidays throughout the year. After the holiday, we’ll remove it and store it safely, until the next holiday.

Our local chapter also offers financial support for the Texas Lions Camp in

If water runs through it...we do it!

NATHAN RADABAUGH

M 43166

512-525-5834 Commercial & Residential Plumbing

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We Serve! which provides a meaningful summer camp experience for children with Diabetes, Down Syndrome and other disabilities, at no cost to the campers. For more information, visit www.lionscamp.com.

As a chapter of the Lions Club International Foundation, we are connected with a global network of over 48,000 volunteers worldwide, all working together to make a positive impact on the

world.

If you’re interested in becoming a member of the Lions Club, or if you simply want to check it out and see who we are and what we’re about, then we invite you to show up at noon on any Wednesday at the Lions Club Building located on East Main Street, across from Storm’s. Lunch will be on us, and we look forward to seeing you! 

Hamilton Lions Club hosts a hamburger luncheon every May to raise funds for scholarships.

Looking for a space for your next gathering?

The Lions Club Building on Main Street is available for rent by calling 254-386-2483.

Hamilton R Raile R t RepaiR & WELDING Complete line of trailer parts and accessories LED lighting • Wiring • Brakes • Suspension Steel/Tubing • Custom Fabrication

200 E. Gentry St. @ Bell St. in Hamilton • 254-386-0089 A Hamilton

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HAMILTON READY MIX, LLC 1948 N. U.S. HWY. 281, HAMILTON, TEXAS

For all of your concrete needs

(254) 386-4444 (254) 485-3731 (254) 386-2017 Se Habla Español

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

griculture is big business in Hamilton County to the tune of more than $62 million. According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, a quarter of the population of Hamilton County are agriculture producers and there are 1,163 farms on 483,812 acres.

Hay tops the list of crops with more than 30,000 acres of hay reported in 2017. Pecans come in second as a top crop for Hamilton County, which ranks 13 in the state for pecan production. Other top crops include oats, wheat and sorghum.

Cattle is king in Hamilton County with more than 66,000 head reported on the most recent census. Sheep and goats are also raised extensively.

Country Livin’

PIT STOP AUTOMOTIVE & TIRE REPAIR

254-386-2325

24-HOUR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE (40-mile radius) AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY (on-call technician) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

611 HIGHWAY 281 NORTH • HAMILTON

FARM STUFF

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LAWN MOWER REPAIR 557 N US HWY 281 - HAMILTON

254-784-3624

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Living the Legacy

ard work pays off, says Darrell Melde, who sows the land of his father and grandfather on his family’s place near Aleman.

He learned his work ethic from his father, who learned it from his.

Sons Dylan and Dawson know what to do and respect the land and their dependence on it for a living. They have learned that shortcuts will reap

lower quality and soil the reputation of their family business.

The Meldes raise oats, wheat, maize, hay and corn and sell it to a grain company to be distributed to customers across the nation.

Dylan and Dawson have been working with their dad since they were old enough to see over the steering wheel. They know that if they’re true to their word and work

hard, they will carry on the legacy of their forefathers and have something to pass to their children with pride.

“It’s very hard work,” Darrell said, “but I knew my dad would need my help, and I didn’t see myself doing anything else.

“Training starts very young,” Darrell said. “Teaching my sons to farm and the satisfaction of watching them learn and follow through is great.” 

Ashmore Plumbing COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

New Construction

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Remodels Sewer & Water Lines Gas Lines & Repairs Electric Sewer Service Tankless & Standard Water Heater Installation

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We Sell TRAILERS!

Hunting AND Fishing LICENSES

SOLD HERE

Hamilton, TX

FULL SERVICE LUMBER YARD & HOME CENTER

Paint

Lumber

Hardware

Tools

Insulation

Roofing

Plumbing

Electrical

Furniture

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YOUR HUNTING & FISHING HEADQUARTERS

Your ONE STOP SHOP for building supplies!

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www.higginbothams.com

Monday - Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm Saturday 8:00am to 4:00pm

Hamilton’s Industry Hamilton is centralized 100 miles north of Austin, South of Dallas/Fort Worth, and East of Abilene making it an ideal location for industry. In addition to Pederson’s Natural Farms, here are other industries that call Hamilton home.

