Discover West Texas 2023

Saddle up and explore the vast culture of West Texas from the hill country to the hidden gem of Marfa and rich history of the surrounding area.

IT’S A RIDE...

West Texas may sound like a geological two-worded description, but most know… it’s a culture of its own. A line cannot simply be drawn down the map of Texas to divide an east from the west, the line must flow through a path of rugged, unique, artistic, and beautiful environment and the side that ends up on the left… well, that is West Texas. There’s much to explore and this edition of Discover West Texas only touches on a part of what makes the West the wonderful cultural pleasantry it is today. Enjoy, but most importantly… Discover West Texas.

DISCOVER

Explore some of West Texas’ thriving locations in a day trip or long road trip accross scenic views and eventful towns.

We’ve highlighted 16 Towns that only touch on the vast offerings across the West. Viist DiscoverWestTexas. com to learn more about West Texas and the culture many only wonder of experiencing.

Saddle up and lets ride.

Fort Davis

Marfa

ALPINE, TX Population 5,815

The Museum of the Big Bend leads you on a journey through the past and present of the Big Bend region – and it’s entering a new era today! Be among the first to see its just-opened expansion.

Behind the Museum, Hancock Hill rises above the Sul Ross State University campus with a network of rough trails that give you and the family a desert wilderness experience just minutes from the parking lot. Determined hikers can seek out “The Desk”, a quirky tradition full of local history.

Wassermann Wranch isn’t a zoo. It’s an extended family of kangaroos, alpacas, donkeys, and a camel. The Wassermanns became their accidental stewards, one at a time, and have gradually developed a mission to welcome visitors in a way that equally honors the animals and their guests.

When you arrive in Alpine, stop in at the Visitor Center for a menu of activities to explore for kids of all ages, including a tour of downtown murals and historic buildings. Find more information at visitalpinetx.com

Smack dab in the middle of the Big Bend region of Texas the small towns of Alpine, Fort Davis and Marfa are reminiscent of an era when life was simpler and time moved a little slower. Put traffic jams in your rearview, breathe in the fresh air, grab a seat with an unobstructed view, and give vacation mode your undivided attention. These family-friendly recommendations are a few of the must-dos for your next visit. Whatever family looks like to you, you’ll find a place to unwind, unplug, and reconnect in one of these timeless West Texas towns. See y’all out there.

FORT DAVIS, TX Population 1,067

The Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute spans over five miles of trails through the Davis Mountain foothills. Explore the botanical garden’s collection of cacti and native plants stretching from northern Mexico to southern Colorado, including a 250+ year-old Madrone tree.

The Nature Conservancy’s Davis Mountains Preserve towers nearly 8,500 feet and is open select weekends throughout the year, or find access to mountain wilderness year-round at the Madera Canyon Trail with its sky-island Ponderosa and Pinyon forests gazing at Mt. Livermore.

Kick off the dust and recap stories of your trip at the award-winning Chateau Wright Winery and stay at a historic hotel in the village center. Don’t forget to find an event for you and your family at fortdavis.com/events.

Come by the Fort Davis Visitor Center for information on family-fun activities or rent a bicycle and discover the mile-high village on your own. Learn more about what is on offer at fortdavis.com

MARFA, TX Population 1,750

The Marfa Mystery Lights have been observed above this grassland plateau for over 175 years, yet no geologist, meteorologist or ranch hand has found an explanation. Form your own hypothesis at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area, open free of charge 24/7/365.

Marfa Maid Dairy makes small batch goat cheeses found in local grocery stores and markets. Reserve a spot on one of their dairy tours to learn the process, hug a goat, and sample some of their delicious products.

Donald Judd brought big ideas to Marfa with largescale, site-specific artworks. His outdoor sculpture, 15 untitled works in concrete, at Chinati Foundation is a great way to start a conversation about scale, light and shadow, and how art interacts with the world around it. Sorry pet parents, no dogs allowed.

Stop by the Visitor Center, sited in the historic USO Hall for maps, business hours, and to hear about Marfa’s rich history from a local. Plan ahead at visitmarfa.com

PHOTOS: JEFF LYNCH, J. GRIFFIS SMITH, BELLE PENA-LANCASTER

Alpine is a friendly, bustling town of 5,000 people nestled in a West Texas mountain valley that feels like nowhere else in the state. Alpine offers shopping, dining, live music, the best variety of lodging in the region, and easy access to area attractions including Big Bend National Park, Marfa, Fort Davis, the McDonald Observatory, and more. Enjoy

the Museum of the Big Bend, offering seasonal art shows and a first-class permanent exhibit on the history and cultures of the Big Bend region. Other attractions include walking tours of downtown murals and historic buildings, and beautiful, historic Kokernot Field, home of Alpine Cowboys baseball.

