Sealy's Visitor Guide 2023

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Welcome to Sealy, TX!

Texas’ rich history started here in the early 1820’s with the original Mexican land grant to Moses Austin, which was settled by the “Old Three Hundred” under the leadership of Moses’s son, Stephen F. Austin. Nearly 60 years later, Sealy was founded on part of that original land grant. With so much pride on our rich history, we have worked hard to preserve our historic buildings while bringing adding new activities and shops to keep up with today’s trends. With a heart and spirit as big as Texas, we look forward to hosting you on your next getaway. From guided to hunts to golfing, biking and hiking, multigenerational travel to the solo traveler who wants to live like a local, or the history buff to the foodie, we have the vacation spot for you! Nestled at the intersections of Interstate 10 and Texas Highway 36, our prime location makes it easy to travel from Houston, San Antonio or Austin. We are here to provide a relaxing, semirural atmosphere for you while on vacation. Come on out to discover Sealy and see where history greets the future.

Sealy Convention & Visitors Bureau

Austin County Map

Map by Robert Plocheck

History of Sealy

1879

Sealy Founded 1880 Post Office and Railroad Depot Established

1887

Sealy News

Founded

1889

‘Mattresses from Sealy’ begins

1899

Brazos River Flood

Added homes, Hotels, Retail Stores, Factories, Cotton Gins, Grist Mills, Public School 1895 MKT spur extended through Sealy

Santa Fe Railroad Division moved to Bellville

1881 Daniel Haynes begins making cotton filled mattresses for friends

1885

Haynes patents the mattress

The Birth of Sealy

IN THE EARLY 1820S, An Anglo-American settlement was founded on the west bank of the Brazos River. Named the township of San Felipe de Austin, it soon became the capital of Stephen F. Austin’s colony. In the mid-1870s, the people of San Felipe declined an offer by the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway to route its new Galveston-Brenham spur through their town. Instead, the railroad was sold a right-ofway through the western section of the original 22,000-acre municipal tract. In 1875, the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe line purchased an 11,635-acre tract of land from the San Felipe de Austin Town Corporation (out of the original 22,000acre Mexican land grant of 1824 for San Felipe) and began surveying a townsite south of Bullinger’s Creek along the projected line of its new Galveston-Brenham spur. When the railroad reached the site not long thereafter, railroad yards and a roundhouse were constructed, and the railroad became the area’s principal employer. With the arrival of German and Czech settlers, farming and ranching also became part of the local economy, and the settlement became a shipping center for the produce of local farmers

1890’S Sealy Grist Mill Started

and ranchers. By 1879, the bustling town of Sealy had been founded, which was named in honor of George Sealy, a director of the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe. In 1880, a post office was established in the community, and soon many residents and businesses moved from San Felipe to the new commercial center. The Missouri, Kansas and Texas extended a spur through Sealy in 1895, and the Cane Belt Railroad completed a third road six years later.

Around 1900, the town experienced a series of misfortunes, including a disastrous Brazos River flood in 1899, the relocation of the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe division headquarters to Bellville, Texas (just north of Sealy) in January of the next year, and the devastating hurricane of 1900, which struck in September. However, the establishment of such manufacturing enterprises as the Haynes Mattress Factory, the Engelking Brothers Broom Factory, and the Sealy National Bank helped to build the commercial reputation of the growing community. On August 16, 1949, the residents of Sealy voted to incorporate the small town as Austin County’s newest city.

History of Sealy

A Famous Name

DANIEL HAYNES WAS AN EARLY SETTLER and cotton gin builder in Sealy. In 1881, he began making cottonfilled, non-tufted mattresses for his friends. In 1885, he developed a machine that compressed cotton, ultimately making the process easier and more efficient. Haynes saw the machine’s potential for success, so he licensed the machine in 1889 and began selling the license to others.

Those who paid royalties were able to make their own mattresses stating, “mattresses from Sealy.” Haynes sold rights to various parties whose factories were operated in St Louis, Birmingham, Houston, Atlanta and Baltimore; however, in no instance did he ever sell the right to use the trade name “Haynes.” All the products from the Sealy factory were labeled, advertised and sold under the Haynes name for his lifetime.

The Sealy Mattress Company adopted the trade name of “Sealy” after it purchased the old Daniel Haynes patents and equipment. This corporation, which purchased the Haynes business in 1906, moved it to Dallas, then subsequently to Sugarland. It never used the trade name “Haynes” nor had it at any time since they didn’t have right to. In 1909, Haynes Mattress Factory was organized by Daniel Haynes, the inventor, and his son R. H. Haynes. It was built and still stands today at 109 North Hardeman Street. The son had left school in 1906 and was thereafter actively and intimately associated with every step in the development of the industry. He became manager in 1909. Together, father and son built a modern factory

equipped with the newly invented machines. The machines were efficient and superior to any others in the manufacturing of the “tuftless” cotton mattress.

The selection of the superior grade cotton was most important. Haynes had an arrangement with the local cotton buyer, whereby he culled out the average and inferior grades and bought only the higher grades, paying a premium for this privilege.

The factory processed 70 mattresses daily. In “normal times” about 10 traveling salesmen were engaged in selling them in the furniture trade in about 30 states. Employment was approximately 20 men and women.

Daniel Haynes died February 28, 1913, leaving the industry to his son, R. H. Haynes. He managed the industry until his death, at which time his wife acquired ownership.

In 1943 Harry Nowak, who later became mayor of Sealy, joined in the operation of the industry with Mrs. Haynes. Nowak continued to operate the factory until July of 1957 when J. J. Duncan took over ownership. Duncan owned and managed the factory for only one year, selling in 1958 to Mr. and Mrs. Herman Schulke.

Mr. and Mrs. Schulke operated the business and continued to produce the same fine quality mattress that Daniel Haynes originated. Much of the original equipment was used in making the non-tufted and later tufted “Haynes” mattresses. Under their management, “The original Haynes Mattress” was produced and sold in the showroom until 1975.

