Smithville is home to many amazing artists, from musicians to playwrights to poets to mosaic and mural artists. Above all, Smithville is welcoming for anyone who wants to explore and express their creativity. The mosaic featured on our cover is an homage to a native son of Smithville, Hannibal Lokumbe, who is a world-renowned composer and trumpet player. This mosaic shows Hannibal playing his trumpet and was lovingly created in mosaic tile by renowned mosaic artist Stefanie DiStefano (see more about Stefanie online at www.flamingoranch. com/home.html). See the mosaic in person at the corner of Loop 230 and Main Street in Smithville.
Hannibal Lokumbe is a talented, kind, creative artist who has given back to his community in countless
ways, including fostering young musicians and telling the story of Civil Rights through his music. His work often focuses on civil rights leaders, such as his album Dear Mrs. Parks, about the life of Rosa Parks along with other important works like God, Mississippi and a Man Called Evers about the slain civil rights activist Medgar Evers. More recently, in 2019, Mr. Lokumbe wrote Healing Tones, which has been characterized as a hymn to Philadelphia. He is currently working on The Jonah People: A Legacy of Struggle & Triumph, an opera commissioned by the Nashville Symphony.
In 2018, the Richard D. Latham Cultural District of Smithville recognized Hannibal Lokumbe as the Smithville, Texas Artist of the Year.
THAT MAKE SMITHVILLE SO GREAT! IT’Sthe people...
THAT MAKE SMITHVILLE SO GREAT!
By DEBBIE DENNY
Project Manager, Smithville 78957 Magazine
Debbie Denny Media Solutions
As an outsider looking in to Smithville, I find myself constantly saying and thinking to myself, “the people in Smithville are wonderful, so kind, so passionate about their community and they get things done.” Over the years I’ve been more and more involved with the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce and their events and I’m so impressed how various groups work so well together. City Manager Robert Tamble along with City Mayor Joanna Morgan, City of Smithville Economic Development Director, Jill Strube and April Daniels, Executive Director of the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce are at the helm of most major events, – always keeping what’s best for the people of Smithville in mind.
It’s amazing all the wonderful things going on in this small community, that’s why their slogan is “A BIG small town experience.”
I hope you enjoy the 2nd edition of the Smithville 78957 magazine, get to know more about the people and the places in Smithville, Texas.
Debbie Denny
Photo Credit:
Smithville... LOVES THEIR TRAINS
The History of the Railroad Museum
Let’s go back 135 years. It is 1886, the post office has been here for 10 years and there are three stores near what is now Colorado Drive between Burleson and Short. We live in small houses nearby. There are no streets, only wagon roads and cattle trails. A round trip to Bastrop will take about 12 hours.
Now let’s fast forward one year. The railroad has arrived. We can take the train to Bastrop which takes about 30 minutes. We can gather any supplies, visit with our relatives there and take the train back home. It is a pleasant trip that takes less than four hours total.
Who uses the train for travel? Everyone who lives here does.
The simple reason is that there were no automobiles in Bastrop County and even if there were, no roads for them to use. I think the first serious attempts at road building will be about 1910.
When the first train arrived on July 4, 1887, there was a small depot, very close to the new Smithville Visitor Center. People now flock to the station for transportation, supplies and fancy things. The city that you now know has been platted and the first sale of land happened on July 25th. Now there are streets, businesses begin to come and the original village slowly moves this way.
Murray Burleson had vision, and money. By the time the railroad arrived he had purchased almost all the land we know as Smithville. Our city was platted with wide streets anchored by a commercial
district. One of the very first purchasers of land was the Hill family at Main and Second.
In 1890 there were 616 people in Smithville & 1634 in Bastrop.
Then the magic happened, the new Katy terminal that opened September 1, 1894. It brought jobs for train crews, bridge and track maintenance people, and management. Smithville controlled the railroad from Waco to San Antonio to Galveston. A large
BY BRUCE BLALOCK
depot was built inside the Y. A YMCA was built to house new railroad workers.
Then on April 27, 1895, Smithville was incorporated as a city with the south boundary “to the center line of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railway of Texas railway.”
In 1900 there were 2577 people in Smithville & 2145 in Bastrop.
Ours would be the largest city in the county until 1960. The first bridge over the Colorado was built the same year.
There have been good times & bad times:
• December 25, 1905 the 11-year-old depot burned
• In 1906 the replacement depot building opened
• A boiler explosion of February 8, 1911, killed ten people outright (a)
• December 4, 1913 the largest flood on record took out the new bridge at Main Street.
• April 2, 1917, US enters World War I
� 1917 and 1918, Chicago White Sox play Smithville’s Katy team here (b)
� 1929, a new roundhouse and car shops were built with hedges and flowers lining the walkways (c)
• The Great Depression followed by World War II
• Freeways are built, roads improved.
• November 11, 1957, last passenger train passed through Smithville
• November 1967, the depot burned
(b) The March 1917 issue of the “M. K. & T. EMPLOYES’ MAGAZINE” details the accounts of the game where the Chicago White Sox won against The Katy Boys, 9-1
• August 12, 1988, Union Pacific bought the Katy
• June 15, 1991, the first chamber of commerce building opened, partially to eliminate a problem area for the city and to anchor the business district (d)
• January 19, 2019, the Chamber of Commerce and new Railroad Museum was dedicated
� 51 days later, March 24, 2019, the Chamber of Commerce, Railroad Museum burned by arsonist
Now, we enter a new chapter in the Smithville Chamber history.
that make Smithville so Great! IT’Sthe people...
