Discover 2024

Leap into luxury this year

Laurel Ridge

Surprise! You get to shop in one of Gonzales’ historic homes … amidst the sparkle of great jewelry (estate, custom, and some quirky new designs) alongside of the kind of Christmas you just can’t find anywhere …anymore…but here.

Surprise! This is no ordinary shop. The spacious beamed-ceilinged downstairs rooms overflow with American antique furniture. … desks, and cabinets and bookcases, dining tables and chairs of the 19th Century. The Polish blown-glass ornaments from Radko & Heartfully Yours don’t disappear (if we have any left) after Christmas, they are tucked discretely into the cabinets and corners of the shop.

Surprise the florals that fill the stately rooms aren’t real, but they look so real you can almost smell them. The soaps and crèmes and healing essential oils they offer one normally only finds in world-class spas. Artisan-made candles and pottery fill the shelves alongside antique cut glass and toasting flutes and wedding frames!

Surprise! After you shop in the elegance and excitement of the downstairs rooms, you can relax and get the best night sleep ever in the historic masterpieces that grace the Inn rooms on the second floor. At Laurel Ridge Inn, Antiques and Christmas you will find the perfect place to shop and the perfect overnight stay!

Surprise! You don’t have to spend the night in the gracious bedrooms or luxuriate in the upscale baths to shop, but … Laurel Ridge shopping sleepovers are perfect for girls get-a-ways, family gatherings, and romantic weekends. Their suite offers a private balcony, and all guests can enjoy a spacious secondfloor deck beneath the shade of the hundred-year-old pecan tree. The expansive granite front porch is the perfect place to people watch and marvel about what that street would have looked like in 1914 when the house was built.

Surprise! You get a tour of the magnificent house and hear the history of the famous Sheriff Frank Fly who single-handily held off a lynch mob attempting to take the man accused of killing the previous sheriff.

It is no Surprise that great shopping, fabulous overnight accommodations, and crepes for breakfast at the little coffee shop just down the street will make Laurel Ridge Inn, Antiques and Christmas you favorite to shop …and your favorite place to stay! N

Gonzales

It’s the place YOU WANT TO BE

Gonzales — deep in the heart of Texas. It’s the place you want to be.

Whether it’s to learn about our history and the birthplace of Texas freedom, our hospitality, our wonderful fun events, or maybe you want to open your own business here because of our area’s legendary work ethic, Gonzales is the place to be.

Located just minutes off I-10, Gonzales has a quaint small-town charm, yet is located close to Texas’ biggest cities and all the amenities of big city life. Gonzales is centrally located one hour south of the state capital of Austin, an hour east of San Antonio, and just under two hours west of Houston. We have the perfect location for you to “Come and Visit” or to “Come and Live” — deep in the heart of Texas.

Gonzales

PUBLISHER

Lew Cohn

STAFF WRITER

Vandy Van Epps

BOOKKEEPER

Sanya Simmons

EDITORIAL DESIGN

Marissa Ferreira

Experience southern hospitality

Belle Oaks Inn

Belle Oaks Inn is a charming bed and breakfast located in Gonzales, Texas.

All stays include a gourmet breakfast buffet, complimentary Wi-Fi, ROKU streaming TV, in room coffee and refrigerators. Enjoy the peacefulness of our manicured gardens. Relax on the sweeping verandas and porches. Take a dip in our pool. When you stay with us, you will feel as if you’ve stepped back in time to the days of cattle barons and Southern Belles, but with all of today’s best amenities.

This Louisiana Plantation-Style mansion has been lovingly restored and pays homage to the Southern charm, hospitality, and grace of a bygone era. The architecture and decor evoke a sense of elegance and nostalgia.

The extensive grounds feature manicured lawns and gardens, creating a serene environment. Massive live oak and pecan trees provide shade and add to the picturesque setting.

Guests can take a refreshing dip in the sparkling swimming pool while enjoying views of the surrounding greenery. A tranquil reflecting pond adds to the overall ambiance.

The comfortable guest rooms are tastefully decorated with a mix of fine antiques and furnishings. Attention has been given to every detail, ensuring a cozy, and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Guests can start their day with a delicious buffet breakfast. These chef prepared meals offer a culinary experience for a wide variety of tastes. You can find breakfast classics or gourmet options as well as hand-made pastries all specifically crafted with individual guests in mind.

Innkeepers at Belle Oaks Inn are known for their friendly and attentive service, often going above and beyond to ensure that guests have a pleasant and memorable stay. This personalized approach adds to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Belle Oaks Inn has received rave reviews, with travelers praising its excellent service, cleanliness, and peaceful surroundings. Guests can explore antique shops and historic sites as well as popular restaurants all within walking distance.

Belle Oaks Inn also provides a distinguished venue for your most memorable celebrations. Whether a small milestone or a lavish wedding, the Inn grounds provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable moment in time.

Imagine a stately mansion steeped in history. The grand staircase beckons, and ornate wallpaper whispers tales of bygone eras. The lush gardens bathed in soft sunlight featuring fountains, statues and centuries-old oaks creating a timeless setting for love to bloom.

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Belle Oaks Inn promises a memorable stay and the finest in Southern charm, elegance, and hospitality in the heart of Texas. N

Texas’ Oldest Continuously Operated Weekly

Serving Gonzales County since 1853

For 171 years, the Gonzales Inquirer has been a vital part of life in our county. Whether it has been our coverage of local politics, news, sports, births or obituaries, we have been the chronicler of life and history in this wonderful community for 171 continuous years, making us the one of the oldest continuously operated weekly newspapers in Texas. We are proud of our history, just like we are proud of the glorious history of Gonzales in helping shape the formation of the great state of Texas. From the first shot fired to start the Texas Revolution to the Immortal 32, we are honored to be a part of this historic town. As we enter into our 172nd year of continuous operation, we have rededicated ourselves to providing the best and most comprehensive news, sports and feature coverage ever provided to our community. In the past year, the Inquirer has been awarded the Sweepstakes Award as the best newspaper in our classification from both the Texas Press Association and the Texas Gulf Coast Press Association. Your hometown newspaper also won first place awards for public notice, advertising, editorial, feature photography, general excellence, page design, sports coverage and sports photography. Whether it’s entertainment, community events, high school sports, or local news coverage, the Gonzales Inquirer is your indispensable source of news, information and business advertising for Gonzales County. See for yourself by subscribing, or follow us online at www.gonzalesinquirer.com or like us on Facebook to stay abreast of everything that is happening in our charming community. To subscribe to either our print or online digital version of the Gonzales Inquirer, call us at 830-672-2861 or go online at www.gonzalesinquirer.com to sign up. If you want to advertise or place a classified, call 830-672-2861 and we will bend over backwards to take care of your business needs. We are proud to be the community newspaper of Gonzales County. Come and take hold of the future with us.

Lew Cohn, Publisher

Commissioner Kevin LeFleur, as as former commissioners Bud Wuest, JimKelsoandDavidKuntschikworked side-by-side with hammer and tocompletethejail.Overtheyears,Birdhastackled bigjobs,likejailsandredistricting.

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Exploring History

“Come and Take It”

The Come and Take It Celebration commemorates the firing of the first shot of the Texas revolution on Oct. 2, 1835, which took place near Gonzales. Come and help us celebrate history with the firing of the first shot!

The town of Gonzales was established by Empresario Green DeWitt in 1825, two and one-half miles east of the confluence of the San Marcos and Guadalupe Rivers. It was the westernmost Anglo settlement until the close of the Texas Revolution and was named in honor of Don Rafael Gonzales, provisional governor of Coahuila, Mexico and Texas. The town was laid out in the shape of a cross, with seven squares.

During the colonial period of 1825 to 1835, there were many problems with Comanche and Tonkawa Indians, but Gonzales flourished. It was the thriving capital of the DeWitt colony by 1833. In 1831 the Mexican government loaned the citizens of Gonzales a six-pound cannon for protection against the Indians.

Under the leadership of Gen. Santa Anna, the government of Mexico was transformed into a military dictatorship, ignoring the Constitution of 1824, which had cost many lives and had secured liberties not previously enjoyed by the people. The state of Coahuila did not cooperate with Santa Anna’s plans, and the state of Zacatecas rebelled, but was brutally crushed by the military. One of Santa Anna’s “reforms” was to reduce the number of the militia to one soldier for every 500 inhabitants.

This arbitrary decree was a sufficient justification of Texas for her subsequent acts. Everyone who knows the Texans, or who has heard of them, would naturally conclude that they never would submit to be disarmed.

Along the coast Mexican garrisons stepped up their campaign to stop smuggling and collect customs duties. At Galveston they seized the Texas schooner Martha, loaded with supplies for the colonists. A message taken from a careless Mexican courier hinted that even more troops were on the way. Angrily the settlers burned some lumber ordered by newcomer Captain Tenorio at Anahuac.

William B. Travis had a better idea. Late in June he raised a company of 25 men and marched on Tenorio’s headquarters. He dramatically gave the Mexicans 15 minutes to surrender or be put to the sword. Tenorio quickly capitulated.

Santa Anna decided that this was the time to finish off his enemies. During August he poured more troops into Texas and told his brother-in-law, General Martin Perfecto de Cos, to take personal command. Cos ordered the arrest of Travis and several other Texas troublemakers.

The Mexican leaders completely misinterpreted the situation. The Texans’ real goal was to build a secure future without outside interference. They rebuked Travis because he seemed to be inviting a fight. Now they saw an infinitely greater threat: martial law, military occupation, the arrest of good friends.

Committees of safety sprang up in every town. The highly influential Telegraph and Texas Register hammered away for liberty and freedom. Then on Sept. 1 came an electrifying development — Stephen F. Austin suddenly reappeared from Mexican imprisonment.

Next week 1,000 people jammed the banquet given in his honor in Brazoria. The room fell silent as the trusted leader rose to speak. He had always preached moderation; after a year in Mexican jails, how did he feel?