1949 Sealy Incorporates

1900 Hurricane of 1900

1901 Cane Belt Railroad completes 3rd road 1914 Leidertafel Hall Built

1922 Sealy American Legion Organized

1927 Sealy Chamber of Commerce Organized 1928 Sealy Boy Scouts Organized

1930 Sealy Volunteer Fire Department Organized

WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER AND FALL: Our seasons are based on food more than the weather!

Winter is the perfect time to get your fill of comfort food. Spring brings crawfish boils and fish fries. Summer sensations revolve around a grill and cook-offs, while fall has us craving Chili and Tamales. Regardless of the season, you will always find a great Steak Night or Mexican Restaurant.

DAY 1

Get your energy for the Day at Sealy Truck Stop. With home cooking and great recipes, it’s a favorite among local first responders! Head downtown to get a coffee at Sealy Flower Station. Yes, you read that right! The smell of the fresh plants and the cozy décor make you feel like you’re enjoying that sip in the country. Just on the opposite corner you’ll find our legendary Saddleback Saloon. Grab your favorite beer or drink in the historic building where Clint Black filmed his first video. If it’s nice outside, enjoy their outdoor patio area with all the character it holds. For dinner, you will find Mesquite Mexican Grill just a block away. As a favorite among locals, it surely will not disappoint.

With our strong Czech heritage, starting your day with a kolache is a ‘must do’! Swing in to any of our local bakeries to knock that off your bucket list. Beer drinkers will want to want to drive up to Huff Brewery, where they believe a cold beer at the end of the day is best shared with those around us who deserve a beer themselves. Wine drinker? Cast Iron Winery is set in the country just outside of Sealy. Known for their variety of red wines, they also offer whites, rose and sweets. Sit on the back patio, throw some bags, watch chickens, start a fire and enjoy the sunset while swirling a glass of wine. After, you’ll be ready for Surf and Turf! River Hills Steak and Seafood is right on the way to the hotel. It’s a great place to stop for your dinner.

DAY 3

Ready for Brunch? Tony’s Family Restaurant is where the staff cooks up meals that taste as if they were prepared in your grandma’s kitchen. All their desserts are homemade and their cakes are made from scratch, so you may as well order that to go! Head downtown to explore our shops and walk off your full stomach. For a break, head to Wolf Pack Bar and Grill to grab a cold one. This family run business is set in our old historic grain mill. With the beautiful restoration incorporating our history, you will definitely know you’re in Texas. Stay a little longer to enjoy music on the front patio to wind down your day.

Arts, culture and history

SEALY HAS A LONG AND RICH HISTORY that both history buffs and curious folk of all ages will enjoy. Sealy was founded in 1879 on the route of the Gulf, Colorado, Sante Fe Railroad and has been booming ever since! From local history, museums and historic downtown, Sealy is truly where the Colonial Capitol of Texas survived.

DAY 1

Start your trip by heading to our Historic Downtown area to grab a bite to eat, shop and explore. All of our downtown eateries are located in historical buildings that have been wonderfully preserved and gracefully converted to a restaurant. No matter which one you choose, you will definitely feel that Texas vibe! From there, stroll through the streets and alley ways to get your best Instagram photo in front of all our murals. Finish the day off with a little retail therapy and get a drink to wind down the day.

Stephen

Along the Brazos River lies 473 acres of scenic moss-draped hardwood forests and towering cottonwood bottomlands. This park is home to pileated woodpecker, white-tailed deer, barred owl, and many unique ecosystems. Come ready to camp or visit for the day. Go birding, hiking, or biking on our nature trails. The park has 30-amp full hookup RV sites, water-only tent sites; primitive tent sites; screened shelters; a limited-service cabin; and group facilities available.

Locals love: Arts, culture and history

DAY 2

Head just 5 miles northeast of Sealy to San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site. Stephen F. Austin established San Felipe de Austin in 1823 as the Colonial Capital of Texas. From 1823 to 1836, this was the social, economic, and political center of the Anglo colonies in Texas. Explore the historical buildings and museum with several exhibiting objects such as a field desk that belonged to Stephen F. Austin, a printing press and many artifacts recovered during archeological excavations. In addition, custom murals and a variety of multimedia interactive will help you learn about the towns’ history. After grabbing some lunch in Sealy, head south of town to explore Attwater Prairie-Chicken Wildlife Refuge. Established to protect the critically endangered Attwater’s PrairieChicken, it one of the largest remnants of native coastal prairie remaining in southeast Texas. With both walking and self-driving tours, you are able to experience the beauty and tranquility of the tall-grass prairie at the comfort level you prefer.

DAY 3

In 1879 Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway Company agent George Sealy purchased 11,635 acres from the township of San Felipe de Austin for the purpose of establishing a railroad depot. Our driving / walking tour will take you to all the historical buildings around town that have held the test of time for over a century. See the building where the mattress was invented (later becoming Sealy Mattress), the first jail in town, an old caboose and many other historic homes and businesses. Take breaks throughout the day by dining and shopping at the locally owned restaurants and shops along the route.

“I love that the Sealy historical Park has a collection of some of out earliest structures, including the first Sealy Jail built in 1887 & the Hackbarth House built in 1880.”— Nancy Naron, Sealy Area Historical Society

DAY 1

Grab your Frisbees and head to Jacqueline A. Cryan Memorial Park. Our 18 – hole Disc Golf Course is laid out so it’s easy to navigate and friendly for kids and novices. Once you have completed the course, you may want to cool off and relax. Bring your swimsuits and take a dip in the pool afterward. For those with a skate board, you can show off your best tricks at the skate park.