Annual events include the Lone Star Cowboy Poetry Gathering in February; Viva Big Bend music festival in July; and November’s ArtWalk festival of art and music. Restaurants range from fine dining to food trucks, while accommodations include historic hotels, cozy guest rental homes, and more.

THE HIGHEST TOWN IN TEXAS

At over a mile high, Fort Davis is “the highest town in Texas”. The moderate weather and mountain scenery are perfect for hiking, biking, birding,

stargazing, and unwinding while soaking up the natural beauty. Meander through the botanical garden at the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center or take a hike at

FORT DAVIS MARFA

the Davis Mountains State Park for spectacular 360-degree views of abundant and rare wildlife. Find yourself beneath dark skies and bright stars. Lay back and take in the views or immerse yourself at one of McDonald Observatory’s star parties where viewers can look through telescopes and view celestial objects. Connect with the past and step back in time at the Fort Davis National Historic Site, one of the best surviving examples of a frontier military post. Discover locally produced wine, mountain vineyards, gourmet pecans, unique art and gifts. Or simply relax and disconnect in the friendliest little town in Texas.

Marfa is located in the high desert plains of the Chihuahuan Desert. That means the biggest, most colorful skies and incredible opportunities for star gazing.

You will find a great selection of restaurants, from food trailers to fine dining. Leave yourself plenty of time for browsing the independently owned bookstores and

specialty shops.

Marfa is world-renowned for having been home to artist Donald Judd. To this day Marfa is an art mecca and home to many galleries and artist’s studios.

Marfa hosts several annual festivals, including the Trans-Pecos Festival of Music and Love, with well-known country and

rock musicians playing an eclectic outdoor campground called El Cosmico.

With Marfa as a homebase, a scenic drive in any direction will connect you to one of many distinct neighboring towns. Make a visit Big Bend National Park or take a dip in the world’s largest spring fed pool at Balmorhea State Park.

The Greatest Little Town in Texas

Ballinger has a thriving downtown district with numerous restaurants, unique shopping opportunities and restored historical buildings. It also features a beautiful, historic courthouse located on a large landscaped sqaure, which is the site of the Texas State Festival of Ethnic Cultures and Arts and Crafts Show, held the last weekend of April.

The festival features a large parade,Ethnic food booths, handmade arts and crafts displayed by different artists, and live entertainment.

A favorite local spot is the City Park, located on Elm Creek, which has a large public swimming pool, and playground, “Imagination Station” as well as bike trails and RV hookups, a picnic area with outdoor cooking equipment and is home to “Friend” the Indian.

Another attraction is the Andrew Carnegie Library, which is over 100 years old, but has been authentically restored to its original luster and greatness.

The Pioneer Plaza is located in downtown Ballinger across the street from the Courthouse Square. The Plaza offers a refreshing stop for tourists thanks to benches, shade trees, a gazebo and a lighted fountain.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Texas State Festival of Ethnic Cultures (last Saturday in April)

BBQ Cook-Off & Ballinger’s Birthday Celebration (last Saturday in June)

Sidewalk Showcase (3 Saturdays a year; last Saturday in March, June & September)

Hunter’s Appreciation Dinner (first Saturday in November)

Christmas in Olde Ballinger (Saturday after Thanksgiving)

STOP FOR A BITE

Restaurants: Main Street Soda Fountain, Alejandra’s Restaurant, Sylvia’s Grands Amis,Beefmaster Steakhouse and The Co-

ffee Haus on Main. CLAIM TO FAME

100’ Cross outside of town erected in 1993 by Jim and Doris Studer family as a thank you to God for all the blessings bestowed upon them during their life, particularly the time they have been in Texas.

HISTORY

Established June 29, 1886 by the Sante Fe Railroad, it was named for William Pitt Ballinger, an attorney for the railroad.

NEARBY Fishing - Ballinger City Lake offers 6,050 square feet of excellent fishing opportunity.

Hunting - Excellent hunting for dove, deer, hogs, quail and turkey.