He left little doubt. Santa Anna was destroying the people’s rights.

Word had just come of a serious problem at Gonzales. The colonists there were shining up a small cannon given them years ago to ward off Native American raids.

In September of 1835, as political unrest grew, Mexican officials at San Antonio de Bexar demanded the cannon be returned. A corporal with five soldiers and an oxcart were first sent by Col. Ugartechea, Bexar military commander, to Gonzales. The corporal carried a request that the small reinforced cannon, a bronze six-pounder, be returned to the Mexican Army. Andrew Ponton refused to relinquish it, stalling for

time, and the little cannon was buried in George W. Davis’ peach orchard, near the Guadalupe River.

Soon, the Texans shed all pretense of ever surrendering the cannon. Joseph D. Clements delivered a message to the Mexican army: “I cannot, nor do I desire to deliver up the cannon...and only through force will we yield.”

Lieutenant Castaneda and 150 mounted soldiers were sent to “take” the cannon. When the soldiers appeared on the west bank of the Guadalupe River, there were only 18 men in Gonzales, but these ‘Old Eighteen’ stood at the river in defiance, denied the Mexicans a crossing by hiding the ferry and sent out a call for volunteers to assist them.

Meanwhile, word was spreading that the Texans at Gonzales needed help. Volunteers responding to the call to arms rushed to the scene, and the little Texan force of 18 mushroomed to 150 by Sept. 30.

Also at this time, Sara Seely DeWitt and her daughter Evaline made a flag — back then referred to as the Old Cannon Flag — now called the Come and Take It flag. Depicted on a white cloth was a cannon with a lone star above it, and the words “come and take it” beneath the cannon.

On Oct. 1, 1835, Capt. Francisco Castaneda arrived from San Antonio with something less than 200 men. Ugartechea intended a show of force. Castaneda, blocked by the Guadalupe, demanded the ferry be restored, and the cannon handed over. There was some parleying, a demonstration by the Mexican cavalry near the town, and considerable yelling and taunting by the Texans, who dared the Mexicans to “come and take it!” echoing the words emblazoned on their newly created flag.

That night the Texans silently slipped across the Guadalupe and formed a defensive square. The Texans resumed their advance toward the Mexican camp in the fog shrouded dawn of Oct. 2. They were sure Castaneda planned to attack this day; they might as well hit him first. Quietly, they edged through the fog. With them was the cannon, dug up from the peach orchard, loaded with chains and scraps of iron.

The Texan militia blundered into the Mexican pickets, but in the dark and fog there could be no war. Everyone drew back and waited until daybreak.

The fog lifted suddenly, showing both forces drawn up on an open prairie. With the Come and Take It flag flying, the Gonzales cannon fired, and Capt. Castaneda immediately requested a parley, asking why he was being attacked.

Colonel Moore, commander of the Texans, explained that the Captain had demanded a cannon given to the Texans for ‘the defense of themselves and the constitution and the laws of the country,’ while he, Castaneda, ‘was acting under orders of the tyrant Santa Anna, who had broken and trampled underfoot all the state and federal constitutions of Mexico, except that of Texas,’ which last the Texans were prepared to defend.

Castaneda answered that ‘he was himself a republican, as were two-thirds of the Mexican nation, but he was a professional officer of the government,’ and while that government had indeed undergone certain surprising changes, it was the government, and the people of Texas were bound to submit to it.

Moore then suggested to the Captain, if he were a republican, he should join the revolution against tyranny by surrendering his command, and join them in the fight. Castaneda replied that he would obey his orders. At this, Moore returned to his own lines and ordered the Texans to open fire. There was a brief skirmish, and the Mexican force abandoned the field and rode back toward San Antonio.

The Texas Revolution had begun. Gonzales became known as “The Lexington of Texas”, where the first shot was fired, and where the first Texas Army of Volunteers gathered. A few months after the first shot, men and boys from the region would gather in Gonzales, sending the only reinforcements ever received at the Alamo.

Fast forward to current day Gonzales, the city will celebrate its 67th annual Come and Take It Celebration weekend. Initially started as a one-day event in 1956, Come and Take It swelled to a 10-day celebration in 1975 before it eventually took to its current three-day format the following year. The celebration honors the defiant Texian rebels that planted a “Come and Take It” flag in 1835.

Come and Take It will be Oct. 4-6, 2024. N

For 61 years, organizers have called it the “world’s toughest canoe race.” And this year, Texas Water Safari again will have one of its checkpoints in Gonzales.

The 61st Texas Water Safari shoves off from the Texas State University Meadows Center for Water and the Environment in San Marcos (the former Aquarena Springs) on Spring Lake on Saturday, June 8 at 9 a.m.

Some 161 teams from all over the globe signed up for last year’s race, and more are expected in 2024. The trek traverses the San Marcos River to the Guadalupe River (the confluence of the two is in Gonzales) to Guadalupe Bay and then San Antonio Bay with a finish line some 260 miles away in Seadrift. The teams have until 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, to cross the finish line at Bill Sanders Memorial Park — just 100 hours total.

The primary requirement is a boat powered only by human muscle. Racers must take all equipment needed with them, receiving only water, ice and food along the way.

“Its reputation has grown worldwide. It’s kind of on the bucket list for people to do, and so it’s a very unique race,” said TWS President Allen Spelce.

The Texas Water Safari is not just the race that takes place every year on the second weekend in June, but also includes a seminar in February, the Texas Water Marathon race in May and the Texas Jr. Water Safari in September.

Once again, heat and low waters will propose a challenge for paddlers this year, according to Spelce.

water safari Texas

returns to Gonzales to celebrate 61 years

“If you haven’t maintained your body that day, Saturday and Saturday night by getting proper, you know, hydration, electrolytes, food calories. Teams will typically start to crater or drop out Sunday morning, Sunday afternoon,” Spelce said.

Checkpoint 4 is at the Gonzales dam (mile 84.46). Paddlers have until 2 p.m. Sunday, June 9 to make this checkpoint. They will have a mandatory left portage at the dam to the checkpoint to be signed through by their crews. Boats will exit the river above the dam, take the portage and head down the path to put in below the dam.

“There is a cable strung 15-20 feet above the water 500 yards above the dam with a warning sign on it. Generating building on left side of the dam is usually well lit at night,” course notes state. “Must portage on Left hand side. Take out at ramp. Carry up to access road. Turn in to gate on right. Follow trail to the river. There is quite a bit of rip rap, so exercise caution.

“The next road crossing is 39 miles and this is the longest section on the race course. Make sure to have plenty of water. The dam is not conducive to team pulling over to sleep. Suggest going to Gravel Bar if planning to sleep.” N

How TWS started

The following information comes from the Texas Water Safari website:

Legend has it that in 1962, Frank Brown and Bill “Big Willie” George decided to take their V-bottom boat, without a motor, from San Marcos to Corpus Christi. They accomplished their mission in about thirty days and decided that other people should have the opportunity to experience the same journey. So, in 1963 they set up the first Texas Water Safari.

Today the Safari is a long, tough, non-stop marathon canoe-racing adventure, traversing 260 miles of challenging rivers and bay. Many participants enter the race with no intention of winning, but with the goal of joining the elite group of finishers and earning the coveted Texas Water Safari finisher’s patch.

Entrants must have all provisions, equipment, and items of repair in their possession at the start of the race.

Nothing may be purchased by, or delivered to, a team during the race except water and/or ice. Each team must have a team captain (18 years old, or older) whose responsibility it is to follow the team by vehicle (car, truck, or bicycle) to keep track of their location and condition and to give them water and/or ice.

During the Safari, teams may not receive any assistance of any kind, except verbal. Teams must be prepared to travel day and night, nonstop, to be competitive but teams who occasionally stop for sleep have been able to reach mandatory checkpoint cutoff times and cross the finish line by the 100-hour deadline.

For more information about the Texas Water Safari, check out texaswatersafari.org.

RAIL

GONZALES, TEXAS:

Amazing proximity to MAJOR MARKETS

In Gonzales, you will find brave, hard-working, tough, dedicated people. Where GRIT meets GROWTH! This mindset goes all the way back to the Texas Revolution with Gonzales being the first site of its battle October 2, 1835. This set the pace for an expansion across the United States. Fast forward to a community ripe for growth and a quality of life that resonates in the hearts of those who help build the future. Gonzales is open for business!

CITY DISTANCE

Victoria 60 Miles

San Antonio74 Miles

Austin 66 Miles

Corpus Christi132 Miles

Houston 136 Miles

Laredo 227 Miles

Dallas 257 Miles

Brownsville278 Miles

ROADS

Interstate 10, the fourth-longest Interstate in the US, runs from Santa Monica, California, to Jacksonville, Florida. I-10 covers the widest part of Texas, passing through El Paso, Clint, San Antonio, Houston, and Beaumont.

Four-lane highway, US 183, provides north-south access, connecting Gonzales to Austin to the north and the Texas coast to the south.

Short-line railroad Texas, Gonzales and Northern Railway (TXGN) connects Gonzales to the Union Pacific Railroad 12 miles from Gonzales in Harwood, Texas. The TXGN

AIR

Austin-Bergstrom and San Antonio International Airports are within a one-hour drive of Gonzales, while Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental and William P. Hobby Airports are within 150 miles of Gonzales. A local municipal airport also services the area.

PORTS

Port of Port Lavaca, Port of Corpus Christi, and Port of Houston are all within 85 miles of Gonzales.

Celebrating 120 years

of service

StoreyJewelers

Storey Jewelers was established in 1903 by E.A. Gomez and Chauncey Vaughn Bright as Gomez and Bright Jewelers and Music Store. It became Bright Jewelry House in 1905 and was operated by Chauncey Bright until his death in 1941.