DAY 3

“The hidden jewel of golf in Texas” is Stephen F. Austin Golf Club. Nature lovers and golfers who take particular pride in spending time outdoors will love this course. Loaded with wildlife and featuring fairways that weave through native pecan trees, Stephen F. is a beautiful 18-hole course set near the Brazos River. Put your driver in the bag and play for accuracy. The course is under 5,900 yards from the back tees, and on many holes even drives that find the fairway will not result in a clear view of the green. Only one par 5 is over 500 yards, and most of the par 4s are under 400 yards. Bollinger Creek runs throughout the course and forces carries on four occasions. The back nine, built in 1970, is a little more open than the front nine.

DAY 2

Head just 5 miles northeast of Sealy to Stephen F. Austin State Park. Located on the banks of the Brazos River, you can explore their trails, bring a picnic and look for wildlife. A 5-mile hiking and biking trail wanders along the river bank under tall hardwood trees and through the upland swamp. Find solitude and beauty in a river-bottom forest along the 12-mile nature trail. Watch closely, nature reveals hidden treasures at every turn.

SEALY IS THE PERFECT SPOT FOR A MULTI-GENERATIONAL TRIP or an affordable getaway with the kids! Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, we have a family friendly celebration for you to join in on! While you’re here, you can enjoy our family friendly wineries and restaurants with a little shopping in between.

WINTER

December in Sealy is all about the holidays and lasts for the entire month. The first weekend begins with Fantasy of Lights. Feeling athletic? Walk, jog or run in the Jingle Bell 5K! Last minute Holiday shopping? Abe & Irene Lavine Family Park will be lined with street vendors. Find those perfect locally, handmade gifts you need for Christmas. So your kids are not into shopping? The snow-machine is making that perfect sledding hill for them to slip and slide! Once the sun goes down, the real show is ready to start. Our lighted parade with Santa as our special guest will put a twinkle in everyone’s eye! If you can’t make it that weekend, Sealy Historical Society will have their O’ Christmas Tree Celebration the second and third weekend of December. Our historic park will be filled with Tree’s where you will feel like it’s Christmas in the 1800’s. With a weekend of Dinners and entertainment, you will fill your hearts delight.

Faith Academy Bellville

● A place of love and learning where God’s truth and Biblical worldview drive instruction.

● A learning environment where students and staff strive to put God first, demonstrate ready obedience, respect for others, and diligence to duty throughout all activities.

● A school family that is growing and considering new admissions for next year.

Come Experience the Difference it makes when God’s Truth is the foundation of your child’s school day….everyday.

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

-Galatians 2:20

Locals love:

SPRING

Spring time is when you want to come to Sealy to live like a local! Crawfish Season will be in full swing and you will find a boil nearly every weekend. Not everyone is a crawfish fan so they can enjoy the shrimp boils and fish fry’s while they are here. If you enjoy the Arts and/or Music, make sure you come out for Battle for The Arts (BoTA) in April. This weekend long celebration hosts a film festival, mural competition, battle of the bands and vendor show. The Sealy Historical Society hosts Springfest as well where you can enjoy music, shop the Bluebonnets Master Gardeners Plant Sale as your kids enjoy the activities set up just for them. Texas Select from Forged in Fire has their cutlery competition at the Austin County Fairgrounds where you can meet the artists and shop, shop, shop!

SUMMER

Nearly every town and city has their own city wide garage sale, but can they say theirs stretches for 90 miles? 90 Miles on 90 Garage Sale is where you find all those treasures you seek, from baby clothes to furniture to antiques. The best deals start early, so stay in Sealy the night before it starts to be the 1st on out, then make your way west along the route. If you prefer the celebrations, Sealybration is the festival for you! The Saturday evening bands have never disappointed the audience.

FALL

October is always Spooktacular in Sealy! Our annual Ghost Tour is family friendly as you ride the hay wagon to some of our historical buildings. Our Characters tell stories about life in the late 1800’s as you take in the character of our old historic town. Boo-Bash is an evening of trick or treating on our Historic Main Street. Your kids will load up with candy and enjoy the train rides while you listen to the music and know they are safe. San Felip de Austin State Historic Park hosts Archeology Month at the park. See the artifacts on display from the original Colonial Capital of Texas and celebrate the Father of Texas.

“I love living in a community that is as tight knit as Sealy. The people are so kind in caring, it is a wonderful place to raise my children. The festivals and annual events make it fun for the whole family.” — Amanda Luksha, The Sealy News

Country cruise

ARE YOU READY TO GET OUT OF TOWN FOR A ROAD TRIP?

Fire up the bike, put down the top, pull out your classic vehicle and come tour with us! Check in to your hotel Friday evening and head downtown for some dinner and music. Start out with a good breakfast Saturday morning before getting on the road. An easy 100 to 120 mile trip will take you through winding country roads with hills and trees that make you feel far away from home. If the season is right, you will find our beautiful Bluebonnets along the route! With great stops along the way so you can stretch your legs and grab a bite, come discover why so many make Sealy their hub when ready for a road trip.

PIVO’S ICE HOUSE

Sealy Historical Buildings Tour

COME SEE THE HISTORICAL BUILDINGS OF SEALY! Whether you want to walk, bike or drive, our beautifully preserved buildings will take you back in time. Start the day getting a good breakfast at Tony’s Family Restaurant, which use to be Club Rendezvous. Break up the trip by stopping at locally owned shops to find one of a kind trinkets, accessories or attire. Wet you whistle and get a snack at one of our bars or restaurants. You’ll finish the tour at Sealy American Legion, who just celebrated their Centennial in 2022. If your timing is right, you may be able to catch a fish fry, dance or bingo before you head back to the hotel.

Sealy Knights of Columbus Hall

LOCATION: 1390 HWY 90 WEST, SEALY, TX

The Sealy Council No. 3313, Knights of Columbus was instituted on June 4, 1950 with eighty-four members from the area churches of Sts. Peter & Paul of Bellville, St. Mary’s of Frydek, St. Bart’s of Katy and Immaculate Conception of Sealy. Katy and Bellville have since formed their own group. After the death of its first Chaplain, Father Crann (1953), the name was changed to Father Crann Council No 3313.