Photos courtesy Smithville Historical Society
“Thank
“The Katy House is truly a gem with well appointed tasteful decor & lovely art pieces. I highly encourage others to stay in this lovely slice of heaven” ~ Expedia Review
Dedicating OUR NEW CHAMBER BUILDING
By APRIL DANIELS
The Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce dedicated our brand-new building, which we share with the Smithville Railroad Museum and Smithville Visitor Center, on Thursday, September 30th. It has been an amazing journey as we literally rose from the ashes of our former building. Early on the morning of March 24, 2019, an arsonist burned our previous building. He struck at the very heart of our community, destroying a hundred years’ worth of photographs and memorabilia on the Chamber side, and nearly two hundred years’ worth of artifacts in the Museum. The firefighters that
were there that night were made up of people from our community, many of whom had family pieces in the museum, their grandfathers’ uniforms, train memorabilia, and more, and they helped to carry out as many things as they could while also fighting the fire. Over the next two and a half years we worked to restore the saved items, replace the destroyed items, accept new museum pieces from area residents and plan the new building. Though we lost things, we did not lose the essence of who we are as a community.
In February 2021 we broke ground on the new building. We
watched with great excitement as Bennie Rooks and Jack Page managed the building process, Doug’s Plumbing and A&S Electric volunteered their time and labor, multiple sub-contractors discounted their prices and businesses donated furniture and signage to bring the building to life. As we put the finishing touches on the landscaping, Smitty’s Corner, bricks, plaques, and more, we worked to bring a beautiful new community building to life. We are so proud and humbled to be a part of a community that worked so hard to help us create a special place.
We cannot say thank you enough to City Manager Robert Tamble and Mayor Joanna Morgan for their patience, vision, positivity, and their focus. Board member Jill Strube kept us all in line and made sure we had a
clear plan. Angela Murphy and Kelly Holt of Organizational Bliss and Bruce Blalock, you three made the beautiful new museum a centerpiece of excellence. Dave Fehlker, you are a gem. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the museum.
Sallie Blalock and the entire Hill family and Adena Lewis, thank you for all you did to help us with fundraising. Union Pacific, thank you for your unwavering support and your generosity. There are too many people to thank in these remarks, but they know who they are. Thank you from all of us at the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce.
Come by and see us at 106 NE 1st Street, where we welcome visitors, greet local residents, and thank our lucky stars every day that we are part of such an amazing community.
Smitty HAS A NEW HOME.
Smitty is about to celebrate his 15th Anniversary December 2nd, 2021. At the recent ribbon cutting of the new Smithville Chamber building, a new courtyard was unveiled with Smitty standing tall and a sign that says ‘Smitty’s Corner’ dedicated to Adena Lewis, former Smithville Chamber Executive Director and the one that helped start Smitty’s journey in Smithville.
BY ADENA LEWIS
“It was the greatest community project I think I have ever been involved in. The City, Chamber and Community pulled together to make this happen. We were looking for a theme for Festival of Lights….Brenda Abbott came up with the gingerbread man idea and it grew to applying to Guinness and making the world’s largest gingerbread man cookie,” explained Adena Lewis.
“It was the greatest community project I think I have ever been involved in.”
“The Recreation Center kitchen looked like it had snowed because of the coat of flour that was ALL over the kitchen! One team worked for HOURS making the dough…..750 lbs of flour (donated by Pioneer Flour), 48 gallons of molasses, 72 dozen eggs (separated), 8 lbs each of the spices and a big batch of lard. It was quite a grocery order that Gina Bayer had to put together for us. Another team was putting together the “oven” made of cinder blocks
and charcoal (a dump truck full). Big cranes were used to lift the cookie pan – made by LCRA Rail Fleet Maintenance. Every step had to be documented by “officials” like Judge McDonald, Commissioner Clara Beckett and others. Buckets of dough were shuttled back and forth from the Rec Center to the Railroad Park. Ironically, the cookie sheet now stands in the general location where the cookie was baked.
The cookie was iced by a team from the Austin Culinary Institute. The whole cookie had to be lifted to a 30 degree angle – a Guinness requirement. This was supposed to happen at 5:30 pm…..but it was 10:30 pm when the cookie was complete and cool enough to be
lifted. There was a crowd of at least 1500 people cheering the team on. I know this because we sold 1500 - $1.00 slices of the worst tasting cookie ever made! Taste wasn’t a requirement for winning – being edible was. None of this would have been possible without the help of the City crew…..Jack Page and Tex Middlebrook and many others.
As silly as a project as it might seem, the team that was working together on that project was so proud and so tired at the end of that long, long day!
The proud “Smitty” that stands today looks exactly as the cookie did that night. So big, but with a giant smile on his face! We double the size of the previous record holder. Ikea took the title away from us by baking a cookie just 100 lbs heavier. ‘Dang it.’”
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Smithville... NOT A SLEEPY LITTLE TOWN anymore
“I’d hop a freight to Smithville to do a job. I’d wear my overalls over my stage clothes, and then take ‘em o and stash ‘em in the bushes. People would be down at the train depot or the bus station to meet me, but they wouldn’t find me. I’d just appear at the gig. en I’d slip away afterwards to catch a freight. People would ask me `Man, where’d you come from? We never see you arrive and we never see you leave.’ And I’d say, `I’m just like a ghost. I come up out of the ground and then I go back in it.”
“The Grey Ghost” Roosevelt T. Williams (1903-1996) Born in Bastrop, Texas
By WILL HOLCOMB
Smithville, Texas was one of the stops on the “Chitlin’ Circuit” where music would play on the weekends at West End Park. In the 1950’s Roosevelt T. Williams got the name “The Grey Ghost” because he would walk out of the woods in his grey suit and start playing piano and singing just when the concert started. Then, he would vanish.
From the late 1800s to just after World War II Smithville was the
largest town in Bastrop county with a thriving economy. Then, as locomotives started moving from steam to diesel they didn’t need to stop as often and the populations started declining. The Chitlin’ Circuit kept the music alive in Smithville but it faded into history.
I moved to Smithville in 1994 with a one-week-old baby. That son now lives in that house with his wife and one-year-old daughter. For my first two decades living in Smithville, it was a quiet, sleepy town where the Jamboree was the highlight of the year with live music playing all weekend at Riverbend Park.