By that time, his son-in-law, Beverly Glynn Storey was apprenticing under him, so Glynn and his wife, Marion “Feetie” Bright Storey, took over the business. It became B. G. Storey Jeweler in the 1950s and then Storey Jewelers Inc. in 1979. Glynn and Feetie were joined in the business in 1972 by their son Bill Storey. Bill quickly developed into an outstanding jeweler and watchmaker and took over the management responsibilities of the store as his parents began their transition into retirement.

In 1996 Bill sold the store to long time employee Paul Neuse and

his wife Dianne. Paul has been successful in guiding the business through the changes brought by technology in the 21st century and with the help of a dedicated staff and the most wonderful customers in the world, Storey Jewelers continues to thrive.

Today the store is still operated as Storey Jewelers, Inc. and in November 2015, Storey Jewelers left

its downtown location for a brand new store located in the Gonzales Marketplace Shopping Center. The facility is state-of-the-art, featuring a larger show room, a lounge area, greater visibility, a larger selection of fine jewelry, and almost unlimited parking, all to make shopping at Storey Jewelers a greater experience for long time and first-time customers. N

Crystal The

bringing to life

the Bard, Ballet, & the Battle for Texas Independence

Partnerships that endure for decades embrace new collaborations

The Crystal Theater Young Program is the only one of its kind in the world. The Young Program provides unusual enrichment “arts-ineducation” opportunities for young people of all backgrounds. Students, regardless of their economic situation, can be accepted into the year-round Shakespeare Ninja Project in association with the University of Texas Shakespeare Winedale Program, and the Young

Texian Project in association with the Alamo Living History Programs. Participants can receive scholarships into the long-standing Crystal summer workshops and now they can dance side by side with professional dancers from Los Angeles and New York. The Crystal’s newest collaboration with Come and Dance It brings extraordinary ballet to the venerable stage.

The Crystal’s newest collaboration with Come and Take It Dance brings Nutcracker to life each winter season and this spring will bring Swan Lake to the stage.

Now in their second decade of studying the historic facts surrounding Texas’ struggle for Independence the Young Texians have performed every year for audiences of the descendants of those brave Texans. They have performed for international audiences in the museum that honors the sacrifice of those heroes. Each year the perform in front of the Alamo, and the requests for the story they tell grows longer each year. The most recent addition to their work is the street theater scenes they perform during Come and Take It Festival.

The Crystal’s longest standing association is with the University of Texas Shakespeare at Winedale Program. The students study Shakespeare throughout the year and perform at the Festival of Play each spring at Winedale, and are often the curtain warmer for the

university productions each summer. Camp Shakespeare includes Crystal Theater students each summer in their residential camps.

After attending the two-week University of Texas camps, the campers come to the Crystal twice each summer to perform — usually one comedy and one tragedy.

“We’ve been hosting the Winedale Shakespeare campers for more than a decade now,” said Barbara Crozier, director of the Shakespeare Ninja program at the Crystal. “The first was in 2012 when we had two young men who were part of our original five Ninjas taking part in Camp Shakespeare that year.

“One of the most important pieces that we’ve seen performed at the Crystal was when Camp Shakespeare performed “Merchant of Venice” in 2019, the year before the pandemic shut things down. It is a timeless piece with its themes of racial and religious struggles and strife.”

Camp Shakespeare at Winedale only takes 14 campers per session at a cost of $1,700 per student. The youth stay at the Farmstead B&B in nearby Round Top and spend their day working on lines and characterizations, going through physical and vocal exercises, working on scenes, doing journal writing, relaxation exercises, making masks, taking part in problem solving, singing, dancing and even watching film sequences of Shakespeare’s plays. Everything is done as a community.

“All the elements of the program are intended to promote an understanding and appreciation of the works of Shakespeare, and of their extraordinarily complex and penetrating vision of human life,” said camp director Robin Grace Soto. “Campers develop, test, and transcend their sense of self through their exploration of Shakespearean characters. What we pursue here is the conviction that anyone can live life more fully through a personal encounter with Shakespeare’s art.”

The best candidates for Camp Shakespeare are kids who “who work well with others, who are inventive, elastic, eager to play, explore and take risks, and are ready to rumble when they arrive.” Applications are accepted from candidates anywhere, regardless of whether they attend public, private or home school and “experience with theater or with Shakespeare is not necessary. Commitment to working and playing with others is,” according to Soto.

The Crystal Theatre Young Program may be the only one of its kind in Texas as it is dedicated to providing “arts-ineducation opportunities for young people from all backgrounds” from the year-round Shakespeare Ninja Project to the Crystal Summer Youth Workshop as well as the Young Texians Troupe, which performs original Texas history ballads about the founding of Gonzales, the “Lexington of Texas.” N

Gonzales Healthcare Systems

celebrates 45 years at current location

Since 1978, Gonzales Healthcare Systems has been taking care of Gonzales County’s health needs from its facility on Sarah DeWitt Drive in Gonzales.

“Celebrating 45 years of unwavering commitment to community health and wellbeing, Gonzales Healthcare Systems stands as a beacon of excellence, compassion, and innovation,” CEO Brandon Anzaldua said. “Since its inception, the organization has been dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care, fostering a healthier community.

“As we mark this milestone, we reflect on the countless lives touched, milestones achieved, and the enduring impact Gonzales Healthcare Systems has had on the health landscape. Here’s to four and a half decades of healing, growth, and a future filled with continued dedication to the well-being of the patients we serve.”

In addition to Gonzales Memorial Hospital, the flagship of the organization, GHS also includes Sievers Medical Clinic-Gonzales, which just celebrated its 30th anniversary;

Sievers Medical Clinic-Waelder; Sievers Medical Clinic-Shiner; Surgical Specialty Clinic; Outpatient Infusion & Nursing Services; Rejuvenate Med Spa, THRIVE Healthplex; Occupational & Community Health Services; Memorial Hospital Home Health Agency; Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapy Services; the Gonzales Healthcare Systems Foundation and more.

The hospital itself includes 33 beds, including obstetrics/labor & delivery, with an inpatient area staffed round-the-clock with registered nurses and LVNS, designed to care for patients suffering from an illness or recovering from surgery until their physician deems they are well enough to be discharged. For patients needing a higher level of attention and care, a special care unit is available.

The hospital also offers 24/7 laboratory services, respiratory, diagnostic imaging and nutritional consultations with a registered dietician. Plus the dining room continues to excel under the leadership of food service manager Toni Gonzales, who began working for GHS at the old location in 1978, moved to

the current location when it opened and has been there ever since!

“Ever since our last anniversary celebration, we’ve seen remarkable changes,” said Holly Danz, director of marketing for Gonzales Healthcare Systems. “We added a rural health clinic in Shiner, we’ve added specialists to our outpatient specialty clinic, we withstood the COVID pandemic and cared for patients with unwavering strength.

“Most recently, we transitioned to a new electronic medical records software which allows for greater efficiency when patients are seen in any of our facilities as all of their previous visits/screenings/etc. can be viewed in one place at one time. We look forward to the construction of a new surgical wing as we start 2024.

“Every change and upgrade we take on truly has the patient in mind,” Danz said. “We want to be the healthcare provider of choice for our community, and we want to offer those patients the amenities they would experience in urban facilities. Patient care and patient experience drives every decision our organization makes.” N

All In

Come and stay where the allure of the great outdoors meets genuine southern hospitality. Nestled along the picturesque banks of the renowned Guadalupe River, we invite you to explore miles of scenic trails and witness the cannon that ignited the Texas Revolution.

HERITAGE

Pioneer Village Living History Center hosts a collection of 1800s and early 1900s structures from Gonzales County, preserving the cultural lifestyle of pioneers.

Fort Waul, located on Waldrip Hill, is one of Texas' few remaining Confederate earthwork fortifications, intended as a supply depot and defensive post on the Guadalupe River.

The Edwards High School Community Center and African American Museum features an architecturally significant lamella-vaulted roof. Built in 1914, this school served African American children until desegregation in 1964. Tours are available with advance scheduling.

The Gonzales County Courthouse, dating back to 1895, was designed by architect J.

Riely Gordon. The courthouse is open to the public, showcasing a Romanesque Revival style.

The Gonzales County Jail Museum was built in the 19th century. The former county jail is a monumental three-story architectural jewel, now a museum highlighting early law enforcement in Texas. Open for tours and research.

The Gonzales Memorial Museum is a Texas Centennial Historical Memorial Museum commemorating the Alamo's Immortal 32, featuring the cannon that fired the first shot for Texas Independence in 1835.

The Eggleston House was built in 1848, and is one of Gonzales' oldest homes. This well-preserved log cabin offers self-guided tours.

Revival style Braches House, adds historical significance.

The Charles DuBose Gun & Militaria Collection, pictured below, is the largest private collection of guns and militaria in the US, featuring rare and unique items, including holsters, trench art, and flags.

The Vickie Bushong Collection of Texas Revolutionary Documents is a significant private collection of Texas Revolutionary Documents, including authentic signatures of historical figures.

The Herbert Hensley Point & Arrowhead Collection is an impressive assortment of artifacts found on a Gonzales County Farm in the early 1900s.

The Sam Houston Oak & Braches House is where Houston's army camped in 1836. The Sam Houston Oak, along with the Greek

Built in 1885, the J.B. Wells Historic Home Museum, owned by rancher J.B. Wells, is a Recorded Texas Historical Landmark, featuring black walnut furniture and historical artifacts, including a 200-year-old sugar bowl.

Antiques, Boutiques, & More

Come and explore the shopping scene in our town, filled with unique finds and treasures.

ANTIQUES

321 Pop-Up Market is brimming with gently used, new, antique, and vintage items,from furniture to kitchen items.

Discovery Architectural Antiques has a variety of architectural antiques inluding vintage doors, hardware, lumber, tubs & sinks, windows/stained glass, and more.

Grammy’s Timeless Treasures has 5,000 square feet of vintage, antique, and new items!