Club Rendezvous

FORMER LOCATION: 1629 MEYER (HWY 36 SOUTH), SEALY, TX

The year was 1936 and State Highway 36 was completed through Sealy; some months later Leslie and Nettie Eber opened their very popular club on September 10, 1937. Tom Kveton was the builder and at that time the location was considered to be the outskirts of Sealy. When the new club needed a name, many local citizens offered the Ebers various ideas, but their final choice was the “Club Rendezvous,” a name suggested by Helen Powers. The 1939 Sealy News stated “it was Mr. Eber’s purpose to establish a nice, convenient eating and dancing spot for people of this section and that he rigidly enforced his rule of not allowing stags to enjoy the conveniences of the Club Room without being in a party.”

In December, 1939, the very brilliant neon lighting was added and by W.W II, the building was enlarged and it became the gathering and dance place of the area. It was during the 1970’s that the Ebers retired. The club then changed tenants several times before being sold and operated as a restaurant until 1993 when it was replace by what is now Tony’s Family Restaurant.

In 1959 a charter was obtained by the membership of the Father Crann Council under the name of “The Sealy Columbus Club”. By 1960 they purchased ten acres of land on the west side of the city at Highway 90 and Shadowlake Drive. In the spring of 1968, construction began on a 100’ x 75’ metallic building (7,500 Sq. ft.) and was completed for the May 25, 1969 dedication. The building was paneled and airconditioned throughout the main hall, restrooms, bar and kitchen. An outside covered barbeque pit was also constructed at that time. Some years later the cement dance floor was covered with an oak floor.

The needs of the parish and community used this building to capacity and by 1985 plans were made to enlarge the hall. More than doubling the size of it, the new 8,100 sq. ft. addition enlarged the main dance hall area and a meeting room, office and additional restrooms were added. The existing baseball field was improved and lighted at this time. In 1992 a large covered cemented area was added to the grounds for additional outside activities.

The knights of Columbus Hall is considered to be one of the largest, most modern facilities in the county and is used for many dances, wedding receptions, reunions, polka fests and area fund-raising events.

Sealy Historical Buildings Tour

The Old Ward House

LOCATION: 613 WARD STREET, SEALY, TX

Mr. and Mrs. R. M. Ward had this house built in 1893 by Contractors Adolph Brune and Edmund A. Stidham. Originally it was a 3-story home with a look-out tower on the 3rd level so they could see who was riding into town. The third story was blown off during the great storm of 1900 and Mr. Ward never replaced it. Later, it was replaced in during historical restoration.

At the time it stood in the middle of an acre of ground and called, “The Showplace of Sealy.” This old house has 10 rooms and 3 bathrooms with 14‘ ceilings. The bay windows have shutters which were imported from England. The front door has colored glass and hand carving; with knobs on the doors unlike anyone had ever seen. One of the fireplaces had birds on the tile while the other two have different designs. Most people would remark about the staircase, which follows the wall around without any support underneath it.

Sealy Opera House

LOCATION: 602 – 616 HARDEMAN STREET, SEALY, TX

A spacious hall was erected by the German Woman’s Club (Frohsinn) in the year 1897. This hall, located at the corner of Hardeman and Sixth Streets, was called Sealy’s Opera House and was the social gathering place for the people of Sealy. It boasted lovely sets, a pretty roll-up curtain with ads in abundance encircling a scene, kerosene burning lamps, a floor of narrow hardwood boards, crossventilation, nice chairs and benches along the walls. The floor was used for dancing and skating and the Austin County Fair was held in the Opera House several times.

The use of the hall was enjoyed only a short while before a great storm destroyed the building, leaving only the roof visible on a rubble of wood. It was not rebuilt. Later, the home across the street from the Opera House (built in the late 1800’s) was moved to its current location at 616 Hardeman Street. Eventually, two additional homes were built on the property, which shows you how large the Opera House was.

The 1989 Sealy Weekly News stated that Sealy had three lodge halls: The Sons of Hermann, a German Singing Club (Liedertafel) and the German Woman’s Club (Opera House).

Dr. James West Bostick

MARKER NO. 469

LOCATION: 319 HARDEMAN STREET, SEALY, TX

James W Bostick was one of Stephen F Austin’s ‘Old 300” settlers and served in the Confederate Army for 4 years. Later he became a Doctor and married Rebecca Taylor, daughter of a prominent East Texas family. They moved to Sealy in 1885, helped found St. John’s Episcopal Church and built their home in 1895. One of Sealy’s first Doctors, he also owned and operated a drugstore.

Sealy Historical Buildings Tour

Haynes-Felcman Home

MARKER NO. 11701

LOCATION: 305 HARDEMAN, SEALY, TX

Built in 1901-1902 for H. Schumacher, it was purchased in 1906 by Richard H. Haynes (1875 –1942) who, with his father, founded the Haynes (Sealy) Mattress Company in 1909. Local confectionery store owner F. J. Felcman bought the property in 1927 and added on to the rear in 1929. It remained in his family until 1995. The structure is a fine example of a Queen Ann Residence with a projecting front gable decorated with wood shingles, stained glass and jigsawn brackets. The front porch also displays late Victorian details including wood balusters and frieze.

City of Sealy

MARKER NO. 4623

LOCATION: 415 MAIN STREET, SEALY, TX

Founded in 1879 on the route of the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railroad, Sealy was named or Galveston Businessman and Railroad President George Sealy (1835 – 1901). By January 1880, a depot was established here and both freight service and passenger service were inaugurated. Sealy became a main division point between Galveston and Temple while the railroad was the town’s principal employer.

In Addition to the depot, Sealy was the site of a Roundhouse, Wooden Turntable and Machine Shops. By August 1880, two passenger trains and two freight trains passed through the town daily. Sealy soon boasted numerous homes and businesses, including hotels, retail stores, factories, cotton gins and grist mills. The Citizens organized a Public School and a number of Churches. By 1899, the Santa Fe Railroad division point was moved to Bellville, causing Sealy’s economic base to shift to agriculture. The Missouri, Kansas and Texas (Katy) Railroad had built a line through here in 1892 and the Cane Belt Railroad, linking Sealy to Matagorda, began operations in 1903. Diversified businesses kept the town thriving and in 1949 the citizens of Sealy voted to incorporate.