C&F Steel Company

An AISC Quality Certified Plant, C&F Steel currently produces 400-500 tons of structural steel per month in our 70,000 square foot manufacturing facility. You can find their steel in new schools, churches and municipal buildings across Texas including the new Tarleton State University stadium.

candfsteel.com

Pederson’s Natural Farms One of the largest and most innovative all-natural pork suppliers in the nation, Pederson’s Natural Farms produces five million pounds of bacon each year in Hamilton. Not just any bacon, Pederson’s five-ingredient bacon is defined as much by what isn’t in it as what is.

It’s a no added sugar, no hormones, no added nitrates or nitrites, no antibiotic, vegetarian fed, humanely raised, revolutionize-the-market bacon. Pederson’s also produces no sugar added hams, sausages, dogs, and deli meat.All their products are humanely raised, made without the use of artificial ingredients or artificial preservatives, nitrate and nitrite free, MSG free, gluten free, and soy free. Additionally, Pederson’s offers products that are Non GMO Project Verified, organic, Whole30 Approved, and paleo and keto friendly.

pedersonsfarms.com

Spec Rents

Based in Hamilton, Spec Rents is the only Hydro Mobile dealer in Texas. They rent and sell scaffolding systems, masonry equipment, wall bracing system and safety equipment like harnesses and lanyards all over the state of Texas. A family company, the Spec Rents team of 15 includes office personnel, drivers, installer/trainers, installer assistants, yard assistants and mechanics.

specrents.com

Making Memories Riley-Gardner Memorial

amilies serving families sums up business at Riley Gardner Memorial. Always has. It’s carved in stone. Literally.

Now operated by the third and fourth generations of the Bob Riley family, the company has grown from a hometown business with pencil-drawn, handcut stones to a national firm offering intricate artwork laser-etched on exotic granites and marble mined from quarries worldwide.

Bob Riley and son-in-law Kenneth Gardner purchased the business in 1957, treating families like they hoped to be treated at the worst times in their lives.

Before long, Kenneth had a dream of supplying monuments to funeral homes so families could purchase them during the funeral planning process.

“It had never been done before,” said Kenneth’s son, Bob Gardner, who now operates the business with his son Riley and son-in-law Jon Lengefeld. “It was unheard of and not popular. Many companies thought it was a horrible idea.”

But Kenneth, persistent and convinced his idea would work, didn’t give up. Today the company has 16 production facilities including Hamilton serving 150 funeral homes across Texas and Oklahoma. The local facility produces 120 square feet of stone each day.

When Riley and Jon came on board, the company was ushered into the new millennium, adding engineers, artists,

graphic designers and craftsmen to create customized art memorialized in stone.

Riley also began brokering and trading directly with quarries to secure higher quality granite and marble at the best prices.

The most common granite, Georgia grey, still comes in on a truck every week from Georgia. Other varieties growing in popularity come from India, China, Norway and Italy.

“It takes six to eight months for a container to come from overseas,” Riley said. “We fill a container every two to three weeks.”

It’s not just the Riley Gardner ownership that has spanned generations of families.

Alice Thompson Hahn’s grandfather was a stonecutter and her brothers Mike and Mark and daughter Trey also work for the business. Alice has been an autoCAD designer for more than 30 years, Mike is head installer, Mark is shop foreman, and Trey is a graphic designer. They are among the more than 30 employees at the Hamilton facility. RGM today has five installation crews that cover 134 counties in Texas and Oklahoma plus more than 50 engineers, artists, craftsmen and sales personnel.

Riley Gardner Memorial also has produced public memorials across the state including a K-9 Memorial in Round Rock, Fort Hood Memorial and Vietnam Veteran Memorial in Killeen, preserving in stone events that will be remembered forever. 

C&F Steel Company, Inc. 91 West Hwy 36, Hamilton

254-386-8847

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Hamilton County Elected Officials COUNTY JUDGE