Halamicek Auto Supply & Collectibles offers friendly service and a unique collection since 1928, including metal art, custom-made steel BBQ pits, and more.

Laurel Ridge Antiques, Inn, and Christmas has everything from 19th-century antiques to handcrafted artisan goods and Christmas items .

Main Street Marketplace has antiques, relics, home decor, clothing, jewelry, glassware, and much more.

Peach Creek Antiques is a locally owned shop featuring antique, vintage, primitive, farmhouse, and shabby chic items.

APPAREL & BOUTIQUES

Angels & Outlaws specializes in Texas Fashion. This boutique helps strong women

look fabulous, whether it’s a ‘PTA’ kinda day or a ‘Thelma and Louise’ adventure.

CREW Men's Store: Explore men's apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products.

Gonzales Visitor Center & Come and Take It

Shop is your connection to Texas History. Drop in for tourism information, history, or official Come & Take It merchandise.

Holly Jeanne Boutique has a selection of women’s apparel.

Shear Designs Boutique is one of the top locations for women's fashion and fashion advice, specializing in trendy styles.

GIFTS

Bluestem is where you can discover art and products made by artists, artisans, and farmers throughout the Great State of Texas.

BZ's Country Petals has fresh flowers in a selection of arrangements.

Hearty Gourmet sells specialty food items for the kitchen and home.

Hollerin Heifer Mercantile is your one-stop-shop for gifts, toys, trinkets, blast-from-the-past candy, and ice cream.

Manny's Pottery Imports has chimeneas, gifts, jewelry, plants, and more.

Person's Flower Shop is afamily-owned flower shop designing custom floral arrangements.

Purple Cactus Potteri is a unique pottery shop where you can choose, paint, and take home your piece. Featuring local color and seasonal offers.

The China Basket: A wonderful gift store featuring home goods, fashion, accessories, baby/children's gifts, Circle E Candles, etc.

OTHER

Edward's Furniture: Quality merchandise at affordable prices and easy financing.

Fehner & Son Grain Co.: Originally offering cattle, chicken, and hog feed, now also selling firearms, gun safes, and ammo.

WB Farm & Ranch Supply: This family-owned business provides a full line of products for homeowners, building contractors, and local businesses.

A Culinary Destination

Come and savor the flavors of our town’s diverse food scene: From savory steakhouses to cozy cafes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

AMERICAN & BBQ

Baker Boys BBQ has unique menu items, providing an extraordinary dining experience beyond traditional barbecue.

Cow Palace is a family-style restaurant featuring American and Tex Mex fare.

Diamond A Goss BBQ

Fire City Grill serves delicious BBQ brisket, sausage, chicken, and delicious burgers.

Gonzales Food Market serves smoked meats and delectable fare, celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Gonzales.

Guerra Grill & Catering is a family-owned and operated restaurant with great food and hospitality.

Running M Bar & Grill is a popular downtown restaurant, hangout, and music venue named for a historical cattle brand.

Sonny’s Bar-B-Q is a popular for BBQ, stuffed potatoes, and stew.Look for the food truck next to King's filling station.

Toni’s Food Store is a popular cafeteria-style family-owned restaurant serving a variety of food each day: Tex Mex, American, BBQ, and more.

BREAKFAST

Come and Crepe It serves made-to-order omelets, crepes, pastries, and coffee. pastries. Serving breakfast and lunch.

Daylight Donuts serves fresh donuts and delicious kolaches

Matamoras Taco Hut is famous for breakfast tacos! Dine in or drive-through; calling ahead your order is encouraged.

Texpresso is a drive-through specialty drink stand featuring coffee, lattes, tea, smoothies, and so much more. Online ordering available.

CASUAL DINING

Come and Take It Bar & Grill is a bar and restaurant downtown with a menu of variety.

GG Steaks and Spirits is a restaurant, bar, and venue, large menu offerings, good for groups.

La Bella Tavola is an Italian Grill and Pizzeria.

FINE DINING

Gonzales Bistro is an upscale, chef-driven restaurant offering award-wnning meals and craft cocktails, beer, and wine. Definitely worth a special trip.

MEXICAN & TEX MEX

Acapulco Restaurant

El Regio Buffet is a weekend buffet serving Mexican fares.

Mi Lupita Taco House is open for breakfast and lunch.

Mr. Taco offers a full menu of Mexican and Tex-Mex flair.

Reyna’s Taco serves homemade flour and corn tortillas, made fresh daily. Popular for breakfast tacos.

Rodeo Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Taquitos 183 serves Mexican food and Tex Mex every day.

Come & Stay Awhile

Whether you’re here for a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay, we have a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs. From quaint bed and breakfasts to historic homes, our rentals offer a unique glimpse into local life.

BED & BREAKFASTS

Belle Oaks Inn

Laurel Ridge Antiques, Inn, and Christmas

Saint James Bed and Breakfast

HOTELS

Historic Alcalde Hotel

Best Western Regency Inn & Suites

Dilworth Inn

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

La Quinta Inn & Suites

Microtel Inn & Suites

Quality Inn

Sleep Inn & Suites

Studio 6 Gonzales

The Wolff Motel

RV PARKS

4L RV Ranch

Gone Fishin RV Park

Hill Shade RV Park

Hill Top RV Park

Independence Park & Golf Course

J.B. Wells Park, Arena & Expo

Lake Wood Recreation Area

Palmetto State Park

Patriot RV Park

Pollard RV Park

River Acres RV Park

VACATION RENTALS

Cabana Guest House

Historic T. J. Pilgrim House

Historic J. H. Boothe House

Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Texas heritage in Gonzales, where history, shopping, dining, and unforgettable stays await. For further assistance in crafting your perfect Gonzales getaway, visit our website, or connect with the Tour Gonzales Visitor's Center. Your extraordinary Texas ecape begins with us – let's make memories together.

888-672-1095

tourism@gonzalestexas.com

304 Saint Louis, Gonzales, TX 78629

https://tourgonzales.com

COME AND TAKE IT ALL IN GONZALES POINTS OF INTEREST

COME AND TAKE IT ALL IN GONZALES POINTS OF INTEREST

1. Palmetto State Park

78 Park Road 11 South/ (830) 672- 3266

A little piece of the tropics lies just an hour from Austin and San Antonio. With multiple sources of water (including the San Marcos River), Palmetto State Park is a haven for a wide variety of animals and plants. Look for dwarf palmettos, the park’s namesake, growing under the trees. You can swim, tube, fish and canoe here. Besides the flowing river, the park also has an oxbow lake, an artesian well and swamps. RV and Tent camping available.

Individual pieces were joined together with bolts or plates to form a rhomboid pattern. There is a museum in the classroom building. Tours are available when scheduled in advance.

Gonzales County Archives & Record Center

427 St. George Street / (830) 672-7970

2 Pioneer Village & Living History Center

2122 N. Saint Joseph Street / (830) 672-2157

Pioneer Village Living History Center houses a collection of 1800s and early 1900s era houses and buildings from Gonzales County. Each structure has been donated and carefully relocated to the grounds of The Village for its preservation. The furnishings and equipment found within these structures represent the cultural lifestyle of the pioneers who settled this area. Their annual evening event in December, Stars in The Village, is highly attended.

An extensive collection of Gonzales County historical information available for researchers. This archive has items dating back to 1838. It is utilized by authors researching Texas History and families conducting genealogical research. The Archives are housed in the historic Randle-Rather building which opened as a department store in 1897.

Independence Square

Bounded by St. Joseph, St. George, St. Paul, & St. Lawrence Street. Site of the annual “Come and Take It Celebration” celebrating our community’s history. City of Gonzales Historic Fire Stationtwo-story fire station built in 1908. It was originally constructed to house horse drawn equipment. It was remodeled in 1918 to accommodate a motor drawn pumper.

3. Fort Waul

Marker located at the intersection of North St Joseph Street (Business State Highway 183) and Middle Buster Road (County Highway 510).

Fort Waul, located on Waldrip Hill, a high, wide hill on the northern edge of the city of Gonzales, is one of the few remaining Confederate earthwork fortifications in Texas. The fort was intended to be a supply depot for the Confederate Army in the Western Subdistrict of Texas, as well as a defensive post on the Guadalupe River.

Market Square – Historic Riverside School

200 St. Lawrence Street

The Edwards High School Community Center & African American Museum

1427 Fly Street / (830) 263-1611

The school was built in 1914 and served the African American children of Gonzales County until school desegregation in 1964. The school and gymnasium are owned by the Edwards Association. The gymnasium on the property has a beautiful and architecturally significant lamella vaulted roof. These roofs, patented in 1910 by Friedrich Zollinger, were popular between World Wars, when metal was in short supply.

Opening in 1914, the Water Street Mexican School, later named Riverside School was built to provide classrooms for Mexican American children, it was designed to provide students with opportunities for success regardless of their heritage, economic status, or home language. The one-story brick schoolhouse originally housed 6 grades, and there were additions to the building and new facilities on the campus as enrollment grew. This included a surplus army building from Camp Swift and the former Stieren School both being moved here. The Riverside School was used by Hispanics until 1948 and then African American students until 1965.

8. Texas Heroes Square

Bounded by N. St Joseph Street, St. Lawrence Street, St. James Street, and St Louis Street.

The square honors the men of Gonzales that fought in the Texas Revolution. The ‘Come and Take It’ monument (by sculptor Pompeo Coppini) was built in 1910 through the efforts of the

Dickenson brought word of the fall of the Alamo. The Braches house is a Greek Revival style home that was a plantation house and stagecoach stop.

in the Texas Revolution. State Historical Survey Committee – 1966

Robert Lee Brothers, Jr. Memorial Library

301 Saint Joseph Street / (830) 672-6315

Josephine used this gift from her grandmother, Edith Nobles Hodges, to tell the story of the early settlement of Texas and the Republic era. The home is a designated Recorded Texas Historical Landmark. It is owned by The Daughters of the Republic of Texas and lovingly cared for by the Gonzales Chapter of DRT.