BIG LAKE

Historic Reagan County Courthouse, is located in the center of town. The Stiles jailhouse, a replica of Santa Rita No. 1, and the old railroad depot, are located in Reagan County Park. The Park offers a 20,000-square-foot community center, a modern swimming pool, activity center, picnic shelters, a covered pavilion and 150 hook-ups for tourism and scheduled events. The park has a one-mile walking track among beautiful pecan trees. Early evenings you might see deer and turkey grazing the area.

The Mudhouse Candle Co. is located at the city limits on Highway 137 and is housed in a historical building that belonged to the Marathon Oil Company in the 1920’s and was used to store mud for the rigs

Big Lake’s airport was named in honor of Florene Miller Watson, a World War II WASP pilot during 1942-1945. Reagan County recently resurfaced and extended the north/south runway to 6,000 feet. The east/west runway is 4.000 feet and has been resurfaced.

Big lake has a nine-hole municipal golf course to provide recreational activity for all ages in the community.

Santa Rita #1

A gusher at Santa Rita No. 1 in 1923 started the oil boom that saw more than 140 million barrels of oil come from the Big Lake Oilfield, known as Texon, the Birthplace of the Permian Basin. Some of the equipment used during the gusher of May 28, 1923, a 8,525 foot well, was productive until as late as 1990. The historical marker offers details about this well that brought an era of prosperity to West Texas. Big Lake remains a thriving community and major oil producing county.

Established in 1876 and incorporated in 1906, Brady serves as the county seat for McCulloch County. When the area was settled in the 1870’s, the community was named Brady City after Brady Creek, which runs through town. The name was shortened to Brady when the town was incorporated. A stone courthouse was completed in 1878 and still stands today. With deep roots in agriculture, WWII, horse racing, and country music, there is sure to be a point of interest for everyone when visiting Brady, Texas. Brady Lake, with 25 miles of shoreline, offers skiing, swimming, camping, and fishing for the sportsman. Facilities include a large pavilion, restrooms and showers, RV hookups, screened shelters, and picnic areas. There are 14 cabanas available for rent at the Brady Lake Marina. In addition to 12 RV hookups in the park area, with additional RV hookups tent sites, and primitive camp sites.

BRADY

Try out fishing at the Marina, located at Brady Lake Park. The fish house is free to anyone looking to throw their line in all year round. Features include interior lighting that is perfect for nighttime fishing. In addition to exterior and interior benches and a fish attractor located below the surface to encourage more activity. Across the street is the Lake Store where you will find live bait, lures, and other fishing necessities for your fishing trip at the Marina or around Brady Lake.

Brady boasts a beautiful nine-hole, “Par 71” golf course with wonderful facilities, amenities, and history. The course provides competitors five bunkers and three water hazards with Live Oak Creek crossing the course in two places. Now

operated by the City of Brady, golfers, and guests can enjoy daily or annual green fees, cart rental and/or storage, a year-round calendar full of tournaments, and some of the best views in Brady.

HEART OF TEXAS COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM

W W W . H I L L B I L L Y H I T S . C O M

With more than 100 artists represented, the Heart of Texas Country Music Mu- seum is a musical journey that traces the history of the entire country music in- dustry. Memorabilia includes stage cos- tumes, musical instruments, autographs, posters, and various collector items from legendary figures to honor the rich heri- tage of the genre. Run by the 800 member Heart of Texas Country Music Associa- tion, the museum is open each weekend and is operated by volunteers. The muse- um welcomes group and bus tours, and private viewings are available throughout the week by appointment. Admission is always free!

THE TRUE HEART OF TEXAS

The mural on the iconic Evridges wall displays the True Heart of Texas, where West Texas meets the Texas Hill Country. Mishay is well known for her vibrant, expressionist murals all throughout the state of Texas , including two in Brady. On the Texas Treasures wall, she captured the essence of Brady’s rugged roots-complete with white tail and cac- tus. Now, visitors from far and wide can enjoy Mishay’s Work for years to come. Visit the downtown square where there are a wealth of shopping and dining options to fill your day. The quaint downtown square encircles the gorgeous historic courthouse and hosts a variety of boutique shopping, antique and furniture stores. It is also home to the historic restored Palace Theater. For more shopping and dining options, look no further than a few miles south of the courthouse

square, where numerous, locally owned retail stores and restaurants line both sides of Bridge Street.