I still remember watching a sixteen-year-old local boy playing on one of the side stages of the festival with his band, Blooz Illusion. This boy was playing guitar and singing Stevie Ray Vaughan like it was the most natural thing he had ever done. That boy, Jeff Haney, went on to tour the world playing guitar.
Smithville is home to some musical greats. If you drive down Main Street, you’ll see the giant mosaic created by local artist Stefanie Distefano. The mosaic is of the Smithville-born, classic composer and jazz trumpeter, Hannibal Lokumbe. Smithville is also the birthplace of DJ Screw (Robert Earl Davis Jr.) who was a central and influential figure in
the Houston hip hop community in the 1990s. Any fans of the sci-fi series Firefly? Sonny Rhodes, an American blues singer and lap steel guitar player, born in Smithville, recorded the theme song, The Ballad of Serenity, for the Firefly.
As Austin has grown to become ‘not Austin’ anymore, many artists and people who loved Austin for the free-spirited music and art community it was, have started looking for that feeling again. Many are finding and bringing what made Austin what it is to Smithville. Over the last decade, the sleepy little town I love has started to transform in a way that makes me love it more. The town locals used to have to drive out of town to find live music, but Smithville now has people driving in from Austin, Houston, and other places to listen to live music or see live theatre.
There have been some musical staples in Smithville who have helped make this happen by keeping live music in Smithville going and helping it grow. I’ve had the privilege to interview some of them recently to talk about their relationship with music in Smithville.
“...the boy was playing guitar and singing Stevie Ray Vaughan like it was the most natural thing he had ever done.”
I drove out to Joe Kindred’s house near Cistern to watch a rehearsal of The Bucksnort Boogie Boys. I’d like to write an article about the beautiful 1895 house they moved from Waelder to their acreage, but that deserves its own article. Joe originally bought the building which is now Olde World Bakery in 2008. In 2012/13, Daniel Pacheco, an accomplished musician, moved his bakery from Bastrop to Smithville.
The Bucksnort Boogie Boysan Americana Roots band comprised of a hillbilly, a big city refugee, a bird wranglin’ cowboy & a Cajun
Daniel decided to have open mics for music and poetry readings there on Saturday nights. They regularly had music at other times and that is where I first saw Joe Kindred, Terry Burgan, Bill Finch, and Wendel Broussard who make up The Bucksnort Boogie Boys.
Joe’s from around Bucksnort, Tennessee, and when you have a connection to a word like
‘Bucksnort’ it’s a sin against creativity not to do something with it. And, who doesn’t love alliteration? That’s where the band name came from. The Bucksnort Boogie Boys are about as organic of a band as they come. The members are people who met because they love music and have grown to love each other through their love of music. The four band members bring a wide variety of
musical background and interests which blends together to create their original sound. Joe, who plays guitar and resonator guitar, started his love for music after hearing Yellow Submarine. He started on trumpet at age 10, bass at 18, and didn’t start seriously with the guitar until he was about 40. Terry plays guitar, banjo, mandolin and started playing guitar when he was 11. Both of
the men have over 100 original songs which make up most of their setlist. The covers they do all have a Bucksnort Boogie Boys original take. Bill, the band’s fiddle player, played in fiddle competitions and is a music historian. He says that makes it hard to watch some movies because many times the music used didn’t exist in the movie’s period. Wendel, who plays mandolin and spoons, is also a premier repousse artist and metalsmith.
One of my favorite things to do in the world is to watch live music. The experience lives entirely in that moment. I’ve watched Jeff Haney play since he was sixteen years old and was so impressed, I’d watch him every chance I got. He had an obvious love for Stevie Ray Vaughan but there was also Ian Moore, Freddie King, and
“...the experience lives entirely in that moment.”
“...with
Jeff Haney on guitar and Barney Sledge on harmonica, both sharing vocalsit was magical!”
Martin Barre of Jethro Tull. Jeff left Smithville for about twenty-five years as he traveled the world playing guitar with the Army or touring with other musicians like David Allen Coe. When he came back to Smithville he met up with Barney Sledge. Barney has been playing harmonica since he was seventeen when his grandfather taught him to play. From there he traveled America playing with people and groups like Rusty Weir, Asleep at the Wheel, W.C Clark, and many more. He also had his own band called Barney Sledge and the Sledgehammers. When I saw Jeff was back and playing a show at Coach Q’s (now The Blazer) I made sure I was there but wasn’t ready for what I saw. It was just Jeff and Barney, and it was one of the most musically powerful shows
Matt Torrez, lead guitarist for DJester Brothers brings the HEAT with hot rehashes of your favorite Classic Rock
I’d ever seen. With Jeff on guitar, Barney on harmonica, and both sharing vocals, it was magical. In June of this year, Jeff and Barney got together at Fat CAT Cafe & Lounge in Smithville and the magic was there again.
I’ve known Matt Torrez through community theatre since he was about fifteen years old. It is interesting when you realize a kid you watched grow up has turned into one of the most accomplished guitarists and singers you’ve ever seen. He has played with a Beatles cover band called The Nowhere Men and several other bands. His current three-person
“...one of the most accomplished guitarists and singers you’ve ever seen.”
band, Djester Brother is covering bands from the ’60s to now with an energy and precision that
more. Now that Austin has given up and succumbed to becoming just another over congested megalopolis, artists of all mediums are looking for a place that holds the creative key Austin once held. Smithville is unlocking that door to let them in.
draws people in from the streets just to hear them. Matt is currently recording an album and also composes music for shows at Playhouse Smithville.
Briana Adams is no stranger to the music scene in Smithville. She started playing when she was fourteen in September of 2008 and had her first gig in February of 2009. She’s been performing ever since and is a full-time musician with originals and covers of a wide range of styles. You can get a feel for the breadth of her musical interests when her answer to the question of who she’d love to play with was Johnny Cash and Janis Joplin. You can hear the spirit of Janis in Briana’s cover of Me and Bobby McGee and Mercedes Benz. Briana has a new four-song EP out ,titled One More Highway, with the single Belle of the Beer Bash you can find on Spotify, YouTube, and other streaming platforms. She says Smithville has always been very supportive of her and wanted to say thank you.