Haynes Mattress Factory

MARKER NO. 2411

LOCATION: 109 N. HARDEMAN, SEALY, TX

Daniel Haynes (1828 – 1913) came to the new railroad town of Sealy in 1881. In 1885, he invented a process and a machine to manufacture a felted cotton, non-tufted mattress. Trademarked under the Haynes name, the mattresses were sold throughout the country and soon became associated with the name Sealy. In 1906 Haynes sold his patents to another company, which adopted the name Sealy. Haynes opened a new mattress factory at this site in 1909. It remained in operation after his death, maintaining its reputation as one of Sealy’s primary industries until 1976.

Sealy Historical Buildings Tour

Sealy Cemetery

MARKER NO. 4624

LOCATION: 833 MAIN STREET, SEALY, TX

In 1879, Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railway Company Agent George Sealy purchased 11,635 acres at this location from the township of San Felipe De Austin for the purpose of establishing a Railroad Depot. The Village of Sealy soon developed around the Depot and on July 5, 1883, it recorded its first burial here, that of the infant Annie Fowlkes.

Families that settled in Sealy purchased Cemetery Plots directly from the Railroad until the company donated the land to Cemetery Trustees – C.H. Ruff, R.P. Josey and John Hackbarth in 1887.

The Sealy Cemetery Association was founded sometime prior to 1898 and officially chartered in 1924. The ladies of the Cemetery Society, organized in 1904, helped the Association cultivate community support to upgrade and maintain the cemetery. Two notable Society Members, Mrs. J.W (Vera) Ripple and Mrs. Paul (Mahala) Hackbarth, helped organize a Christmas Bazaar Fund-Raising Event in the 1930’s that developed into an important Annual Social Affair in the Community. Among the more than 2,400 grave sites are those of many of Sealy’s early residents. The cemetery boasts a variety of gravestones and statuary, as well as two Mausoleums.

Sealy Historic Park

LOCATION: 211 E MAIN STREET, SEALY, TX

Liedertafel

MARKER NO. 11967

LOCATION: 116 LUX ROAD, SEALY, TX

Sealy’s German Immigrants were famous for their love of music. A group of men, some of them Sealy’s pioneer settlers, had formed a singing society called Liedertafel by 1899. They met primarily in the home of Ferdinand Lux. Lux and Fritz Kinkler, Jr. gave land for the establishment of a permanent building in 1912 – 1914. One of a number of round frame dance halls built in German communities in Texas, this structure was erected beginning in 1914. The eight-sided hall was built from materials purchased from the F. W. Hackbarth Lumber Company. There were about 19 singing society members in 1914, and they hosted many concerts, festivals and dances for the community. The Liedertafel Hall was a popular gathering place for special events for many years. Other organizations, Lodges and Churches used the grounds and hall for their own celebrations as well. In 1934, the Sealy Volunteer Fire Department began holding its Annual “Firemen’s Frolic” Fundraiser at the hall. By 1944, the building was in need of repair and the Singing Society Members were aging. Stockholders voted to sell the hall and land to the Fire Department, which raised funds to purchase and renovate the structure. It became known as the “Firemen’s Hall”. In June 1945, the new “Fireman’s Park” opened with a celebration. The following year, the Houston Post reported 5,000 attendees at the ”Firemen’s Frolic”. The Firemen donated the hall to a local Historical Society in 1995 and renovations began that year.

Designed to preserve local, regional and State history, Sealy Historical Society continues to add and expand our historic park. The Santa Fe Museum building originally housed the Sealy News which was located on Main Street. The newspaper was known as the Sealy Weekly News at that time. Originally constructed in 1900, it was moved to its current location in 1929 when the Krampitz family built the Texas Theatre at the original site of the building.

John and Louis Hackbarth were two of Sealy’s earliest residents. They built a two-story brick mercantile store on the northwest corner of Main and Front Streets in 1880. Behind it, they built the small house that is currently located within the Sealy Historical Park and placed it behind their store. This is where they lived the first few years they were in Sealy.

Sealy’s first jail (known as calabooses) was built in 1884. In 1887 the building partially burned. The story goes that a “friend” was trying to help a man escape from the jail by setting fire to it. The jail was reconstructed using some of the original boards. Scorched boards are still seen on the interior.

The 1927 Way Car (caboose) is one of the first 150 steel cabooses manufactured for the Atchison, Topeka &b Santa Fe Railroad. The interior and exterior of the caboose are nearly original, including the original window shades. The only additions and changes are the addition of a toilet and electricity as well as replacement of the wooden tool/storage box beneath the caboose and top rails on the cupola. These changes were made by the railway company.

Sealy Historical Buildings Tour

Hackbarth Building

MARKER NO. 17788

LOCATION: 111 & 113 MAIN STREET, SEALY, TX

German natives F. W. (Fritz) and Carolyn (Krampitz) Hackbarth arrived in Galveston in 1846 with their two sons. They settled in Austin County, where Fritz farmed and ranched, and the couple had four more children, including F. W. Hackbarth, Jr. (born 1849). He was a carpenter, who in 1885 opened the Hackbarth Lumber Company, one of Sealy’s earliest enterprises. He was joined in the business by his sons Paul, Robert and John. The lumberyard supplied materials for the early growth and development of Sealy, expanding to include a brick plant and then concrete masonry production. This material was used in commercial buildings completed for F. W. Hackbarth and John Hackbarth in 1907, other businesses including an ice house, and the Paul and Mahala Hackbarth house in 1911. F. W. Hackbarth, Jr. owned a block of frame buildings on Main Street, which he razed in 1907 to erect a new concrete block structure. The building features load-bearing masonry blocks produced at their factory, a canopy with iron column supports, an angled corner, and a cast iron façade storefront ordered from George L. Mesker and Company of Evansville, Indiana. Citizens State Bank formed in 1907 and occupied part of Hackbarth’s new building, with capital of $25,000, assets of $46,000, R. A. Engelking as president, and John Hackbarth on the board of directors. The bank outgrew its location by 1917. The building had many commercial uses, notably Fred Frimel’s Jewelry and Hackbarth General Store and Grocery. During World War II, this was the site of a Red Cross Office and War Bond Sales. The Sealy News was printed here from 1942 until the late 1990s. The building exhibits significant craftsmanship and recounts noteworthy history and commerce of the community.