The Aquatic Complex at E.O Martin Memorial Park is a great place to entertain the entire family during the summer season. This unique complex features a large swimming pool, children’s water features, covered, poolside sitting areas, picnic tables, and lounge chairs. The E.O Martin Memorial Park as a whole, provides year-round fun! Enjoy the recently renovated playground areas, covered pavilions, BBQ pits, sand volley ball courts, and basketball courts.

Brady Lake, with 25 miles of shoreline, offers skiing, swimming, camping, and fishing for the sportsman. Facilities include a large pavilion, restrooms and showers, RV hookups,

screened shelters, and picnic areas. There are 14 cabanas available for rent at the Brady Lake Marina. In addition to 12 RV hookups in the park area, with additional RV hookups tent sites, and primitive camp sites.

Brady boasts a beautiful nine-hole, “Par 71” golf course with wonderful facilities, amenities, and history. The course provides competitors five bunkers and three water hazards with Live Oak Creek crossing the course in two places. Now operated by the City of Brady, golfers, and guests can enjoy daily or annual green fees, cart rental and/or storage, a year-round calendar full of tournaments, and some of the best views in Brady.

BRONTE

Bronte, Texas, on U.S. Highway 277 at its junction with State Highway 158 in east central Coke County, was founded in the late 1880’s and named for the English novelist Charlotte Bronte. J.B. McCutchen drove a herd of cattle into the area from Santa Anna in 1889, and other settlers followed, including Dr. W. F. Key, who started the town. Lumber was hauled from Ballinger and stonemasons used rock from quarries south of town to build the town’s early buildings. Both Oso and Bronco were chosen the town’s original names, but the post office rejected Bronco to avoid confusion with another town. It is unknown why Oso was rejected, and eventually the name “Bronte” was chosen. Bronte had a post office by 1890, and built a community building which was occupied by a church on Sundays, and school during the week. The town’s population was 213 in 1900.

The Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railway was completed through the area in 1907, and around this time Bronte was moved a mile to be near the track so it could become a shipping point on the railroad. The first train, however, reportedly did not run until 1909. In 1910 the town had a population of 635 and a number of businesses, including two cotton gins, a bank, a mercantile, and a newspaper. After torrential overnight rains in August of 1953, the Kickapoo Creek system which surrounds Bronte flooded, causing millions of dollars in property damage to homes and businesses. With federal support, the Kickapoo Water Control and Improvement District was founded to build flood control dams throughout the Kickapoo mountains to prevent future floods. Bronte’s population was reported as 999 in 1960, some 925 in 1970, 983 in 1980, and 962 in 1990. The population grew to 1,076 in 2000, but dipped to 999 again in 2020. Local tourist attractions include Fort Chadbourne and Bronte’s community park, which provides swimming, golfing, and fishing from Lake Knierim. Recreation areas in the vicinity include the beautiful Oak Creek Lake.

Bronte Depot

Built by local stonemason James C. Lammers (1874 - 1972), this depot was

completed in 1911, two years after the first train arrived in Bronte. Built of locally quarried materials, the depot features stone lintels and window skills and a red tile roof. Originally owned by the Kansas City, Mexico, & Orient Railways, the Bronte Depot was sold in 1928 to Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway Company, which discontinued operations here in 1967. The Depot now belongs to the city of Bronte.

The Texas Theatre

Built and operated in the late 1940’s by the Wojtek brothers, who also had the Alamo Theatre in Robert Lee, TX. Both theatres were in continuous operation from the 1940’s until the late-1970’s, and remains an icon for the Texas Historical Film Commission.

Historical Markers

Butterfield of Overland Stage Route

· Route of the Southern Overland Mail Line (Intersection US 277 and SH 70) One mile southeast to Fort Chadbourne, a station on the Butterfield Mail and Stage Line, which linked St. Louis and San Francisco. 18581861 the Fort was estabilshed in 1852, occupied until its surrender to State Forces in 1861, and garrisoned at times after the Civil War.