These are just some of the people who helped keep the music alive in Smithville over the years, but there are so many
New businesses that love and support local artists are opening left and right. The beautiful mosaic-covered Rio Social house is hosting an open mic for musicians and poets along with live music on their indoor stage and the outdoor stage of their inviting courtyard. The spectacular Fat Cat Cafe & Lounge is fast becoming a destination for some big names in music, but they are enthusiastic about giving the stage to introduce new names. Carne Lenta has a great outdoor stage which is hosting musicians and bands from the surrounding area. Then there’s Honeys, The
Blazer, Huebels Bar, Old World Bakery, The Front Room Wine Bar, Your Mom’s Restaurant, who are helping Smithville grow into the live music-friendly city it is becoming. Both the Chamber of Commerce and the City officials are doing their part by hosting programs like Sounds of Smithville at the gazebo at the end of Main Street where live music is free to the public. Smithville isn’t the sleepy little town I moved to twenty-six years ago and I’m thrilled.
IT’Sthe people...
that make Smithville so Great!
Briana Adams: Just a country music sangin’, guitar pickin’, beer drinkin’ gal from Texas!
GOLF
COURSE REQUIRED GOLF COURSE REQUIRED not not
By DEBBIE DENNY & DEREK KAHANEK
The city of Smithville designated the town as a Golf Cart Friendly community in 2019.
The STX Golf Cart Club began in order to take advantage of Smithville’s golf cart ordinance to do some good for the community by organizing fundraisers for local organizations. Derek Kahanek along with Chase Dupuis and John Bencomo got together and discussed having a Poker Run/ Dice Run featuring several local businesses in Smithville. The guys never expected it to work but with the support of their wives and a few Facebook posts the event became a reality.
There first event was on June 1, 2019 and they worked with 12 local businesses, 55 people, 35 golf carts and it benefitted the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce. “We had no idea how it was all going to go. People of all ages participated...from 3 years old to 70 years old. No one had a clue, BUT, everyone had a blast! Just really hard to believe that we would be where we are today, but we’re extremely grateful!” explained Kahanek.
Folks in town wanted to know when there next event would be, since then they’ve organized events for the Smithville
Golf Carts aren’t just for Golf Courses anymore… at least not in Smithville.
Community Gardens, Smithville Police Association, House of Ruth, Blue Santa and most recently, the Samella Williams Angels Unaware Ministry. They are continuing to find fun, family friendly ways to make a substantial impact in the Smithville community.
“No one had a clue, BUT... everyone had a blast!”
Currently the STX Golf Cart Club has over 230 registered Golf Carts and as an organization they have over 500 followers but only about 100 of them own golf carts. Kahanek said, “There are no membership fees or requirements in order to be a part of our organization. All we ask is that you help us raise awareness for local non-profit organizations, support our local businesses and participate in our events if possible. We are constantly telling people that you don’t have to have a Golf Cart to donate, volunteer or bring awareness. Does it make it more fun, absolutely, but it’s not necessary.”
Kahanek went on to say that they have so many favorite stories and events its hard to nail it down to one or two, every event has brought so much joy to the Smithville community.” One of the memorable events was during The Amazing Golf Cart Run (similar to the TV show, Amazing Race) in October 2020 for the Smithville Community Gardens. They had 15 local businesses, 50 carts and over 100 people participate in this event. Golf Carts were separated into teams sent out into the community. Every business that participated had teams fulfill a task when they arrived. Once the task was completed, they would receive a clue that would lead them to their next stop. All the businesses really out did themselves. One business in particular was the Katy House Bed and Breakfast. Participants had to fold bed linens, set a dining table and prepare breakfast. They all wore chef hats and aprons which were a real nice touch. “They were by far one of the best stops!”
Another meaningful event they had for Viviann Snow back in March 2021 was amazing, but “really pulled on our heart strings”. Viviann, a 7-year-old girl, was and still is battling Neuroblastoma cancer. “Viv’s STX Golf Cart Dice Run was our biggest event to date. We had 25 businesses, 65 carts and 165 people participate. The
amount of support we received from the Smithville community was overwhelming and we were really blown away. This was one of those times where it really put into perspective...why we’re doing what we’re doing. With the help of our amazing local businesses, participants and Vivi’s Villagers we were able to raise over $13K for Vivi and her family!”
“This was one of those times where it really put into perspective... why we’re doing what we’re doing.”
All in all, it’s easy to say this club is full of enthusiastic local residents who love what they do and love their community. They appreciate the support they’ve received from Smithville Mayor, Joanna Morgan, City Manager Robert Tamble and the Smithville Police Department. From their support the club has been able to extend their events beyond registered carts in Smithville. They allow participants to purchase day passes in order to participate in our events (as long as they meet
the necessary requirements) which brings in more donations and new business! You can find out more information on the club, their events on their Facebook page.
The City’s golf cart ordinance allows golf carts on two-lane roadways with a maximum speed of 30 miles per hour. Permits are issued to drive a golf cart in Smithville after the cart is inspected by the Smithville Police
Department; golf cart drivers must be 18 years or older and must have a valid driver’s license and insurance for their golf cart.
IT’Sthe people...
that make Smithville so Great!
Ccommunity THEATRE
noun | [ kuh·myoo·nuh·tee]
By DEBBIE DENNY & WILL HOLCOMB
“The all lowercase, john daniels, jr” as he was nicknamed by the Austin Chronicle in the 1990’s celebrates the twelfth season of community theatre in Smithville. The little fifty-seat ‘black box’ theatre has been the home of an ever expanding troop of actors of all ages and one hundred and fifteen productions ranging from Shakespeare’s ‘A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream to the infamous Rocky Horror Show, and from Popcorn tossing melodramas to fairy tales.