COUNTY CLERK

W. Mark Tynes

Cynthia K. Puff

hamiltoncountytx.org

hamiltoncountytx.org

102 N. Rice, Ste. 124 254-386-1290 countyjudge@

COMMISSIONER PCT 1

Johnny Wagner 102 N. Rice 254-386-8542 jwagner@

hamiltoncountytx.org

DISTRICT JUDGE

Shaun Carpenter

102 N. Rice, Ste. 107 254-386-1203 countyclerk@

110 South Main Meridian, TX 76665

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE

DISTRICT ATTORNEY

James Lively

Adam Sibley

102 N. Rice, Ste. 115 254-386-1221 jp1@

PO Box 368 Meridian, TX 76665 254-435-2994

hamiltoncountytx.org

COMMISSIONER PCT 2

Keith Allen Curry

DISTRICT CLERK

COUNTY ATTORNEY

Sandy Layhew

254-386-3217 mark@mcmullen henkeslaw.com

hamiltoncountytx.org

102 N. Rice 254-386-4942 pct2@

Mark Henkes

COMMISSIONER PCT 3

COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR COLLECTOR

hamiltoncountytx.org

Lloyd Huggins 102 Railroad Hico, TX 76457 254-796-4133 lhuggins@

hamiltoncountytx.org

COMMISSIONER PCT 1

Terry Short

102 N. Rice, Ste. 110 254-386-1230 taxassessor@ hamiltoncountytx.org

HD59 STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Shelby Slawson

910 Old Hico Rd; Stephenville, TX 76401 254-592-4909 shelby@SlawsonForTexas.com SD24 STATE SENATOR

COUNTY SHERIFF

Dickie Clary

Justin Caraway

@co.hamilton.tx.us

hamiltoncountytx.org

102 N. Rice 254-372-3339 dickie.clary

102 N. Rice, Ste. 222 254-386-1240 districtclerk@

1108 S. Rice 254-386-8128 hamiltonsheriff@

Dawn Buckingham

PO Box 342524; Lakeway, TX 78734 512-766-7324 dawn@dawnbuckingham.com

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YOUR PATHWAY CUSTOMER SERVICE AND TECHNICIAN TEAMS

Thank you to our community supporters!

INTERNET - PHONE

254-785-3278 www.usapathway.com

Thanks to Our Advertisers!

ASHMORE PLUMBING Page 94 BANCORP SOUTH Page 87 BAYER MOTOR COMPANY Page 47 BOTANICAL GARDENS & NATIVE AMERICAN INTERPRETIVE CENTER Page 69 BUENA VISTA WILDLIFE SAFARI Page 13 BURKS REAL ESTATE Page 66, 78 BURLAP ROSE FLORIST Page 11 C&F STEEL COMPANY Page 96 CARTER WINTERS ATTORNEY AT LAW Page 15 CENTRAL PERK Page 7 CHINA WOK Page 35 CHRISTIAN REALTY Page 81, 78 CIRCLE T RESORT Page 104 CITY OF HAMILTON Page 41 CITY OF GOLDTHWAITE Page 50 CLEPPER REMODELING Page 87 CLIFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Page 72 COALSON EXCAVATION Page 8 COMANCHE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Page 60 COMANCHE COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER Page 20 DANIELS AND COMPANY Page 11, 80

DAVIDSON-CRAIG REAL ESTATE Page 35, 78 DIAMOND H CONSTRUCTION Page 79 DIG THIS Page 48 DONA’S BAIL BONDS Page 17 DONA’S HAIR & FASHION SALON Page 17 DUBLIN EDC Page 58A DUTCHMAN’S HIDDEN VALLEY Page 31 EAGLE AUTO PARTS Page 15 EDWARD JONES Page 66 EL JARDIN Page 9 ENVISION REALTY GROUP Page 64 EVANT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Page 63 EXTRACO BANKS Page 44 FARM STUFF Page 93 FARMERS MARKET Page 27 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH Page 84 FIRST NATIONAL BANK Page 62 FRIENDS OF HAMILTON ISD Page 89 GIOVANNI’S Page 30 GOODALL-WITCHER HEALTHCARE Page 39 HAILE REALTY GROUP Page 79, 88

HAMILTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Page 50 HAMILTON CIVIC THEATRE Page 102 HAMILTON COUNTY ABSTRACT CO Page 79 HAMILTON COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Page 46 HAMILTON EDC Page 2 HAMILTON FLORAL & GIFTS Page 49 HAMILTON HEALTHCARE SYSTEM Page 3 and 103 HAMILTON MASTER GARDENERS Page 80 HAMILTON READY MIX Page 92 HAMILTON TRAIILER REPAIR & WELDING Page 91 HAYDEN OUTDOORS Page 43, 79 HICO TEXAS Page 54 HIGGINBOTHAM BROTHERS Page 95 HILLSIDE MEDICAL LODGE Page 75 HOFFPAUIR OUTDOOR SUPERSTORE Page 18 HORNY TOAD Page 74 INGRAM CONCRETE Page 80 I O RANCH PROCESSING Page 66 JOHNSON JEWELERS Page 10 JORDAN PHARMACY Page 45