9. Central Square – Gonzales County Courthouse, Gonzales County Jail Museum

Mary Elizabeth Tinsley Texas History Center

One of the largest Texas History Book Collections in the state. Extensive resources for genealogical research.

The

Charles DuBose Gun & Militaria Collection

Vickie Bushong Collection of Texas Revolutionary Documents

Gonzales County Courthouse

The Dubose Collection is the largest private collection of guns and militaria on display in the US. The exhibit includes many rare and one-of-a-kind items. In addition to guns, the collection includes holsters, trench art, commemoratives, flags, helmets and swords.

414 St. Joseph / (830) 672-2327

Independence Park – Golf Course, River Access, RV Camp Sites

William P Dooley Bypass Hwy 183/(830) 672-3192

open to the public and available for touring.

Gonzales County Jail Museum

414 St. Lawrence Street (830) 263-4663

One

The Vickie Bushong Collection is a significant private collection of Texas Revolutionary Documents. The collection includes the authentic signatures of David Crockett, William B. Travis and Santa Anna. Because of Bushong’s family history, she became an avid collector of early maps of Texas, documents, currency and photographs from the Republic of Texas and of Quanah Parker.

Independence Park is located off Highway 183 on the banks of the Guadalupe River. This park includes three covered pavilions, little league fields, softball/baseball fields, soccer fields, basketball court, volleyball courts, swimming pool, a 21-site RV Park, show barn, rodeo arena, a 2.35-mile hike and bike trail and scenic views of the Guadalupe River. The park also hosts an attractive 9-hole golf course.

J.B. Wells Park, Arena & Expo Center

2301 CR 197 / (830) 672-6558

Church Square

J. B. Wells Parks

Bounded by St. Paul, St. Louis, St. Peter, St. Lawrence. Home of First United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church.

Herbert Hensley Point & Arrowhead Collection

Impressive collection of artifacts found on a Gonzales County Farm in the early 1900’s.

Cemetery Square

Bounded by N Hamilton, St. Louis, N College and St. Lawrence. Home of the St. James Catholic Church and Episcopal Church of the Messiah .

Gonzales Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, Visitor’s Center, Come and Take It Shop

304 St. Louis Street / (830) 672-6532

This 169-acre park boasts a covered pavilion, multi-purpose show barn, covered arena, practice arena, hike and bike trail, and 442 RV Hook-ups. J.B. Wells Park hosts many events throughout the year; bull riding, cutting horse events, team roping, barrel races, weddings, 4-H play days, Rusted Gingham Barn Sale, junior high and high school rodeos, stock shows, cattle sales, tractor pulls, concerts and much more.

Gonzales Memorial Museum , First Shot Cannon

Tomb of Gonzales Joe Bailey, AQA Foundation Sire

414 Smith Street / (830) 672-6350

The

Your resource for all things Gonzales! We can give you the information you need to visit or relocate. We have a great selection of Come and Take It souvenirs.

Born in Gonzales in 1919, Joe Bailey is designated as one of the American Quarter Horse Associations nineteen foundation sires. The site was awarded AQA Historical Marker status in 2007.

First Shot Monuments Historic District, Gonzales County

Military Square

Bounded by St. Joseph Street, St. Matthew Street , St. Paul Street, and St. Louis Street

4049 TX-97

monument comprised of pink granite and a bronze sculpture by artist Raoul Josset.

Home of the Presbyterian Church of Gonzales & Community Butterfly Garden.

The Eggleston House

414 Smith Street

J.B. Wells Historic Home Museum

833 Mitchell Street, / (830) 519-4048

Gonzales Rancher T.N. Matthews drove cattle up the Chisolm Trail. His cattle baron’s mansion was built in 1885 and sold to J B Wells, another prominent cattleman, in 1890. It was quite a modern residence for its time with a fire escape, lightning rods, and indoor plumbing. The 15-room mansion has many pieces of Guadalupe River Valley black walnut furniture, hand crafted during the Republic of Texas. The site includes the original outdoor kitchen, barn, and carriage house. A 200-year-old sugar bowl that was buried in 1835 during the Runaway Scrape by Josephine Well’s grandparents, the Hodges, to save it from the approaching Mexican Army is on display in the dining room.

The home in Gonzales, County this is one of the finest examples of a preserved log cabin in the state.

Kerr Creek Park & 18-hole Disc Golf Course

St. Louis Street from North Fair Street to Sarah Dewitt Drive/ (830) 672-3192

K

Near here on October 2, 1835, was fired the first shot of the Texas Revolution of 1835-36 - the shot heard around the world. At Gonzales the Texans defied the Mexican government and refused their demand for the Gonzales cannon with the "Come and Take It" challenge until reinforcements arrived from other parts of DeWitt's Colony and from the colonies on the Colorado and Brazos. They then pursued the Mexicans from Gonzales to near this point and fired upon them with this cannon, driving them back to Bexar. This shot started the revolution and was directly responsible for adding more territory to the United States than was acquired by the freeing of the original thirteen colonies from England.

Joseph) or the Visitor‘s Center (304 St. Louis Street).

Sam Houston Oak & Braches House

CR 361 Sam Houston Oak

The

Gonzales Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Marker text: Gonzales Town tract of 4 square leagues had 49 squares in Inner City. 7 of these squares for public use. This one was for municipal buildings but became a Plaza. Now called Texas Heroes Square, in honor of all Gonzales men who fought in the Texas Revolution. State Historical Survey Committee – 1966

Gonzales Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Marker text: Gonzales Town tract of 4 square leagues had 49 squares in Inner City. 7 of these squares for public use. This one was for municipal buildings but became a Plaza. Now called Texas Heroes Square, in honor of all Gonzales men who fought in the Texas Revolution. State Historical Survey Committee – 1966

9. Central Square – Gonzales County Courthouse, Gonzales County Jail Museum

9. Central Square – Gonzales County Courthouse, Gonzales County Jail Museum

Gonzales County Courthouse

Gonzales County Courthouse

414 St. Joseph / (830) 672-2327

414 St. Joseph / (830) 672-2327

The courthouse, dating from 1895, was designed by noted Texas architect, J. Riely Gordon in the Romanesque Revival style made popular by architect H.H. Richardson. Our historic County Courthouse is open to the public and available for touring.

The courthouse, dating from 1895, was designed by noted Texas architect, J. Riely Gordon in the Romanesque Revival style made popular by architect H.H. Richardson. Our historic County Courthouse is open to the public and available for touring.

Gonzales County Jail Museum

Gonzales County Jail Museum

414 St. Lawrence Street (830) 263-4663

414 St. Lawrence Street (830) 263-4663

One of the most monumental county jails built in Texas in the nineteenth century, the former Gonzales County Jail is the largest extant from that century. Three story architectural jewel built at the height of the Victorian Era. The first prisoner was accepted in 1887. Used as a jail until 1975. The Old Jail now houses the Jail Museum highlighting the history of early law enforcement in Texas. Also, home to the Gonzales County Historical Commission and their historical archives. Open for tours and research.

One of the most monumental county jails built in Texas in the nineteenth century, the former Gonzales County Jail is the largest extant from that century. Three story architectural jewel built at the height of the Victorian Era. The first prisoner was accepted in 1887. Used as a jail until 1975. The Old Jail now houses the Jail Museum highlighting the history of early law enforcement in Texas. Also, home to the Gonzales County Historical Commission and their historical archives. Open for tours and research.

Church Square

Church Square

Bounded by St. Paul, St. Louis, St. Peter, St. Lawrence. Home of First United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church.

Bounded by St. Paul, St. Louis, St. Peter, St. Lawrence. Home of First United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church.

Cemetery Square

Cemetery Square

Bounded by N Hamilton, St. Louis, N College and St. Lawrence. Home of the St. James Catholic Church and Episcopal Church of the Messiah .

Bounded by N Hamilton, St. Louis, N College and St. Lawrence. Home of the St. James Catholic Church and Episcopal Church of the Messiah .

Gonzales Memorial Museum , First Shot Cannon

Gonzales Memorial Museum , First Shot Cannon

414 Smith Street / (830) 672-6350

414 Smith Street / (830) 672-6350

The Gonzales Memorial Museum is a Texas Centennial Historical Memorial Museum that commemorates the Immortal 32 who died in the Alamo. The cannon which fired the first shot for Texas Independence on October 2, 1835, is prominently displayed. The structure is an elegant Art Deco complex which includes two exhibition wings, an outdoor 500-seat amphitheater, and a reflecting pool designed by the San Antonio architectural firm of Phelps and Dewees. The complex is constructed of shell limestone and trimmed in Cordova cream limestone. The central exterior entry features a monument comprised of pink granite and a bronze sculpture by artist Raoul Josset.

The Gonzales Memorial Museum is a Texas Centennial Historical Memorial Museum that commemorates the Immortal 32 who died in the Alamo. The cannon which fired the first shot for Texas Independence on October 2, 1835, is prominently displayed. The structure is an elegant Art Deco complex which includes two exhibition wings, an outdoor 500-seat amphitheater, and a reflecting pool designed by the San Antonio architectural firm of Phelps and Dewees. The complex is constructed of shell limestone and trimmed in Cordova cream limestone. The central exterior entry features a monument comprised of pink granite and a bronze sculpture by artist Raoul Josset.

The Eggleston House

The Eggleston House

414 Smith Street

414 Smith Street

The Eggleston House was built in Gonzales after the Runaway Scrape and burning of the town in 1836. Horace Eggleston built this house in 1848 and it was one of the first erected. In 1954 the house was given to the city of Gonzales by Mr. and Mrs. E.E. Smith Jr. Open for self-guided tours. Considered the oldest home in Gonzales, County this is one of the finest examples of a preserved log cabin in the state.