The Playhouse opened in the former home of Charles’ Bar B-Que, 110 Main St. to six “SOLD OUT” performances of Little Shop
of Horror’s. “We funded the project with season ticket sales and one anonymous contribution from a fan in South Texas.” daniels continues, “It is amazing that the people of Smithville took a chance on a little theatre created by new comers. They bought season tickets when there had never been a community theatre in their town.”
daniels has a very specific philosophy about community theatres. “A community theatre is three things, a safe place to teach and explore, a gathering center for a community to express
itself and share and the true future of the art of the theatre.”
It is the future of the theatre that daniels expounds upon: “New work, original ideas, new ways of doing things. We are very happy that we produce local playwrights, teach new actors and give opportunities to young designers, musicians, costumers… artist.” daniels prides himself on being a “teaching director” like his two mentors. “You don’t have to have any experience to be in a production and we can always learn from the experience you have.” As for new works seven playwrights, Jon-Michael
Williford, Sam Blasco, Will Holcomb, Sam Damon, Delyn Peshke and daniels have premiered new plays.
Will Holcomb, local Smithville resident tells his experience meeting john daniels, jr: “I had known john for fifteen years when he put me on stage even though I was in no way an actor and never desired to be an actor. Being on stage, watching a production magically come together, the unity created with other actors, and hearing an audience react to a show does something irreversible to the brain. Since then I’ve been in many different shows with him. One day I brought him some pages of a play that was rolling around in my head and finally decided to write them down. I gave to it to john hoping for some ideas and guidance. The call I got that evening was… Will let’s do the show.”
“Over the years I’ve watched john daniels, jr. do this to person after person. He has put people on stage no other director
would put on stage. There is no audition. If you want to be on stage, you’re on stage. If there isn’t a part for you, he writes a part for you. I’ve been in awe of what this does to people. There is a magical transformation that happens after the first time john blessed them with his gift.”
into playwrights by giving them the opportunity they would never have anywhere else. To me, that is the essence of Community Theatre and we are lucky enough to have that right here in Smithville.”
“This season is important to us as we come out of these difficult times,” says Artistic Director john daniels, jr. “It is going to be fun for our performers and our audience. We all need some fun.”
The 12th Season opens with Sly Fox, a racy comedy of greed written by the writer of M.A.S.H. Larry Gelbart. Next up is Noel Coward’s improbable comedy of class and ghosts, Blithe Spirt. “Some comedy right off the bat,” says daniels.
Playhouse Smithville 110 Main Street
Smithville, TX 78957
512-360-7397
www.playhousesmithville.com
“This season is important to us as we come out of these difficult times.”
”Playhouse Smithville is an amazing part of the creative fabric of Smithville. In many ways, what happens behind the stage in the weeks before the show is more important than the shows themselves. That is the ‘community’ part of community theatre. People buying tickets to see the shows support the essence of john’s work and have the additional benefit of being entertained by the efforts of the cast and crew, continues Holcomb. “This season, Playhouse Smithville will produce my fourth play.” That play he produced years ago, is being brought back for a second time at another theatre. I’m just one of the many people john has turned
The season is not without something to think about. Pulitzer Prize winning play, Skin of our Teeth, by Thornton Wilder looks at human survival in the worst of times, probable extinction, with a hopeful view and a comedic twist.
Also this season 1970 Birth of an American Woman written and directed by daniels features music from the early 1970’s. A premiere Rock Opera written by local playwright Will Holcomb and composers Matt Torrez and Geno Gottschall, An Unsafe Place is set for late April. The season finishes with Mel Brook’s musical, Young Frankenstein.
“In 2010 it was amazing that the people of Smithville took a chance on a little theatre created by newcomers. “Their support has never wavered and our joy has never waned.”
IT’Sthe people...
that
make Smithville so Great!
Business Highlights shops ON BLOCK
INDIGO BOTANICAL
106-C NE 2nd Street | Smithville, TX
For Jodi Villarreal, combining her life long love of all things made from nature with her passion to support and nourish her community, has resulted in opening her sparkling gem of a boutique located in Smithville, Texas, Indigo Botanical Apothecary.
Indigo Botanical Apothecary
Her nomadic lifestyle led to a few years in Mexico with her family, but always found her bouncing back to Texas where her strong roots thrive as a native. In Smithville, Jodi has created a space that is welcoming to the community as well as to those just passing through. Indigo Botanical Apothecary provides skin care products and gifts from artisans who practice fair trade and give back, attributes that Jodi also practices. With her background as a dental hygienist and a medical esthetician, she especially loves blending essential oils and studying flower essence therapies.
As a woman with skin sensitivities, her boutique places a heavy emphasis on clean skincare with thoughtful attention paid to natural-based ingredients. Jodi carries local products that fit this description sourced from friends, neighbors and acquaintances throughout Texas. She has always been drawn to makers who practice charitable giving locally and abroad. As a mother and grandmother, Jodi also believes in women helping women. This underlying spirit of helpfulness is exactly why the environment and products offered by Indigo Botanical Apothecary have resonated with so many.
On most days, after hours, you’ll find her indulging her love of live music, gardening and travel, travel, travel. Fortunately, there’s lots of overlap in all of these passions and we are lucky she brings back music finds and well-chosen treasures to share at Indigo Botanical Apothecary.
RED CLAW SEAFOOD
“...you can always count on them to have gumbo, crawfish etouffe, jambalaya, lobster mac and shrimp n grits”
SMITHVILLE GENERAL STORE HOME
Hours: Friday & Saturday 11-4, Sunday 11-2 and by appointments
Growing up, Beth Neely dreamt of owning a store and living in a small town. When she arrived to Smithville, she was immediately drawn to the quaint town, the genuine people and their welcoming nature. It didn’t take her long before she opened the Smithville General Store on 2nd St. It is a gift shop with books, gifts, Smithville merchandise and much more. It’s also home to a fabulous coffee shop that creates a gathering place for the community.
Since moving to Smithville several years ago, Beth has renovated and restored many commercial and residential buildings ranging in age from the 1895-1920. She hates seeing old buildings deteriorate and enjoys saving them from being torn down. However, it is not for the faint of heart.