Preibisch Building

MARKER NO. 12526

LOCATION: 207 MAIN STREET, SEALY, TX

German Immigrant Adolph H. Preibisch and his wife, Emilie, came to Austin County in 1860. After the town of Sealy developed along the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railroad, the Preibisches bought property in the new railroad town. In 1885, Adolph and Emilie Preibisch purchased these lots and hired Brick Mason John Colleton to construct this commercial building for them in 1886 – 1887. Colleton’s brickyard in nearby Bellville, where he fired bricks from Brazos River clay, was the source of material for many of Sealy’s buildings. Sited on a prominent corner lot, the Preibisch Building first housed Preibischs’ own store, in which he sold household and kitchen furniture, window shades, rugs, carpets and other manner of household goods. As was the practice with many early furniture dealers, Preibisch also made and sold Funeral Caskets from his store. The family continued to run the store after Adolph died in 1899 and their son W. W. Preibisch took over the business after Emilie’s death in 1905. Other tenants of the Preibisch Building included a General Merchandise Store, Grocery Store, Jewelry and Gift Shop. As a Saloon/Pool Hall Known as ‘My Place’, the Preibisch Building served as a setting for several advertisements and motion picture films. The building remained in the Preibisch Family until 1946. The one-part brick commercial structure, which features arched window and door openings and corbelled brickwork, is significant for its association with the early commercial development of Sealy and remains an important part of Sealy’s architectural heritage.

Sealy Historical Buildings Tour

Trinity Lutheran Church

MARKER NO. 17605

LOCATION: 402 ATCHISON, SEALY, TX

After preaching his first sermon in Sealy on February 11, 1883, Lutheran Missionary Reverend John Trinklein organized the Trinity Lutheran Church Congregation on October 31 of that same year. In the beginning, most of the congregation was of German Heritage and many early church records were written in German. The congregation dedicated its first church structure, a 24 by 34-foot frame building, on July 25, 1886. In March 1891, the congregation bought the church site from the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railway Company. Repaired after sustaining serious damage in the great storm of 1900, the original church building remained in use until it was replaced in 1940 by a larger 60 by 30-foot building. The current brick-clad sanctuary dates from 1963, when it and five new Sunday school rooms were dedicated. From 1883 to 2012, twenty-five pastors, including Rev. Trinklein, served the congregation. During its first dozen years, the church shared Pastors Paul G. Heckel (1890-93) and P.A. Wenzel (18931895) with the Lutheran congregations in Cat Spring and Pattison. In 1895, Pastor A.R. Roglitz became the church’s first pastor to live in Sealy. Over the years, the church campus grew to meet the congregation’s needs. In September 1913, a 20 by 30-foot Sunday school building, located next to the parsonage, was dedicated. The campus further expanded with additions to the Sunday school building in 1949 and construction of a new parish hall in 1955. For decades, the church supported activities such as the ladies aid society, organized in April 1895, and the annual Bar-B-Que that started in 1963 to raise funds for local charities.

Saint John’s Episcopal Church

MARKER NO. 4451

LOCATION: 515 MEYER STREET (HWY 36 SOUTH), SEALY, TX

This congregation was organized in 1885, six years after the railroad town of Sealy was founded. Among the church’s early supporters was railroad official George Sealy, for whom the town was named and who served on the Missionary Board of the Episcopal Dioceses of Texas. The Congregation’s first building, erected two blocks north of this site in 1889, was destroyed in the 1900 Hurricane. A new church structure was built at this site in 1920. Throughout its history, Saint John’s Church has served the community with worship, education and outreach programs.

Paul & Mahala Hackbarth House

MARKER NO. 2326

LOCATION: 325 6TH STREET, SEALY

Completed in 1922 for Civic Leaders Paul and Mahala Hackbarth, this concrete block house is an unusual example of vernacular architecture. Prominent features include a wraparound porch, ionic columns on piers and large wood sash windows. The Hackbarth Lumber Company, one of the earliest businesses in Sealy, promoted the use of concrete blocks for local buildings and this house is a fine example of that construction method.

Sealy Historical Buildings Tour

Sealy American Legion Hall Post 442

LOCATION: 1630 MEYER STREET (HWY 36 SOUTH), SEALY, TX

As early as 1922, a number of ex-servicemen banded together, calling themselves Legionnaires. This action as recognized by the Department Headquarters in Austin and a Department Chaplain was directed to Sealy to help organize a post. It was January 13, 1930 when Chaplain Clark called a meeting at the Central Power & Light Company office, and by January 23, 1930 a permanent charter for the Sealy American Legion Post #442 was granted. L. L. Bender served as the first commander, holding that position for some eight years. The post was incorporated on May 29, 1939.

The Legionnaires used the “Sealy Liedertafel Hall” for their many activities and celebrations prior to 1934, at which time they purchased property from Ed Beckmann on what was called the outskirts of town. Though the cooperation of the membership and assistance of local citizens, they were able to build a hall. The lumber and materials were furnished by Meloneck Lumber Company and was constructed by local builder, Albert Thomsen and helpers. This hall was used for meetings, dancing and other community affairs, even as a skating rink for a period of time. Some two years after completion, State Highway 36 was completed past this point, thus linking various other communities to this area.