Southern Overland

Mail 1858-1861

(Butterfield Stage)

Passed neat this site, providing for the first time combined passenger and mail service between Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Operating west form St. Louis and Memphis, John Butterfield’s Company used 1350 hourses

and mules and 90 Concord Coaches and wagons. Stage traveled at a run, despite lack of good roads, a signal given approaching a station would have fresh horses ready and food on the table for crew and passengers. Route had stations 12 to 113 miles apart and was sometimes changed to get water. Crew and passengers wore guns to reduce danger of Indian attacks. Mules (less coveted than horses) were used. West of Ft. Belknap, the trip on way took 25 days -seven spent crossing Texas, from Preston (now under Lake Texoma) to Jacksboro, Ft. Belknap, Ft. Chadbourne and El Paso. One way fare for the 2700 miles was $200. Passengers rarely stopped off because they might not find seats on a later stage. Merchants in Jacksboro and other towns used Butterfield’s light freight service to make mail-order sales. Greatest contributinon of the Overland Sta-

Skilled Nursing

Personalized Therapy

Specialized Dietary Individual Care

Onsite Social Worker

Several Payment Options

ge was its carrying news. Coaches also brought mail from the west 1 to 10 days faster than it came by ship. Service was ended in 1861 by the Civil War.

Fort Chadbourne, C.S.A. (Marker Location: 100 block of South Washington, Bronte) Located 8 miles north on Old Butterfield stageline. Upon secession, company of First Regiment Texas mounted rifles occupied this post to give protection against Indians. Stopover on way west for many union sympathizers and people wanting to avoid conflict of war. Permanent personnel left the fort in 1862 when the frontier defense line was pulled back more than 50 miles east. However scouting parties and patrols of confederate and state troops used the Fort intermittently in agggressive warfare to keep Indians near their camps and away from settlements and to check on the invasion by union forces. Usually supplying their own mounts, guns and sustenance, these men guarded the frontier until the war’s end.

Indian Rock Shelters (Bronte Intersection of Texas SH 70 and US 277, about 8 miles N of Bronte) Throughout this area during the last several centuries, Rock ledges gave protection to Lipan, Kickapoo, Comanche, and Kiowa Indians. In one typical shelter archeologists found evidence of 3 periods of occupation, plus numerous intricate petroglyphs (rock carvings). River shells, turkey and deer bones, flint knives, scrapers, and points lay about the area. One of several hearths (2’ x 3’ in size) consisted of small pieces of sandstone lining a natural rock trough. On the highest level was found green bottle glass from nearby Fort Chadbourne (1852-1867).

Churches

First Baptist Church of Bronte (Marker Location: 424 South Was-

hington Street, Bronte) Organized by visiting minister W.G. Green and a congregation of three on June 19, 1887, the Baptist church in Bronte originally met in homes. However, in 1890 a brush arbor was built along the banks of the Kickapoo Creek and the Rev. R.M. Cumbie was called as the first pastor. Services were later held in the community school in the winter and the brush arbor in summer. A Sunday school was organized in 1901 and the first church building was dedicated in 1907. A new building was completed in 1951. From its beginning, this church has been involved in missionary and community activities.

First Methodist Church of Bronte (Marker Location: 324 South Washington Street, Bronte) Marker Text: This congregation traces its history to the summer of 1890, when a small group of worshipers led by the Rev. J.W. Montgomery gathered under a brush arbor on east Kickapoo Creek to organize a church. Later that year the Rev. G.F. Fair became the pastor of the church, which met in an old school house. A sanctuary was built in 1907 and served the congregaton until it was replaced by a new structure in 1951. Throughout its history this congregation, which became First United Methodist church in 1968, has been involved in missionary activities.

“Woman

COLORADO CITY

Making Colorado City More Than A Dot On The Map

Welcome to Colorado City!

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

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

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

Things To Do Around Colorado City

- Take a stroll Downtown

- Play disk golf at Ruddick Park

- Feed the ducks

- Attend a Sporting Event

- SHOP LOCAL with our GREAT one of a kind local stores

- Grab a bite at a local spot

Trees / Santa Pics

Lions Club Hamburger Supper

Val Verde Winery

San Felipe Creek

Swimming and picnic areas are on San Felipe Creek, fed by San Felipe Springs’ daily outpouring of 1,000,000 gallons of water. City Parks & Recreation | 830.774.8541 | www. cityofdelrio.com

Friday Art Walk

1st Friday of each month

Lee Bunch Studio Gallery

Oil paintings in watercolors, oils, and Pastels

Custom matting & framing Commission work

Texas Fine Art | (above Del Rio Loan Co.)

100 W. Greenwood | 830.774.3456 | www.leebunchstudiogallery.com

Casa De La Cultura

A project of El Comité Cultural Del Pueblo, Inc. Gallery • Art Classes • Community Center

Enabling a Unified Cultral Awakening by making the Arts Accessible and Affordable for the entire community.