Her second store in historic downtown Smithville is Smithville General Store Home. This building was originally the Yerger-Hill & Sons Hardware Store dating back to the 1890’s. The building
was also used as the photo lab where Sandra Bullock worked in the movie Hope Floats. The store now features furniture, architectural salvage, antiques, leather good, unique finds, home decor and a fabulous Cozy Earth Bamboo bedding and a lounge-wear selection. They also offer design services.
The store is so lucky to have the creative energy of Shawna Bridgman to help run the store with Beth. Shawna is a true gem not only to the store but also the Smithville community.
When Marshall Leonard moved to Smithville he decided to take a poll of the folks in the area to find out what type of restaurant they’d like to have in Smithville…they said Seafood and Cajun Food, so he did both. The Red Claw Seafood Company features some of the finest seafood you can buy like Opilio Alaskan Snow Crab, Shrimp you won’t find anywhere local, blackened shrimp tacos, and lobster po-boy sandwiches to mention a few. Marshall hired the best culinary chefs who love what they do so much; they’d work for free if they had to. It’s a ‘Labor of Love’ for all of us, Marshall said. Leonard explains the cuisine is Louisiana Soul food with daily specials but you can always count
SEAFOOD CO.
512-360-7460
on them to have gumbo, crawfish etouffe, jambalaya, lobster mac and shrimp n grits.
The business has been very successful and his plan is to move to a building on Main Street, downtown Smithville, shortly after the first of the year. In the meantime, they have outdoor seating; take out/drive thru or delivery within a 5 mile radius. Call 512-360-7460 to place your order. Visit their Facebook page for daily specials Facebook. com/Boat2YourTable …warning, the photos will make your mouth water, it looks so good! They’re open Wednesday – Thursday 3 pm – 7 pm and Friday and Saturday 11 am – 8 pm.
THE SKIN BOUTIQUE
The Skin Boutique is a judgementfree place to learn about skin care. It’s the place where skin care is accessible and affordable for every household.
Our goal is to give everyone the knowledge and the tools required to get the most out of the skin they are in! All of our facial services are focused on correction and maintenance and are all tailored at the time of service to each individual
client. The Skin Boutique offers brow shaping and full body waxing services. We also have a fun and always changing gift shop.
We are currently open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 12PM to 5:30PM, Thursday from 10AM to 3PM, Saturday from 10AM to 2PM. These hours will change depending on which season of sports our children are in.
EveryoneFUN FOR
By DEBBIE DENNY
Smithville, Texas is the place you & your family really want to be. This quaint small town is big on friendliness and offers something fun for everyone!
the River
Visible from the north east end of Main Street, the Colorado River cuts across Smithville and is used for boating, rafting, canoeing, swimming and fishing. Located on Hwy 71, Riverbend Park is the city’s finest outdoor recreational spot and borders the Colorado River. The park has a walking trail, fishing pier, barbecue pits and picnic tables near the river. Smithville is host to many parks that are owned and maintained by the City of Smithville Parks & Recreation Department.
There are three public access sites to the Colorado River. The larger one accessible for boats is concrete to the water, under the bridge on Hwy 95/Loop 230 on the north east side of Hwy 95. Exit at the American Legion Road north of the bridge, and head under the bridge. The second public access is near Riverbend Park, under the double Hwy 71 bridges in the highway right of way. Light watercraft and kayaks can access the river. The third access is at Riverbend Park immediately north of the fishing
pier. It’s rough dirt/brush and walk in only, but canoes and kayaks can access to river. Kayak and canoe rentals are available by calling the Smithville REC Center at 512-237-2313.
the Rec Center
According to Ashley Garrison, director of the Smithville Recreation Center, there are many fun things to do throughout the year. They offer youth leagues in basketball, volleyball and soccer. Other activities include their Fall Festival, 5k Fun Runs, sports clinics, summer camps and their after school program. “We try to make all of our events family oriented so there is something for the grownups as well as the kiddos,” explains Garrison. She added, “Our Skate Park and Disc Golf Course are open and free to use.”
the BIKING
If biking is more your style, a popular destination for bikers is the park roads of Buescher State Park. You can enjoy the winding, hilly 12-mile Park Road 1C with lots of trees for shade and a peaceful ride. Cost is the entrance fee of $4 per person. The Buescher State Park entrance is one mile north of Hwy 71 on FM 153. Those who prefer more of a challenge look to Rocky Hill Ranch, three miles north of Smithville on FM 153. There are more than 30 miles of world class mountain biking trails on more than 1,000 acres.
the Disc Golf
Disc Golf is an 18 hole disc golf course at Riverbend Park. Bring the whole family to the park to one of the fastest growing sports in the country. All you need is a disc or you can rent one at the Rec Center.
the Arts
Smithville is known for their love of art. The Richard D. Latham Cultural District is located at 206 Main Street. Smithville boasts a great number of important works of art and culture as well as many significant historical sites.
The town has 10 stages and venues for theatrical productions and live music. Art is an initiative of “the possibility of public art, both indoor and outdoor, such as murals, sculptures and other art mediums, grace the town in Smithville. There are three art galleries in town, plus a bronze foundry, and an artist’s haven at the Mary Nichols Art Center. There are two museums in town, one with the history of the town and one to celebrate the town’s rail history.
Come explore the art and culture of Smithville. www.smithvilleculturaldistrict.com
the History
Want to see a bit more of Smithville’s history? Containing artifacts and photos from Smithville’s early days, the Smithville Heritage Museum, 602 Main Street, is itself a piece of history. Built in 1908, the Victorian structure was donated to the Smithville Heritage Society. The second story contains exhibits that are furnished with memorabilia that reflect early life in the community. The first floor also has memorabilia, but the back room is used for meetings.