Several years later, the group was no longer able to maintain the hall and it was closed. After W.W. II, young veterans from the years of 1945-46 started a process to reopen the hall and make improvements. Air-conditioning was added and a kitchen and dining room were built in 1953. Cement picnic tables and a game stand were added; however, the game stand was soon enclosed and used as a meeting room and for small socials. Renovations of the hall inside began in 1979 by adding acoustic ceiling tile, new lighting, paneling, bar facilities and a wheel chair ramp.

NOW LEASING

HARVEST MOON APARTMENTS

This boutique luxury apartment community conveniently located off Highway 90 offers spacious apartments in the heart of Sealy. Each home features 9 ft ceilings, W/D hookups & private patios. This community offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. When you’re ready to unwind after an exciting day, come home to your bright, open, and brand new apartment, fully equipped with all the comforts of home. Contact us today to schedule a tour !

San Felipe

STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE PARK (979) 885-3613

www.tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ stephen -f-austin Experience the nature of Texas’ first colony. Nestled on the banks of the Brazos River, the park provides the opportunity to get u close to nature. Located 30 minutes from the outskirts of Houston, this quiet and peaceful park is a nice escape from busy city life. Come out for the day and enjoy six miles of hiking and biking trails, a picnic area and geocaching. Or spend the night, with a wide variety of campsites, including pull-through 30 amp full hook-up RV sites and tent campsites. There is also a group campsite for up to 60 people, screened shelters, and a rustic ADA-accessible mini-cabin with a cedar interior. The park also offers a screened dining hall with outdoor tent camping area and other group facilities.

SAN FELIPE

DE AUSTIN

STATE HISTORIC SITE (979) 885-2181

www.thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/san-

felipe-de-austin-state-historic-site Commemorating the location where, in 1823, Stephen F. Austin established a headquarters for the colony in Mexican Texas, San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site and new museum share the stories of early settlers in this region. Today, visitors can walk in the footsteps of these early pioneers at what was the social, economic, and political center of American emigration to Texas before independence. San Felipe de Austin didn’t survive the war for Texas independence – it was burned by its own residents as they evacuated during the Runaway Scrape in 1836.

Sealy

B&PW PARK (979) 885-3511

This park is located at 1008 Main Street. The parks amenities include T-ball, baseball fields (3), softball field, playground equipment, basketball court, tennis courts, fishing lake, walking, and jogging track, pavilion, covered picnic tables, soccer field and restrooms.

ABE & IRENE LEVINE

FAMILY PARK (979) 885-3511

Located at 406 Main Street (centrally located, across the street from city hall). The amenities include playground equipment, gazebo, pavilion, sand volleyball courts, splash pad, covered picnic tables and restrooms.

JACQUELINE

A. CRYAN

MEMORIAL PARK (979) 885-3511

This park is located at 1500 Miller Road. The amenities include swimming pool, skate park, walk/jogging trail, 18-hole disc golf course, picnic areas and fishing pond.

JOE SCRANTON JR. PARK (979) 885-3511

This park is located at 96 Daniels Street (east area of town) The amenities include baseball/softball field, playground equipment, basketball court, barbecue pits, covered picnic tables and restrooms.

MARK FREDERICK MEMORIAL PARK (979) 885-3511

Located at 131 Brookside Lane (southwest area of town). The amenities include basketball court, playground equipment and covered picnic tables.

885-3613

2370 Hwy 36 South Sealy, TX 77474 Front Desk: 979-877-0700 Fax: 979-877-0744

COUNTRYSIDE

2021 Hwy 36 South Sealy, TX 77474 (979) 885-7407 AMERICAS

2107 Hwy 36 S Sealy, TX 77474 (979) 885-3707

5383 SE, I-10 Sealy, TX 77474 (979) 987-6111 COUSHATTE

4029 Clay Ranch Lane Bellville, TX 77418 (979) 865-5897

SEALY RV PARK 223 Moody St Sealy, TX 77474 (979) 398-9972

Venues and meeting spaces

GET AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE of the city and meet without the distractions to spark innovation. Our flexible meeting spaces and outdoor activities make the decision to host your next group here easy. Let us help you incorporate team building experiences for productive business outcomes.

Meetings

LEIDERTAFEL HALL 116 Lux Road ci.sealy.tx.us/page/liedertafel

WOLFPACK BAR AND GILL 211 W Front Street www.wolfpackbarandgrill.com

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 1310 US-90 https://www.sealykofc.org

W E HILL COMMUNITY CENTER 1000 Main Street www.ci.sealy.tx.us/page/hill_center

EMERY’S BUFFALO CREEK 10827 TX-36 Bellville, TX 77418 http://emerybuffalocreek.com

AMERICAN LEGION POST 442 1630 Meyer Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-7271

BEGIN YOUR LIFE TOGETHER IN A PLACE AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE LOVE YOU SHARE. Our outdoor, natural spaces and rustic indoor venues are ready and waiting. The country landscape coupled with our small town hospitality makes this the perfect place for your special day.

EMERY’S BUFFALO CREEK 10827 TX-36 Bellville, TX 77418 979-865-0702 Emerysbuffalocreek.com

THE VINE 25642 Bernard Road New Ulm, TX 78950 713-553-9797 www.thevinetx.com

THE SPRINGS EVENT VENUE 4999 Buller Road Brookshire, TX 77423 832-547-3647 Springsvenue.com

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 1310 US-90 Leidertafel 116 Lux Road

COUNTRY OAKS WEDDING VENUE 5704 FM 1093 Wallis, TX 77485 www.countryoaksvenue.com

PETERS HALL 756 Trenckmann Road Sealy, TX 77474 281-898-1346

AMERICAN LEGION POST 442 1630 Meyer Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-7271

AMSLER HILLS WINERY 6226 FM 949 Sealy, TX 77474 979-472-0901 Anslerhillswinery.com anslerhillswinery@gmail.com