Join us for Visit

KCLW Page 81 KELSEY STREET EATS Page 38 LAWSON IMPLEMENT Page 6 LAWSON WELL SERVICE Page 63 LEE HEALTHCARE Page 82 LUCKY VINES VINEYARD & WINES Page 27 MAUNEY TRUCKING & EXCAVATION Page 97 MC BANK Page 5 MCGREGOR REAL ESTATE Page 15, 78 MELANIE J FINANCIAL Page 83 MICOBE, INC. Page 22 MOORE’S SERVICE CENTER Page 67 NITA & GLEN’S BBQ Page 23 NO TANGLES SALON Page 38 ONE WAY COFFEE & PIZZA Page 21 PATHWAY Page 99 PECAN CREEK OUTFITTERS Page 14 PIT STOP Page 93 RADABAUGH PLUMBING Page 90 RANGLERS Page 7 RED WING DOVE WINERY Page 40 REMAX LONE STAR Page 63, 78 RFH SERVICES Page 39

Hamilton 2022

RILEY FUNERAL HOME Page 82 SAN SABA EDC Page 10 SIX SPOKES SIGNS Page 88 SPARKLE Page 38 ST JOHN LUTHERAN CHURCH Page 84 ST JOHN LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL Page 79 STEPHENVILLE TOURISM & VISITORS BUREAU Page 56 STORMS BURGERS Page 24 TACO LOCO Page 16 TEXAS FARM BUREAU Page 61 THE GRAIN DRAFTHOUSE & EATERY Page 19 THE PARTIN AGENCY Page 35 THE PARTS STORE Page 93 THE WHITESTONE Page 51 VISIT HICO Page 52 WENZEL LONE STAR MEATS Page 17 WESTERN INN Page 6 WILL R HALE LLC Page 87 YATES LAW Page 98 YATES TITLE Page 86

Photo by Michael Wallis Photography

Call Kym at Hamilton Herald-News 254-386-3145 or kym@ hhnpaper.com.

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BUFFALO DUTCHMAN’S HIDDEN VALLEY 3408 N US Highway 281

COWBOY RANGLERS TRAVEL CENTER 502 W Main

PICKUP BED THE GRAIN DRAFTHOUSE 110 S Bell

ENTRANCE CIRCLE T ARENA & RESORT 5 miles west on Hwy 36

BRIDGE HAMILTON COUNTY MUSEUM 115 W Henry

BILLY THE KID GRAVESITE OAK WOOD CEMETERY Hwy 281 North

MURAL EXTRACO BANK 1208 E Main

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Hamilton Civic Theatre

108 Ross Street Theater in Hamilton • Purchase tickets at www.hamilton-theater.org 102

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HAMILTON HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Come Explore Hamilton, Texas At Hamilton Healthcare System our care runs deep for you and your family.

While visiting our hospital, outpatient services and our caring providers, take time to experience Hamilton.

Great places to eat and stay, while hunting and fishing, and enjoying our ranch and wildlife. Sip and shop as you explore historic architecture and more. It’s small town charm in the big Texas Hill Country. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Hamilton Healthcare System 400 North Brown • Hamilton, TX

Family Practice Clinic of Mills County 1501 W Front St • Goldthwaite, TX

Family Practice Rural Health Clinic 400 North Brown • Hamilton, TX

Hico Clinic 104 Walnut St • Hico, TX

(254) 386-1600

(254) 386-1700

(325) 648-2850

(254) 796-4224

Hamilton Healthcare System • 400 North Brown Hamilton, TX • www.hamiltonhospital.org

Resort-Style Atmosphere

500 Stalls  175 RVs  2 Swimming Pools  Dance Floor

Texas’ Two Best Covered Arenas

Home to multiple world class events with BIG payouts!

Circle T Arena

Full Service Bar On-site catering

5 miles west of Hamilton on Hwy 36  254-386-3559  www.circletarena.net

Equine Events

Concerts  Parties

Crossfire Steakhouse



Inn at Circle T

Sophisticated Dining with Rustic Flair Premium, high quality steaks & seafood

Hometown Friendly Atmosphere

Rooms & Suites  Meeting Rooms  Complimentary Breakfast  Superior Quality Service