302 Cantu St. at Brown Plaza | 830.768.2287 | 830.774.8742 www.casadelaculturadelrio.com

Photos courtesy of Bill Sontag, Karen Gleason, Del Rio CVB, & CBP

JUNCTION

Welcome to the rivers and trees and hills of the Junction, Texas landscape. Our beautiful part of the Texas Hill Country is full of friendly locals as well as fun and exciting activities like kayaking, canoeing and tubing, unobstructed night skies, hiking, hunting, fishing, birdwatching, sightseeing, shopping, and of course, just plain relaxing. Here you will find infor-

mation on what to do, where to stay, and where to eat if you are visiting the Junction area. If you are a local, you will find information on local Junction, Texas events and happenings. So come on in, and stay a while.

Junction the county seat of Kimble County, is on US Highway 83 ninety-eight miles southeast of San Angelo. It is named for its location at the confluence of the North and South Llano rivers. Junction was founded in the spring of 1876 following the organization of the county in January of that year. It was originally named Denman after its surveyor, but became Junction City in 1877 and simply Junction in 1894. Junction City won the role of county seat from Kimbleville, an unsuccessful settlement, in late 1876, after the first county court session, probably because Kimbleville was subject floods. By 1879, Junction city had a drugstore, a livery stable, a sawmill, and more than one general store. Theo post office, begun in 1876, was moved in 1879 from a private residence to the town square. Kimble County’s first newspaper, the West Texas, was published in Junction in 1882. In 1884, the county courthouse, erected in 1878, burned with all the county records. Its replacement, a two-story stone building, was partially destroyed by fire in 1888, but it was repaired and used until the present courthouse was built in 1929. Businessman Ernest Holecamp provided the city’s first waterworks with a canal dug from the South Llano to Junction in 1895. In 1896 a dam was built on the South Llano to provide power and water to the city and irrigation to surrounding lands. Four Mile Dam, a more permanent and extensive dam and irrigation system, was completed in 1904. Junction had a population of 536 in 1900, 8090 in 1910, and 1250 in 1920. Between 1910 and 1920 the automobile came to town. The first filling stations opened around 1916 or 1917. By the early 1920s the livery stable had closed, and Junction had graveled its streets and installed electric street lights.

By the Mid 1920s good highway connection s with San Angelo and Menard were available. Junction had Baptist, Christian,

WELCOME TO JUNCTION & KIMBLE COUNTY, TEXAS

Episcopal, and Methodist Episcopal churches by 1881, when the latter was organized by Methodist circuit rider Andrew Jackson Potter. A Catholic church and a Church of Christ had come to Junction by 1933. By 1930 the town had incorporated, and the United States census of that year l8isted it population as 1,415. Junction was the chief shipping and commercial center of Kimble County, as well as a tourist resort and hunting center. In the mid-1940s the cedar-oil business developed and enhanced the economy, but the city’s growth slowed. The population was 1,464 in 1950 and 2,593 in 1980.

Junction continues to be the shipping and marketing center for Kimble County’s livestock, wool, mohair, pecan, and grain production. It is also the hunting center for one of the state’s leading deer-hunting counties. The town’s other economic foundations include pecan processing, tourism, and a cedar-oil plant. Texas Tech University Center, a branch of Texas Tech University, is located in Junction. Thee center can accommodate 250 students and offers both graduate and undergraduate courses. Public school students are transported by bus from around the county to the Junction school, which has consolidated the rural schools of Kimble County. The Kimble County Library is also housed in Junction, as are a hospital and nursing home. Major celebrations in Junction include the Billie Sale and Parade in August and the Kimble Kow Kick in September. In 1990 the propu8lation was 2,654. That figure fell slightly to 2,638 in 2005.

Join

us in JUNCTION, TEXAS for these Exciting 2023-24 Events!

The Junction Area Farmers Market

Open every Saturday from March 18-December 16

KIMBLE COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAWN

9 AM TO 12:00 PM

Events with live music and free draft beer--March 18, May 27, July 1, August 12, October 14, December 16

9:00 AM TO 1:00 PM

Outdoor Women Gone WILDSM in Kimble County

Saturday, April 22, 2023

RAINS RANCH, 7 MI. S. OF JUNCTION ON US HWY 377

Just for Women! Just for Fun!

700 Springs Ranch Tour

TBA

MEET AT COURTHOUSE IN JUNCTION.