In the backyard, a climate-controlled building keeps the archives of books and photos. Members of the Historical Society usually can be found archiving information on Tuesdays from 10-11:30 a.m. in the backyard building. Guided tours are available by appointment. 512-237-4545
“Smithville offers beauty
& recreation,
a centralized
location
that makes a perfect place to live, work & play.”
the Movies
Smithville is known as a “movie town” in the industry and among fans, and was named as the first Film Friendly Town in Texas by the Texas Film Commission. Directors and producers love Smithville’s “can do” attitude.
With over 40 film productions in town, including the movie that started it all - “Hope Floats,” the Cannes France Palm D’or winner,
“Tree of Life,” “Beneath the Darkness” which utilized many students and our school system facilities, the quirky “Artois The Goat,” award winning “National Selection,” and the unique “Doonby.”
The Chamber has created a full color 11”x17” color-coded map of all the movie locations with briefs of some of the more well-known ones. Just ask for a copy at the
Chamber office or other locations around town to take your own self-paced tour. Please remember to be courteous at the private locations.
the Skate Park
The Power Plaza Skate Park is concrete dreams come true for Extreme Sport enthusiasts of all levels. Located behind the Rec Center on 1st Street, the skate park is open to the public during daylight hours.
the Playgrounds
Regardless of where you are in town, there’s opportunity for eveyone to play, right around the corner. Just down the street from the Skate Park in Smithville’s Historic downtown is the Railroad Park Travel south a few blocks and you will find Smithville’s M.L.K. Park & Playground. North of town, near the flowing Colorado River is the Vernon Richards Riverbend Park featuring a new interactive playground that’s bound to entertain the whole family.
M.L.K. Park pictured here has plenty of fun to entertain all ages. Located at the corner of Marburger and MLK Jr. Drive
HERE WE GO AGAIN
Weekend getaway for two or mini-vaca with the fam... either way, you’re guarenteed a BIG SMALL TOWN
2022 EVENTS annual
Festival Of Lights & Lighted Parade
1st Saturday in December
Every First Saturday in December, Smithville Chamber of Commerce transforms Main Street into a themed winter wonderland for the Festival of Lights. The event features holiday exhibits, a kid’s area, games and fun activities along with great music, food and drinks as well as photos with Santa and indoor and outdoor markets. After dusk, the Annual Lighted Parade with Santa begins. 2021 is the 30th Anniversary of Festival of Lights with many special anniversary celebrations planned.
Holiday Sip & Shop
2nd Saturday in December
Join us for a fun Sip & Shop. Many of our downtown businesses will be partnering with local wineries to showcase their wine as you stroll and shop. Enjoy live music and food specials along the way!
Smithville Jamboree (Usually) Weekend after Easter
In Jamboree’s early days, Jamboree was held on the streets of Downtown Smithville, today known as “Main Street”. There were food vendor’s, a soda booth, street dances, jelly and jam contest, bread making, watermelon booth, chicken booth
and many other events. In the later years, Jamboree was moved to its current home of Riverbend Park. Jamboree is typically the week after Easter. Check website for dates and details.
Smithville Airport Fly-In
2nd Saturday in May
The skies above Smithville are buzzing with activity with the annual Airport Fly-In. The Smithville-Crawford Municipal Airport (84R) plays host to pilots and their fly-in guests for a day of fun and shopping Smithville-style! Area residents are also invited to explore the airport facilities, visit with pilots, browse the exhibits, and grab a bite to eat as well.
Casino Night
4th weekend in July
Join us for our annual Casino Night! Gaming, full meal, beer/ wine bar included with ticket price, great raffle prizes, 50/50 tickets, silent auction, live music and more await you at this fun annual event. Check website for more details.
Smithville Wingfest, Homebrew & Chili Cook-A-Roo
Last Saturday in September
The Annual Smithville Wingfest & Chili Cook-A-Roo in historic downtown Smithville is a great time to come out and cook up some wings, chili or home brew beer for our judges! Visit www.smithvillewingfest.com for details. Come enjoy tastings of wings and chili for People’s Choice! Wristbands are just $15 to taste all the wings and chili! Beer booth, live music all day and lots of great food vendors.
Community-Wide
Garage Sale
1st Saturday in October
Join us for a Community-Wide Garage Sale in Smithville, Texas Find your treasures at more than 60 garage sales all over Smithville and downtown. Free maps to all shoppers at the Chamber office downtown.
Visit www.smithvilletx.org for a complete list of events
Eco/Photo
Week-Long Virtual Event
Eco Fest and Photo Fest merged into one program in 2020. Experts in photography and ecology speak on topics as diverse as light pollution to nightsky photography.
Halloween Spooktacular! October 31st
Smithville’s littlest ghouls and goblins come downtown on Halloween for candy, train rides, ghost tours and a haunted house. Businesses hand out candy and prizes, costume contest, bounce houses, zombie walk and more at this annual event. Join us every Halloween from 5pm to 7:30pm.
Airing Of The Quilts & The Smithville Garden Club Home Tour
2nd Saturday in November
Annual display of quilts in downtown Smithville as well as a tour of historic homes throughout town.
GO AHEAD &Stay a while
...we know you want to
There’s no place like home… & no place that offers that “feel” of home better than Smithville.
With a variety of lodging choices…from rustic cabins to historic homes and guesthouses to cottages to an entire residential home on the Colorado River. Beauty and comfort and most conveniently located near Shopping & Dining. So many great places to choose from…
9E RANCH CABINS LOST PINES
2158 Hwy 304 #3
Smithville, Texas
(512) 2497-9502
www.9eranch.com
If you enjoy night life, bright lights, hustle & bustle and fast living, we don’t have any of that here. We have just what you need: private cabins, wind in the trees, stars at night and peaceful seclusion. Cabins include TV, Internet, air conditioners/ heat, private bathroom with shower (tub in Daisy, Eagles’ Nest and Michelle’s) sheets, towels, soap, and full kitchen with microwave, stove, pots, pans and dishes, as well as and lots of loving care. Outside grills at all cabins to use except when on burn ban. Two night minimum stay and 3 nights minimum stay on holidays. Included: great memories!