The Eggleston House was built in Gonzales after the Runaway Scrape and burning of the town in 1836. Horace Eggleston built this house in 1848 and it was one of the first erected. In 1954 the house was given to the city of Gonzales by Mr. and Mrs. E.E. Smith Jr. Open for self-guided tours. Considered the oldest home in Gonzales, County this is one of the finest examples of a preserved log cabin in the state.

Kerr Creek Park & 18-hole Disc Golf Course

Kerr Creek Park & 18-hole Disc Golf Course

St. Louis Street from North Fair Street to Sarah Dewitt Drive/ (830) 672-3192

St. Louis Street from North Fair Street to Sarah Dewitt Drive/ (830) 672-3192

Kerr Creek Park is home to the historic Oak Forest Bridge and 18-hole disc golf course. The Oak Forest Bridge was built in 1913 over the Guadalupe River and was replaced in 2003. The bridge was relocated for a pedestrian bridge over Kerr Creek. The Disc Golf Course was established in 2003 and is home to the annual Gonzo Liberty Battle part of the Heart of Texas Tour Disc Golf qualifiers. It is a well-maintained course with rolling fairways. Score cards are available at the Parks and Recreation Office (1920 St. Joseph) or the Visitor‘s Center (304 St. Louis Street).

Kerr Creek Park is home to the historic Oak Forest Bridge and 18-hole disc golf course. The Oak Forest Bridge was built in 1913 over the Guadalupe River and was replaced in 2003. The bridge was relocated for a pedestrian bridge over Kerr Creek. The Disc Golf Course was established in 2003 and is home to the annual Gonzo Liberty Battle part of the Heart of Texas Tour Disc Golf qualifiers. It is a well-maintained course with rolling fairways. Score cards are available at the Parks and Recreation Office (1920 St. Joseph) or the Visitor‘s Center (304 St. Louis Street).

Sam Houston Oak & Braches House

Sam Houston Oak & Braches House

CR 361 Sam Houston Oak

CR 361 Sam Houston Oak

The Sam Houston Oak is the site that Houston’s army was camped at on March 11, 1836, when Susannah

The Sam Houston Oak is the site that Houston’s army was camped at on March 11, 1836, when Susannah

Eric Church, Whiskey Myers, Koe Wetzel headline first-time fiesta featuring elite food, beverage and camping offerings

Cattle Country Music Festival

will turn Gonzales into a sensory cathedral

The organizers of the inaugural Cattle Country Music Festival want to take thousands of country music fans to Church with a side of Whiskey and Koe this April.

The triumvirate of Eric Church, Whiskey Myers and Koe Wetzel will headline the first Cattle Country Music Festival on April 12-14, 2024, in an event that will combine music, wine, spirits and culinary excellence bar none on a beautiful ranch just outside Gonzales, birthplace of the Texas Revolution. Performances will take place from noon to midnight each day of this three-day festival.

Joining them will be a lineup of heavy hitters in Red Dirt, Americana, soul, rock and other musical genres, including such luminaries as the Randy Rogers Band, Country Music Hall of Fame legend Tanya Tucker, Tracy Lawrence, Shane Smith & The Saints, Sublime with Rome, Chase Rice, KALEO and Colbie Caillat.

Others on the bill include Hailey Whitters, William Clark Green, Southall, Blackhawk, Red Clay Strays, William Beckmann, Tanner Usrey, Breland, The War and Treaty, Austin Snell, ZZ Ward, Treaty Oak Revival, The Glorious Sons, Drake White, Tyler Braden, The Weathered Souls, Matt Koziol, Kyler Weston, Derek Austin and Angel White.

The festival will unfold on a 400-acre ranch known as “The Boot” for its unique landscape shaped like country music’s favorite footwear. Located a stone’s throw from downtown Gonzales, this sprawling ranch stretches along approximately three miles of the Guadalupe River and boasts more than 150 acres of Texas pecan trees, creating shaded groves alongside the riverbank. Not only does The Boot provide a perfect backdrop for a unique music festival, but it offers opportunities for camping and glamping as festival goers relax and immerse themselves in serenity, swimming among the aptly named “Cowboy Coves,” wine and spirits tasting and more.

The Come and Take It Lounge will be a signature element of the festival, an “upscale oasis” where festival goers can sample some of the best Texas and international wines, craft cocktails and bespoke culinary offerings curated by an assortment of Texas chefs plus more.

Named for the famous cry raised by the Old 18 at the Battle of Gonzales, the event which sparked the Texas Revolution, the Come and Take It Lounge will also have big-screen TVs

showing sports and yard games — a place to relax and recharge between musical acts, set along the beautiful Guadalupe River. There will be a symphony of music, wine, spirits, brews, gourmet eating and entertaining games.

Tickets are now on sale at www. CattleCountryFest.com. Single day General Admission tickets start at $125, with multi-night packages ranging from $199-$799. Premium VIP and glamping packages feature a range of offerings including early load-in, exclusive lounge and front-of-stage viewing pit access, and more.

With more than 20 ticketing tiers and experience packages available, fans have a wide variety of options to experience Cattle Country. N

Come and Take It

Dance

continues grand tradition of legendary ballet companies

The American Ballet Theatre. The Bolshoi Ballet. Come and Take It Dance of Gonzales. While you may question why the third in that series should be mentioned in the same breath as those other legendary companies, it should be noted that Come and Take It Dance puts on professionallevel performances twice each year with one held in the summer and “The Nutcracker” held in the winter — both staged at the historic The Crystal Theatre in Gonzales.

Nutcracker synopsis

The story begins on Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaum house, a grand residence adorned with the most beautiful tree imaginable. The Stahlbaums host their annual Christmas party, welcoming family and friends. The evening takes a magical turn with the arrival of godfather Drosselmeyer, a skilled clock and toy maker, known for his surprises. The party becomes festive with music and dance, as Drosselmeyer presents two life-size dolls. Clara receives a beautiful Nutcracker from him, becoming the party’s highlight. However, a jealous Fritz breaks the Nutcracker, only to have Drosselmeyer magically repair it. As the night grows late, the guests depart, and the Stahlbaum family retires for the evening. Clara, worried about her Nutcracker, sneaks back to the tree, falling asleep with him in her arms.

At the stroke of midnight, the magical transformation begins. Clara shrinks, the Christmas tree grows, and toys come to life. An army of mice, led by the fierce Mouse

queen, fills the room. The Nutcracker awakens, leading his toy soldiers into battle. However, the Mouse queen corners the Nutcracker, and a one-on-one battle ensues. The Nutcracker and his army face capture until Clara, in a final daring charge, throws her slipper at the Mouse queen, saving the day.

The Nutcracker transforms into a Prince, taking Clara on a journey to the Land of Snow, where dancing snowflakes welcome them. The adventure continues to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy, rewards them with dazzling dances, including the Spanish Dance, Arabian Dance, Russian Dance, Chinese Dance, Mirliton Dance, Mother Ginger and the Waltz of Flowers. The grand finale features a beautiful Pas De Deux by the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Cavalier.

As Clara awakens from her dream, surrounded by her Christmas tree and beloved Nutcracker, the enchanting performance concludes.

The Sleeping Beauty synopsis

The Come and Take It Dance performance is pared down from the original ballet and is comprised of two acts. In Act I, King Florestan XIV and Queen celebrate the christening of their daughter, Princess Aurora, with fairies bestowing gifts. Evil fairy Carabosse arrives uninvited, curses Aurora to prick her finger and die on her sixteenth birthday.

Aurora turns 16 and dances with her four suitors. Carabosse appears as an old woman with a spindle, Aurora pricks her finger, and falls into a deep sleep. Lilac Fairy reminds everyone that Aurora is not dead, but sleeping for 100 years and casts a spell to shield the castle with an impenetrable forest.

Prince Désiré and his hunting party are in the forest. The Lilac Fairy appears before Prince Désiré and tells him of Aurora, and they dance together. Désiré goes on a quest to find the Sleeping Beauty, slays the wicked Carabosse, awakens Aurora with a kiss, and they marry.

Act II is the wedding, in which the court assembles for the wedding of Princess Aurora and Prince Désiré. The invited guests include many fairy tale characters.

Come and Take It Dance

establishes non-profit Gonzales Youth Ballet

In the aftermath of their triumphant second annual Nutcracker, Come and Take It Dance is delighted to introduce a compelling initiative that invites local residents to shape the future of aspiring dancers in our community. The overwhelming response from arts patrons expressing a desire to sponsor a dancer has led to the creation of “Gonzales Youth Ballet” - a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

“At Gonzales Youth Ballet, we firmly believe that financial barriers should never impede the pursuit of passion and talent. Your tax-deductible donation holds the power to grant a dancer a year-long scholarship, enabling them to immerse themselves in the world of dance,” the company said.

“This scholarship program not only supports individual dancers but also contributes to the cultural richness of our community. It’s an opportunity to invest in the arts and empower talented individuals to pursue their passion.”

To ensure a commitment to excellence, scholarship recipients must meet specific criteria. They are required to participate in a minimum of three group classes per week and one private lesson, fostering a structured environment for continuous growth. Additionally, applicants must have a dance background of at least three months before applying for the scholarship, ensuring a foundation for progress.

“This scholarship program not only supports individual dancers but also contributes to the cultural richness of our community. It’s an opportunity to invest in the arts and empower talented individuals to pursue their passion,” the company said.

“If you feel a connection to this cause and are interested in making a lasting impact, we invite you to sponsor a dancer. Your support can make dreams come true, allowing these dedicated individuals to thrive in their artistic journey. Let’s unite as a community to nurture the next generation of dancers. Your generosity can spark a lifelong love for the arts and pave the way for future performances that captivate hearts and minds.”

To contribute to this transformative initiative, please visit the Come and Take It Dance website: www. comeandtakeitdance.com. Alternatively, you can reach out to Come and Take It Dance directly at 310.592.1067 for more information or to express your interest in providing a scholarship.