Motorcade leaves PROMPTLY at 10 a.m. for Ranch.

Bring Bag Lunch and Lawn Chairs.

For more info: 325.446.4219

Junction A&M Club

Scholarship Golf Tournament

April 2023

Dinner & Silent Auction after tournament www.junctionaggies.com fb.com/junctionaggies

Cinco de Mayo Dance

May 6, 2023

for more info: 325.446.3190

Memorial Day Celebration

Memorial Day Monday - May 29

8:30 am - TRIBUTE CEREMONY Honoring Fallen

Veterans & Boy Scouts Troop 420 Placing of Flags FLAGPOLE AT JUNCTION CEMETERY ON US. HWY 377 S

For more info: 325.446.3157

Cowboys & Cajuns

Together Again

Annually 1st Saturday in June Saturday, June 3, 2023

ON 5TH STREET BESIDE THE COURTHOUSE

STREET DANCE JOHN CHRISTOPHER WAY BAND

DANCE FOR FREE, EAT FOR A FEE CRAWFISH BOIL & COOLER CHARGE APPLIES

6th Annual “Hit for Sticks”

Softball Tournament

Benefiting Lexi Cardwell Scholarship Fund

June 9 & 10, 2023

For more info: 214.714.5653; 405.808.6959; 325.215.1600

Freedom Celebration

Annually July 4th Weekend

Saturday Night—July 1, 2023 Free Fireworks Display! DARK THIRTY • CITY PARK, ALONG THE LLANO RIVER

Sponsored by City of Junction

Saturday, July 1 PARADE ON MAIN – 10 AM

Celebrate the 4th in Junction!!!

Kimble County

Disc Golf Events

Sizzler July 28-29, 2023

For info: Hoyt Moss 325.446.6565 or Charlie Chapman 512.557.2482

Hill Country Fair Assoc.

Summer Classic Rodeo

Annually, 2nd Full Weekend in August- Aug. 11 & 12 HILL COUNTRY FAIRGROUNDS

DANCES & PARADE

gates open at 6:30 pm

Annual Martin Memorial

Open Car Show

Saturday, August 12, 2023

For more info: 325.446.5658 ericag.rojas@yahoo.com

Up & Back Boat Race

Adult Race August 19, 2023

Kids Race August 20, 2023

SOUTH LLANO RIVER - BEGINS & ENDS AT THE DAM

For more info: Hoyt 325-446-5087, Hilary 512-516-9184

Junction’s 55th Annual

Kow Kick

Family Fun Festival • BBQ Cook-off • Dance

Labor Day Weekend, Sat. September 2, 2023

Lone Star BBQ Society Sanctioned Cook-Off –

$5,000 Guaranteed Payout

LIVE Music • VENDORS • Kids Activities

National Night Out

First Tuesday in October

City Park Pavilion

6-8 pm

Hunters Welcome Events

1st Weekend in November

Deer Hunting Season Opens

FRI: Annual Library Bake Sale @ WBC, LOWE’S & PARKER LUMBER

FRI: Hunters Appreciation Lunch

WEST BEAR CREEK GENERAL STORE

Sat: London Hunters Breakfast

LONDON COMMUNITY CENTER

Sat: Hunters BBQ Lunch

SIMON BROS. MERCANTILE/LYSSY & ECKEL FEED/ ROOSEVELT

Kimble County WILD Game Dinner

Annually, the Saturday after Thanksgiving

November 25, 2023

Eat Wild Game, Win Guns & Hunts & Live Auction of Hunts & Resort Trips!

Christmas Happenings

• CHRISTMAS TRAIL OF LIGHTS - CITY PARK

• LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Annually in December

• CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH

First Saturday in December • 2 - 5 p.m.

SOUTH LLANO RIVER STATE PARK

Fun activities for the Family. For more info: 325.446.3994

• COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CANTATA

Annually in December

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, MAIN ST.

• Lighted Christmas Parade

MAIN STREET DOWNTOWN, ENDING IN JUNCTION CITY PARK -

• Lions Club pictures with Santa Santa Claus will hear Children’s wishes immediately following the parade in City Park under the Trail of Lights.