Guests are invited to walk among the towering Lost Pines on the ranch, view the awesome Texas Longhorns, the horses, and count the birds and wild turkey.
Stargazing nights, days of delights, an easy escape with pines, paths in nature and peaceful seclusion waiting for you !
BUESCHER STATE PARK CABINS
100 Park Rd 1E
Smithville, Texas (512) 237-2241
www.tpwd.texas.
gov/state-parks/ buescher
Experience a Scenic Stay in the Lost Pines Forest. Located north of Smithville, Texas, Buescher State Park cabins offer families and adventurers an idyllic destination for outdoor fun or relaxation in nature. Spot deer and armadillos on hikes through cedar forests, or bike through rugged wilderness. You can also cast off at the lake for some trout fishing or enjoy a geocaching expedition to explore the park’s fascinating history. Each cabin sleeps four, one which is wheelchair friendly. Cabins include ac, heater, ceiling fan, outdoor grill, electricity, water, microwave, refrigerator, table & chairs and two sets of twin bunk-beds.
COLONEL’S QUARTERS
Welcome to the Colonel’s Quarters, a stunning & sensational 1920s refurbished farmhouse home in the heart of the historic district in Smithville, Texas.
www.rb.gy/1zgr7o
Colonel’s Quarters is owned by my sister and me, who have served honorably in the U.S. Army with over 50 years of combined service on both active duty, national guard, and reserves. A unique
restored home and rural small-town destination that provides respite for visitors, tourists and Veterans. Great vacation or weekend getaway. Enchanting!
Off Highway 71, this straightforward motel offers clean and affordable rooms in quiet location with handicap accessible and pet friendly rooms.
Offering free Wi-Fi and LED TVs, mini fridges, microwaves and coffeemakers, iron and hair dryer. Suites have living spaces with pull-out sofas. Freebies include continental breakfast and parking. Amenities consist of an outdoor pool. There’s also a coinoperated laundry along with soda wending machine.
DAVIS RANCH RETREAT
davisRanchRetreat.com 1110 Peach Creek | Waelder, Texas 512-921-1500
The Davis Ranch Retreat is your “home away from home”, located in beautiful Central Texas. Guest accommodations include 3 bedrooms/2 baths in the Main House, as well as a separate “casita”, with a small kitchenette and private bathroom. And of course, the Treehouse! Start your day on the porch with coffee, listening to the birds waking everyone up. Sometimes the quiet is broken by “Mister”….our ever-protective rooster who watches over his brood of three hens. (This means fresh eggs daily!) Sit outside by the pool, or stay cool in the screened-in porch.
Well, it looks as if the time has come to move the “Totally Hooked Newsletter” from snail mail to a digital version. I ’m hoping that you all find it is as interesting to read and a whole bunch more colorful. Please feel free to drop me a line anytime you have a comment or question about the new version. Hope your summer’s been carefree and fun and you have been able to stay cool! And as always, we love working with your referrals (family, friends, and/or acquaintances). We will always be Totally Hooked – 100 percent – Nothing less!
lots of color to your front yard.
Keep in mind, most berms should be no more
one. They need 4-6 feet of width for every foot
least 8 feet of width. So, if you have less
to lower the berm.
What kind of plants should I use?
Glad you asked! Here are some popular choices but remember, it’s ultimately your choice and how much you want to spend.
• Flowering bushes, such as azaleas
• Evergreens, such as blue spruce
Our 4400-square foot lodge is rich in Texas flair, blending rustic cedar beams and custom built-ins with wood and native limestone throughout. The two-story structure, built similar to a duplex, has two separate sides, divided by an expansive utility room. Altogether, the lodge features 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, sleeps 20. Chill and grill by the pool on 15 secluded acres. Escape the city surrounded by the peace and quiet of the countryside. Step outside, relax by the pool, and enjoy the quiet delight of birds and mooing cows Or, sit under the shade of the oaks and cedars and try your luck in the pond that has been recently stocked with large blue gill perch (catch and release only).
• Perennials, such as periwinkle
• Tall, swaying prairie grasses
• Lots of mulch to keep weeds away
you
RUBY’S FOXCROFT COTTAGE
https://rb.gy/ucb3hb
106 Cleveland St.
Charming cottage located one block from Downtown Main Street (shopping and restaurants) and five local parks. (Railroad Park and Gazebo, Bark Park, Skate Park, Veterans Park, Independence Park)
Local hometown bar located next door. Consuela’s outlet shop one half block away! Entire 3 bed, 2 bath residential home to yourself.
Recently
SAVAGE RANCH TEXAS
Savageranchtexas.com
418 Vyvjala Rd (512) 420-6755
Welcome to Savage Ranch Texas! We offer a family-friendly and fully furnished vacation rental home that sits on a beautiful 39-acre ranch. Hosted by Valerie and Ryan Savage, this picturesque property near Smithville and Giddings, Texas with easy access from either Hwy 71 or Hwy 290 is spacious enough for 18 people of all ages. We specialize in making the “little ones” welcome with a pack-n-play crib and booster/high chairs. Besides lounging around the back patio pool, hot tub, gas grill, smoker, and fire pit, guests can enjoy many outdoor activities: fishing, orienteering the wooded trails, playing corn hole or horseshoes, and frolicking in the wooded kids’ area with a play fort, sand pit, ninja line and kid’s zip line. Visit our horses, barn cats, and chickens and ducks. (We share their eggs with you!).
HOUSE 201 Ramona St. (512) 237-4262
Katyhouse.com
The Katy House is located steps away from Smithville’s picturesque historic downtown. For 27 years, our luxurious amenities, hot Southernstyle breakfast, and unparalleled hospitality have been the heartbeat within this historical turn-of-the-century home. Katy House guests have the option of selecting any of our six distinct guest rooms, from the main house to separate cottages, each with their own private bath. Sweet as the Texas day is long, with plenty of room to relax & stay awhile, the Katy House experience is the perfect small-town escape and home away from home.