Not long after Come and Take It Dance opened in Gonzales, they held their first performance of The Nutcracker with a cast of both professionals and local talent to rave reviews in January 2023 — the event sold out and left patrons wanting more.

“Our first Nutcracker performance was a tremendous success in our small city,” said Guy Lahav, who runs the studio with his partner Gary Franco. “The audience was thrilled by the talented dancers, stunning costumes, and beautiful sets. The performance was sold out, and we received many positive reviews from attendees. “The entire cast and crew put in a tremendous amount of hard work, and their efforts paid off in a big way. It was a magical evening that left a lasting impression on everyone

“

who attended. We have already started rehearsing for our next big performance and hope to continue to bring joy and entertainment to our community through the art of dance.”

The first performance of The Sleeping Beauty” was held in June 2023 and featured three professional principal dancers along with local talent from the studio. It also was a smashing success, as was the second performance of “The Nutcracker” by Come and Take It Dance in January 2024.

The studio will perform “Swan Lake” this year on June 8-9 on The Crystal Theatre stage.

You can learn more about Come and Take It Dance on their website at www. comeandtakeitdance.com. N

Our first Nutcracker performance was a tremendous success in our small city. ... It was a magical evening that left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. We have already started rehearsing for our next big performance and hope to continue to bring joy and entertainment to our community through the art of dance.”

Guy Lahav, co-owner of Come & Take It Dance

Jammin Canna

Welcome to Gonzales County, a gem nestled in the heart of Texas! If you’re journeying through our charming area, there’s a local treasure you won’t want to miss - Jammin Canna, a unique CBD business that’s making waves with its homegrown, health-promoting products.

Owned by a dedicated doctor and proud veteran, Jammin Canna stands out as a beacon of natural wellness in Gonzales. Dr. Garth Vaz, the compassionate force behind Jammin Canna, embarked on a mission to offer a natural alternative to those battling chronic pain, arthritis, and various ailments. When CBD became legal in Texas, Dr. Vaz dived deep into the world of hemp-derived CBD, unlocking its potential to manage pain, ease anxiety, and foster better sleep. Jammin

Homegrown in the heart of Texas

Canna was born from his vision to provide locally made, health-enhancing products to the community and beyond, fulfilling a lifelong dream of promoting wellbeing locally and nationally.

Every product from Jammin Canna, be it the soothing topicals, nurturing tinctures, or our delightful edibles, is crafted right here in Gonzales, Texas. We adhere to the strictest Texas regulations, ensuring each item is thirdparty lab tested, physician-formulated, and made with only US-grown hemp. Our commitment to quality and purity is unwavering, just like our dedication to your health.

Among our treasures, the CannaBliss CBD Salve shines the brightest. This best-selling topical balm is a favorite for those seeking relief from localized pain. Simply massage it into your skin and let the magic unfold. But that’s

just the beginning! Our CBD Tincture is celebrated for its ability to enhance overall wellness and manage anxiety, making it a staple for full-body reprieve. And for a touch of indulgence, our unique edibles, like the Texas classic Pecan Pralines with a special twist, are sure to delight.

Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler discovering the wonders of Gonzales County, Jammin Canna invites you to explore our array of CBD products. Visit our website at WWW. JAMMINCANNA.COM and use the code “DISCOVERGONZALES” for a 10% discount on your first order.

Embark on a journey of natural wellness with us, and experience the care and passion we pour into every product. Welcome to the family, and enjoy the best of Gonzales with Jammin Canna! N

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from healthcare practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any products. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.

ROOF Praise the

Edwards High School gym’s lamella

One of the many hidden gems of Gonzales is the Edwards High School gym, and the Edwards Association is working tirelessly to save this building, which has been nominated for the National Register of Historic Places.

Education for African-American residents in Gonzales began in the 1870s at the home of Myrtle Moses Mathis, and more formalized instruction took place in the 1890s when the school occupied a two-story community building. A brick schoolhouse was erected about 1914 on land donated by W.M. Fly and Josephine K. Peck. It was named George Edwards High School in 1922 and served 300 students and eight teachers by 1940.

Edwards High School was closed in 1964 as schools were desegregated in compliance with the federal civil rights act. The school was sold in the 1970s to the city of Gonzales.

The Edwards Association was founded in the early 1980s by the alumni of Edwards High School in order to preserve the history of the city’s segregated school. The property was given back to the alumni association to restore and renovate.

The Edwards School Gym was built in 1950 at a cost of $59,000 and includes eight classroom spaces while also doubling as an auditorium. The gym features a historic and architecturally significant lamella roof system.

The lamella roof system was devised in 1908 in Dessau, Germany, by Frederich Zollinger, the city architect. Lamellae are the vertical membranes you see when you examine the underside of a mushroom. They also form the chambers in the shell of a univalve mollusk. These very lightweight pieces support the membrane which protects the plant/animal.

In the Lamella roof system, the wood members themselves are called lamellas. The individual pieces are joined together with bolts and/or plates to form intersecting transverse arches that create a rhomboid pattern. The sheathing covering these pieces completes the structure. These roofs were especially popular between World War I and World War II when metal was in short supply.

The Edwards Association mission is to provide and maintain a meeting and gathering space for the community; provide facilities and organization for activities for all age groups; provide educational opportunities and facilities for all segments of the community; and articulate the history, face and meaning of the Edwards High School experience and ensure that it becomes publicly known.

Board members include President David B. Tucy; Vice President Quincy Johnson; Secretary Tena Roaches; Treasurer JoAnn Lewis and Parliamentarian/Sergeant at Arms Eugene Wilson Sr. N

To donate to the Edwards Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, you can mail checks to P.O. Box 1823, Gonzales, TX 78629. They have a Zelle set up at 830-2631611 and the groups EIN is 74-2550974.

About the Edwards School Gym

• Built in 1950 for $59,000

• 8 classroom spaces (doubling as an auditorium)

• Lamella roof system was developed in Germany

• Structures were popular during WWI & WWII

‘To live is to

fly!’

GGonzales County approves preliminary plat for WT Airpark in Waelder

onzales County’s first airpark development moved one step closer to becoming a reality after the Gonzales County Commissioners Court approved the preliminary plat for the WT Airpark in Waelder.

WT Airpark is also known as The Whiskey Tango, which comes from the International Radio-Telephony Spelling Alphabet call signs for WT, which also stands for Waelder, Texas, and is located two miles east of Waelder at the intersection of US 90 and I-10, with access to the property from County Road 15 and Farm-to-Market Road 1618.

“WT Airpark was dreamed up by three landowners (all pilots) here in Waelder, Texas, who wanted a runway in their backyards,” said airpark manager and developer Brittany Oligney. “We’re excited to be able to share this dream with other pilots by creating a subdivision.

“Our vision is to build a place where pilots want to be … to attract those who want to be in the air and to share that love of aviation with the community.

Waelder is an ideal location for an airpark — there is room to build and grow and dream here, surrounded by an incredibly supportive and welcoming local community.”

For more information about the Whiskey Tango (WT Airpark), go to wtairpark.com.

The nearly 200-acre complex, which will have the airport identifier 90TT, will start Phase I with 12 two-acre residential lots as well as a 4,000-foot communal Bermuda grass runway that will eventually be paved and include lights and an approach. There will also be a community gathering area where residents can have bonfires and cookouts, along with a pond, walking trail and other amenities. Additional phases will add up to 30 more lots as well as a second, 5,000foot runway that could handle light jet traffic and there is an additional 100 acres of land where the airpark can expand in the future.

Oligney, a 2007 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy with a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering, has experience with military and general civilian aviation and first got her private pilot certificate and instrument rating while in high school. She has a great deal of varied flight experience including military pilot training, and co-founded a military-to-airlines transition company after leaving the Air Force.

The concept for WT Airpark was born during a visit with Oligney’s family, who owns a tree farm in the area.

“I was visiting family in Waelder and heard pilots discussing a great tract of land for a runway and the potential to create a subdivision; as a pilot since high school who has always wanted to live at an airpark, I quickly caught the vision and jumped at the opportunity to make WT Airpark a reality when offered the project,” Oligney said.

County Emergency Management and Permitting Director Jimmy Harless was effusive in his praise of the project.

“They’ve been working on it a long time.,” Harless said. “They did a hydrology study and we’ve got a very detailed water plan, and a letter of acceptance from our underground water district. And we talked a little bit about fire suppression side, because they are going to have some fuel there on site. Everything we’ve talked about, everything we’ve asked, they’ve agreed to do. I think this is a very nice community, going to be very nice, it’s going to grow.

“This is the kind of stuff that I hope we will see in the future. They did their homework on this and I think it’s gonna be a big asset to Gonzales County.” N

Gateway to Great Shopping

Shop the Gateway to Great Shopping in historic downtown Gonzales. If you are already on the downtown squares, take a short two block stroll to the 800 block of Saint Joseph Street and you’ll find Gonzales’ shopping treasure trove. With great customer service and plenty of parking, these shops have been serving residents and visitors alike consistently and imaginatively for over a cumulative 75 years.

If you are heading into Gonzales from the North you can’t miss Gonzales’ Gateway Shopping block. Start at Laurel Ridge Inn, Antiques, Christmas & Gifts in the stately 1914 home. The first floor is filled with gorgeous art and antiques, estate and custom jewelry and Christmas that will make you feel like a kid again. A nook with books about Texas, flowers that will have you guessing if they are real, and soaps and healing oils that

feed the soul and are featured in their Inn may tempt you into never leaving.

Trek up the stairs to the Inn rooms fitted with oversized antique beds and custom bedding, access to private balconies, and beautiful spacious decks. Laurel Ridge has been delighting customers for over 40 years and they continue to refine and innovate the shopper experience! Where else can you have a shopping sleepover?