Cat Spring

ST. JOHN LUTHERAN CHURCH 480 Ross Street Cat Spring, TX 78933 979-865-5444

San Felipe

NEW PRAIRIE VIEW BAPTIST 4303 Sealy Road San Felipe, TX 77473 979-885-6836

NEW DAY DELIVERANCE CHURCH AT WILLOW RIVER FARM 4073 FM 3318 San Felipe, TX 77473 281-773-7566

SAN FELIPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 201 Vicaro Gueriro San Felipe, TX 77473 979-885-4003

ALL AROUND COWBOY CHURCH

5812 Crosstree Lane Sealy, TX 7774 979-885-1155

CHRISTIAN CITY FELLOWSHIP 5243 Highway 36 North Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-3113

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF SEALY 707 8th Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-3303

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 200 Atchison Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-2223

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SEALY 172 Selman Drive Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-3993

GRACE FELLOWSHIP

1115 Miller Road Sealy, TX 77474 281-702-5602 or 281-702-5601

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH

608 5th Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-3868

LIFEBRIDGE COMMUNITY CHURCH

2162 FM 2187 Road Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-7270

NEW LIFE SANCTUARY UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH 129 2nd Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-627-7194

ST. JOHN EPISCOPAL CHURCH

515 Meyer Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-2359

ST. PAUL AME CHURCH 400 San Felipe Road Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-2419

THE ROM CHURCH 314 Fowlkes Street Sealy, TX 77474 832-841-0042

THE SHEPHERD’S WAY CHURCH 1225 Eagle Lake Road Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-1225

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH OF SEALY 402 Atchison Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-2211

Venues and activities

Reunions Group Trips

TAKE A STEP BACK IN TIME when you bring your family together. Our historic buildings and dance halls will inspire the stories of your past, present and future. We will help you plan activities where your guests can bond and spend time together in so many meaningful ways.

LEIDERTAFEL HALL

116 Lux Road ci.sealy.tx.us/page/liedertafel

EASTWOOD SUPPER CLUB 10745 FM 949 Cat Spring, TX 78933

WOLFPACK BAR AND GILL 211 W Front Street www.wolfpackbarandgrill.com

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 1310 US-90 www.sealykofc.org

PETERS HALL

756 Trenckmann Road 281-898-1346

EMERY’S BUFFALO CREEK

10827 TX-36 Bellville, TX 77418 emerybuffalocreek.com

AMERICAN LEGION

POST 442 1630 Meyer Street Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-7271

BRING SOME FUN AND EDUCATION TO YOUR GROUP TRIP in the safety of a small town. Our walkable mural tour and hands on learning museums will keep your group entertained. Have a group photo contest or treasure hunt to make learning a game.

• Murals

• Phenix Knives

• San Felipe de Austin Historic Site

WOLFPACK BAR AND GILL 211 W Front Street www.wolfpackbarandgrill.com

SADDLEBACK SALOON 207 Main Street 979-885-7346

SCOOPS AND SCHOLARS 401 Columbus Road facebook.com/scoopsandscholars

BERTALOTTO’S PIZZA 111-b Meyer Street 979-885-7000 www.bertalottospizza.com

THE DONUT PALACE 130 Meyer Street 979-885-3031 www.grazeandpeace.com

BETSY’S BAKERY & CAFÉ 125 2nd Street 979-627-9079

SEALY NUTRITION 203 Main Street, Suite 300 sealynutrition@gmail.com

MESQUITE MEXICAN GRILL 217 W Front St 979-627-7480

CHINA BUFFET 242 Moody Street 979-885-0999 www.chinabuffetofsealy.com

TONY’S FAMILY RESTAURANT 1629 Meyer Street 979-885-4140 Tonysfamilyrestaurant.com

CAZADORES MEXICAN RESTAURANT 241 Gebhardt Road 979-885-3211 www.cazadoresmexgrill.com

PIZZA HUT

251 Gebhardt Road 979-885-7447 www.pizzahut.com

HINZE’S BBQ & CATERING 2101 TX-36 S 979-885-7808 Hinzesbbq.com

JIN’S ASIAN CAFÉ 2220 TX-36 South 979-885-7666 Jinscafe2220.com

JACK IN THE BOX 2367 TX-36 S 979-484-7994

SUBWAY 2302 TX-36 979-885-0077

5168 I-10 Frontage Road 979-885-2401 6023 FM 3538 979-885-6277 www.subway.com

ERNESTO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 2350 TX-36 S 979-627-9201 ernestosmexicanrestaurant2.com

BURGER KING 2007 TX-36 S 979-885-6657 Burgerking.com

STARBUCKS 2013 Meyer Street 979-627-7999 Starbucks.com

WHATABURGER 2159 TX-36 South 979-885-4101 www.whataburger.com

CHICKEN EXPRESS 2211 TX-36 South 979-256-1438 Chickene.com

DOMINO’S PIZZA 2303 TX-36 South, Suite A 979-885-0100 Dominos.com

DAIRY QUEEN 1902 Meyer Street 979-885-3592 Dairyqueen.com

McDONALDS 1724 Meyer Street 979-885-4132 Mcdonalds.com

HARTZ CHICKEN BUFFET 1822 Meyer Street 979-885-6038 Hartz-chicken.com

SONIC DRIVE IN 1736 Meyer Street 979-885-6283 Sonicdrivein.com

HERRERA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1701 Hwy 90 West Suite B 979-627-9266

RIVER HILLS SEAFOOD & STEAK 6027 FM 3538 Road 979-627-9170 Riverhillsseafood.com

PRASEK’S HILLJE SMOKEHOUSE 2949 Interstate 10 Frontage Road 979-627-6027 Praseks.com

SEALY TRUCK STOP 5058 Interstate 10 Frontage Road 979-885-6636

DIPPIN DONUTS 418 US-90 979-885-7841

201 Fowlkes Street, Sealy, TX 77474 979-885-4787

Fortune Cobb Financial Advisor

Cameron Kershner Financial Advisor

Andy Krampitz CFP® Financial Advisor