Eighth Annual Junction’s “Trial on the Pecos Trail”

TSDA Sheep Dog Trials

Annually in February

HILL COUNTRY FAIRGROUNDS

www.texassheepdogassoc.org

6th Annual

Predator Calling Contest

Annually in March

Predator Contest with Cash Prizes and Drawing at end of Contest on Sunday (Must Be Present to Win)

For more info: 325.446.3190

Easter Happenings

Easter Eve Saturday Morning. CITY PARK PAVILION

LIONS CLUB EASTER EGG HUNT 10 a.m. AGES 1-10 YEARS

Easter Eve

73rd ANNUAL EASTER PAGEANT AMPHITHEATER BELOW LOVER’S LEAP • DARK THIRTY

FOR EXACT EVENT DATES AND TIMES, VISIT: www.junctiontexas.com OR CONTACT: Kimble County Chamber of Commerce 402 Main Street, Junction, TX 76849 • 325-446-3190 • Email: chamber@junctiontexas.com

Crockett County has a unique history to share. It was named in 1875 to commemorate the illustrious David Crockett of Alamo fame. He was killed in battle March 5, 1836, 5 months short of 50 years after his birth in Tennessee. He never trod the soil nor beheld its beauty, but he is forever linked to the county that proudly bears his name. Crockett County is the eighth largest of 254 counties in Texas and covers over 3,000 square miles of ruggedly beautiful west Texas. The one and only town within its boundaries is Ozona, which is known as “The Biggest Little Town in the World,” with about 3,500 persons calling it “home”. The town is un-incorporated and, although being rather isolated from other towns, is quite independent. Ranching and oil/gas businesses keep the economy steady and school activities keep everyone involved.

Crockett County is proud of its heritage, and the Museum on the square shelters the artifacts and shares the stories of its inhabitants from 10,000 B.C. to present day. To the traveler, a stop at the Museum promises a new appreciation for this area of West Texas, as the stories are told about how E.M. Powell acquired a lot of acreage around present-day Ozona. He had surveyed a lot of West Texas and the State paid him in land. He came out to see what was his and found a tree--just a live-oak tree--and Ozona grew up around this tree which still stands. There’s a lot more to this story and the Museum invites everyone to come in and hear all of it--and more. Visit 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

thing for everyone! Stop by the Chamber & Visitor’s Center to pick up

Edwards Plateau in the east, Chihuahuan Desert in the west, and the

Robert Lee is known as the home of the Rabbit Twisters and the Playground of West Texas for the many activities we are able to provide to travelers. Mountain Creek Golf Course is a 9-hole public golf course that host many tournaments for locals and visitors alike. Another great attraction is Lake E.V. Spence which is located upstream to the Colorado River. This grand lake provides great fishing opportunities, camping locations, nature trails and lets family enjoy their time on the water. Robert Lee is also home to the Red Canyon Gun and Archery Club which is located just outside of town. They provide great practice fields and they even hold tournaments

Claim to fame

Allen Bloodworth, Robert Lee pioneer said, “When they divided up Tom Green County, they gave us the pre y part.” A location at the edge of the Edwards Plateau, by the Colorado River, provides scenic spaces all around.

History

R.E. Cartledge and L.B. Harris founded the town along the Colorado River a er returning from the Civil War. The town became the county seat in 1891 and was incorporated in 1929.

In 1885 Charles G. “Charlie” Adams, a rancher and merchant from Fort McKavett, settled on four section of land - two miles north of Winkler’s Well - in 1887, and drilled the first well in 1889. In 1890, Sonora was selected as the county seat of Sutton County.

NEARBY

Fort McKavett, Lake Amistad, Llano State Park, The Devils River Sink Hole, The Hummingbird House.

WELCOME TO SONORA, TEXAS WHERE THE HILL COUNTRY MEETS WEST TEXAS

Located between central Texas and the Big Bend Region at the crossroads of Interstate 10 and Highway 277, So nora Texas offers the best of both the Texas Hill Coun

try and West Texas. Rolling hills and limestone outcroppings laced with oak and juniper greet visitors and serve as the perfect backdrop for the world-famous Caverns of Sonora, the quiet trails of Eaton Hill Nature Center and Preserve, and an abundance of historical attractions including the Old Ice House Ranch Museum. With plenty of lodging and dining options, Sonora offers travelers the perfect weekend getaway or overnight stay on the way to or from Big Bend.

Restaurants: Sutton County Steakhouse, La Mexicana Restaurant, La La’s Mexican Restaurant, Taco Grill, Honeybee Café, JL Bar Ranch & Resort, Pit Stop BBQ, Backdoor Café ( In Roosevelt)