Step across the parking lot where shoppers (especially foodies) will love the Hearty Gourmet. Now, after 15 years of learning what their customers say they “don’t see anywhere else” the Hearty Gourmet continually surprises with an expansive range of kitchen gadgets and gourmet mixes. Their jams and jellies and salsas are from farms and fields in the area, scrumptious lemon, lime, and orange curds from the distant shores

of Scotland, and great seasonings and sauces from coastal Maine. Like coffee? They offer over 20 flavors ground to your coffee makers specifications. You’ll love their coffee.

A few more steps round the corner and you will find a great boutique and salon … Shear Designs. The boutique has been showing off great finds from exclusive lines for over 20 years. Their bags by Consuela and Hobo have a waiting list the minute the new seasonal designs arrive! Beautifully embroidered tops and tanks by Ivy Jane and great dresses by Jade and Joy fill the racks. Comfy and cool shoes sit in stacks and stacks. Brighton Belts and jewelry add just the right touch of bling.

Whether you enter from the north to the 800 block of Saint Joseph Street or stroll from the squares …The Gateway to Great Shopping is not to be missed! N

PLACES OF

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Gonzales Family Church

Assembly of God

320 St. Andrew

First Assembly of God 509 E. 3rd St., Nixon

New Life Assembly of God

Corner of Church St. & Jessie Smith St., Gonzales

BAPTIST

Clark Baptist Church FM 794, Gonzales

Country Baptist Church Highway 87, Smiley

Eastside Baptist Church

Seydler Street, Gonzales

Efeso Iglesia Bautista Highway 87, Smiley

Elm Grove Baptist Church 4337 FM 1115

Waelder, TX, 78959

IN GONZALES COUNTY

First Baptist Church 422 St. Paul, Gonzales

First Baptist Church

403 N. Texas, Nixon

First Baptist Church

Highway 108 N., Smiley

First Baptist Church 406 N. Avenue E, Waelder

Greater Palestine Baptist Church S. of 90A (sign on Hwy 80)

Greater Rising Star Baptist Church

Harwood Baptist Church North of Post Office, Harwood

Iglesia Bautista Macedonia 201 S. Congress, Nixon

Iglesia Bautista Memorial Highway 97, Waelder

Leesville Baptist Church E. of Highway 80 on CR 121

Memorial Heights Baptist Church 1330 N. College, Gonzales

Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church 100 Capes, Gonzales

Oak Valley Baptist Church Highway 97, Bebe

Old Moulton Baptist Church 1121 N. College, Gonzales

Providence Missionary Baptist Church 1020 St. Andrew, Gonzales

Stratton Primitive Baptist FM 1447, 9 miles east of Cuero

St. James Baptist Church Hwy 80, north of Belmont.

St. Paul Baptist Church SE 2nd Street, Waelder

Shiner Baptist Church

Union Lea Baptist Church

St. Andrew St., Gonzales

Union Valley Baptist Church FM 1681, NW of Nixon

CATHOLIC

St. James Catholic Church

417 N. College, Gonzales

Sacred Heart Catholic Church St. John St., Gonzales

St. Joseph Catholic Church 207 S. Washington, Nixon

St. Patrick Catholic Church Waelder

St. Phillip Catholic Church Highway 87, Smiley

CHRISTIAN

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

712 Crockett, Luling

CHURCHES OF CHRIST

Church of Christ

1323 Seydler St., Gonzales

Church of Christ (Iglesia de Cristo) 201 E. Second St. Nixon

Church of Christ E. 3rd & Texas, Nixon

Church of Christ, Belmont

CHURCHES OF GOD

Community Church of God 1020 St. Louis, Gonzales

Gonzales Memorial Church of God in Christ 1113 Hastings, Gonzales

New Beginnings 1020 St. Louis, Gonzales

New Way Church of God in Christ 514 St. Andrew, Gonzales

EPISCOPAL

Episcopal Church of the Messiah 721 S. Louis, Gonzales

EVANGELICAL

La Vos del Evangelio, Mision Capilla del Pueblo W. Central at Hwy. 87, Nixon

FULL GOSPEL

Camp Valley Full Gospel Hwy 80, 7 mi. north of Nixon

Full Gospel Church

1426 Fisher, Gonzales

JEWISH

Adat Haderech, a Messianic shul HashemYeshua1@yahoo.com

LUTHERAN

First Evangelical Lutheran 1206 St. Joseph, Gonzales

Abiding Word Lutheran Church LCMS 1310 St. Louis, Gonzales

METHODIST

Belmont United Methodist Highway 90A, Belmont

Dewville United Methodist West of FM 1117 on CR 121

First United Methodist 426 St. Paul, Gonzales

First United Methodist 410 N. Franklin, Nixon

Harris Chapel United Methodist S. Liberty St., Nixon

Harwood Methodist Church Harwood

Henson Chapel United Methodist 1113 St. Andrew, Gonzales

Monthalia United Methodist CR 112 off Highway 97

Smiley United Methodist 1 blk. S. of Hwy. 87, Smiley

Webster Chapel A.M.E. 1027 Church St., Gonzales

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Agape Ministries

512 St. James, Gonzales

Bread of Life Ministries

613 St. Joseph, Gonzales

Christ the King Church

1262 U.S. Highway 77, South Hallettsville

Cowboy Church of Gonzales County J.B. Wells Show Barn

El Centro Cristiano “Agua Viva” 403 Highway 90 W, Waelder

Emmanuel Fellowship 1817 St. Lawrence, Gonzales

Encouraging Word Christian Fellowship Highway 80, Leesville

Lighthouse Church of Our Lord 1805 Weimar, Gonzales

New Life Temple for Jesus Christ 16214 US 90 W, Harwood

River of Life Christian Fellowship 207 Steele St., Smiley

Two Rivers Bible Church

1600 Sarah DeWitt Dr., Suite 210, Gonzales

INTER-DENOMINATIONAL

Faith Family Church

1812 Cartwheel Dr., Gonzales

PENTECOSTAL

Faith Temple Hwy. 80 (N. Nixon Ave.), Nixon

Holy Temple of Jesus Christ No. 2 1515 Dallas, Gonzales

Iglesia Pentecostes Filadelfia 893 S. Magnolia Ave., Luling

Temple Bethel Pentecostal 1104 S. Paul, Gonzales

Thompsonville Community Church CR 423, Thompsonville Between Harwood & Waelder off old Hwy. 90

Life Changing Church of Gonzales

3.3 miles north on Hwy 183, right on CR 235, then right on CR 236

PRESBYTERIAN

Pilgrim Presbyterian Church CR 210 off FM 1116

Presbyterian Church of Gonzales 414 St. Louis, Gonzales

Cheapside Presbyterian Church, Cuero

GONZALES CITY HALL 830-672-2815

NIXON CITY HALL 830-582-1924

WAELDER CITY HALL 830-788-7331

CITY OF SMILEY 830-587-6220

GONZALES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 830-672-6532

GONZALES INQUIRER NEWSPAPER 830-672-2861

GONZALES COUNTY COURTHOUSE 830-672-2327

GONZALES ISD 830-672-9551

NIXON-SMILEY CISD 830-582-1536

WAELDER ISD 830-239-5600

GONZALES COUNTY GAME WARDEN 830-857-5436

GONZALES COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE 830-672-6524

CITY OF GONZALES POLICE DEPARTMENT 830-672-8686

CITY OF NIXON POLICE DEPARTMENT 830-582-1395

CITY OF WAELDER POLICE DEPARTMENT 830-788-7270

fine wining and dining in historic downtown

Gonzales Bistro

Gonzales Bistro is the first and only restaurant to win the Wine Spectator Magazine’s Award of Excellence for its wine list in Gonzales County. The award is given by the prestigious national magazine, Wine Spectator, to only restaurants that prove that they are passionate about their food & wine programs and make an actual commitment in this facet of their business.

There are only five restaurants that have been awarded by Wine Spectator

Magazine in the entirety of San Antonio, 21 restaurants in Austin and 27 restaurants in Houston.

And we have such an eatery in our little historic town of Gonzales that makes everyone proud.

Chef Parind Vora wears many hats in the restaurant. He is the chef, first and foremost. He is also the food & beverage director which oversees the bar (cocktail menu and the wine program). He is assisted in the bar program by Madison Clampit. The bar

offers some highly creative craft cocktails.

Chef Vora also creates the menu, trains the staff on the food & beverage menus (dinner, Sunday brunch, Friday lunch, dessert and wine). He has cooked in several countries in Europe, South & Central Americas as well as the North East and South East regions of the east coast as well as New Mexico.

All this traveling and working experience shows in the overall experience of the guest. The bistro is also the only restaurant in Gonzales that uses the OpenTable reservations system that allow patrons to make a confirmed reservations anytime by going to www.gonzalesbistro.com day or night 24/7.

The new Friday lunch menu, served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday, includes such favorites as made to order fish and chips with battered and cooked fresh New England cod with Yukon gold potato French fries or roast beef au jus or crab cakes with wild rice pilaf!

Dinners feature aged prime, Akaushi and Wagyu beef and fresh seafood including Chilean sea bass, fresh Otoro and fresh New England oysters — served in a relaxed, fine dining atmosphere.

Come see the crown jewel of downtown Gonzales at 320 Saint George St. For more information, call 830-203-5100 or go to www. gonzalesbistro.com. N

Gonzales Bistro

Gonzales Bistro is more than the sum of its parts, where top quality ingredients & passion meet.

Come try our NEW Friday lunch from 11am - 2pm

Made to order fish & chips with battered and cooked Fresh New England cod fish with Yukon gold potato French fries, Roast beef sandwich jus jus, crab cake with wild rice pilaf and so much more!

Fed-ex fresh seafood including fresh New England oysters, fresh Otoro, Chilean sea bass.

We feature aged prime, Akaushi & wagyu beef. Wine Spectator Magazine award winning wine list. A full bar featuring craft cocktails and allocated bourbons, tequilas and Scotches.

All this in a jewel box restaurant with friendly, knowledgeable service.

www.gonzalesbistro.com