The Bastropian - 2015 - 2016 by Statesman Media

the

Bastropian

2015-16

Art center and sculpture garden are part of an effort to make Bastrop an art destination in Central Texas. Page 28 A supplement to the The

Bastrop Advertiser

The Bastropian 2015-2016

WELCOME

Enjoy this guide to Bastrop County Becki Womble

President’s Report

Dear Visitors and Friends, It is with great pride that I welcome you to Bastrop County and the 31st edition of the Bastropian, a guide to Bastrop County! Bastrop is the B.E.S.T. County in the state of Texas with

the Leadership of Bastrop*Elgin*Smithville*Texas. The cities within our county work closely together to promote this region called the Lost Pines. We have our amazing State Parks, the Colorado River for kayaking and fishing, tall loblolly pine trees, beautiful lakes for boating, parks galore with hiking trails, spectacular golf courses and charming historic downtowns. If you are reading this, you should know that the welcome mat is always out for visitors to our county and the com-

munity of Bastrop. This is truly one of the friendliest places you could visit. We ask for your patience and that you remember we are open for business even though we have extensive road construction underway in our community. The improvements to Highway 71 will reduce the traffic congestion and increase the safety for our visitors and citizens alike on this thoroughfare. Bastrop itself is in the heart of the Lost Pines of Central Texas. Bastrop’s Historic District offers a variety of special-

ty shops, art galleries, restaurants and bed and breakfasts. Our downtown neighborhoods contain more than 130 historic homes with most listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Just across the Colorado River is our commercial district, brimming with growth and activity and hotels offering great accommodations and amenities. And don’t forget the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort for your pleasure and relaxation! As a citizen of Bastrop, maybe you are checking out new opportunities in

our community. The past few years have brought tremendous growth and changes. We have new housing communities being developed, new opportunities to shop local with additional retail stores coming in and vacant buildings in our downtown now being renovated and occupied with businesses. This growth and prosperity has enhanced our quality of life but we still have managed to maintain the historic charm and atmosphere that makes Bastrop unique. Here at the Bastrop

Chamber of Commerce (and I know it is true for Elgin and Smithville as well!), we love having visitors come to our towns. Many return and become neighbors because of the charm that is the Lost Pines Region of Texas. Again, we welcome you to our communities and are happy to supply you with all the tourism information you need to make your travels more enjoyable. We thank you for choosing Bastrop County as your travel destination. BECKI WOMBLE, PRESIDENT/CEO

CITY PARKS

Area parks offer plenty of opportunities for you Relax, read a book play games, walk a dog — can be done. In Bastrop

The city of Bastrop has a variety of parks and recreational options. There are inviting opportunities for a cookout, a pickup basketball game, enjoying a picnic or launching a canoe trip down the Colorado River, and an amazing new Splash Pad, located in Fisherman’s Park. Fisherman’s Park is perhaps the best known and most popular among Bastrop’s city parks. Located along the banks of the Colorado River and a stone’s throw from downtown Bastrop, the park offers a 10-foot-wide lighted sidewalk known as the June Pape Riverwalk that runs nearly a mile through the park to Ferry Park beneath the old Loop 150 Bridge, also known as the “old iron” bridge. The riverwalk is a popular spot for Bastropians looking

to catch an early morning jog before work, take a leisurely stroll during the lunch hour or get in a workout over the weekend. Also featured at the park are a multi-purpose field for baseball, softball and soccer, plus a basketball and sand volleyball courts, a playscape, two pavilions, a boat ramp, picnic tables and benches. The addition of a splash pad graces the park and adds to its amenities, all of which helps the park play a big role in hosting many community gatherings and events each year. During the holiday season, for example, the park hosts the impressive “River of Lights,” featuring Christmas-themed scenes and exhibits with music and a wonderland of lights that fascinate all who view it up front and personal or viewing the beauty from the old iron bridge. Bob Bryant Park is notable for 4,200 feet of nature trails with benches,

Kim Gladwell, from Smithville, relaxes on a swinging bench while texting at Fisherman’s Park. ACN NEWSPAPERS 2014

an observation deck and a canoe launch/fishing pier. The park is at the intersection of Charles Street and Schaffer Boulevard in the Riverside Grove subdivision and has horseshoe pits, a sand volleyball court, swings and a multi-purpose field. Week-

ends often find the park hosting pickup football or soccer games with its abundant grassy areas. Because of its access to the west side of the Colorado River, Bob Bryant is also a popular spot for those looking to cast a line in the water and see what

bites. And, like Fisherman’s Park, Bob Bryant is a perfect launching point for adventurous souls seeking to take a canoe excursion down the Colorado River toward Smithville, where swimming and camping on sandbars are possible at many turns. Ferry Park is located at the intersection of Water and Main streets at the south end of the Riverwalk and features a small playscape, one of the city’s first outdoor art pieces, swings and a gazebo. This park is connected to Fisherman’s Park by the June Pape Riverwalk and provides an excellent alternative to seeing downtown Bastrop from the banks of the Colorado River. Kerr Community Park is located at the corner of Walnut and Martin Luther King and features a pavilion with numerous barbecue pits and park benches, a playscape, a xeriscape garden, a basket-

ball court and other amenities which make it an ideal location for weekend events, cook-offs and is the location for the annual Juneteenth Celebration. The park is the result of a grant which was a joint venture with the Kerr Community Center and the City of Bastrop. Jewell’s Park is located on Hill Street and is Bastrop’s newest pocket park. It is named for long-time resident and activist Jewell Hodges, who lived down the street. This park features a youth merry-go-round and see-saw, basketball courts, small barbecue pits and other amenities for the popular neighborhood spot. Hill Street Park, located off Hill Street behind Bastrop High School attracts youth with its baseball fields, swing sets and picnic tables. Mayfest Park at the intersection of Arena Drive and American Legion Parks continued on 4

Parks continued from 3

( just behind the American Legion Post on Loop 150 East) is Bastrop’s headquarters for livestock and rodeo events. The annual 4-H livestock show, live concerts and the annual Bastrop Homecoming and Rodeo are all held at this location. Fireman’s Park, located at 600 Hill St., has a lighted softball field, bleachers and is a favorite for small softball tournaments. This park, located in the middle of a neighborhood, has traditionally been a fun hangout for locals to watch a good softball game and enjoy visiting with the players and neighbors. Check Bastrop Public Works and Parks and Recreation at cityofbastrop. org for more information. Cedar Creek Park is not really in Bastrop, and it’s owned and maintained by the county. But there’s plenty going on at the 46-acre park, on land deeded to the county by Bastrop school district. Texas Parks and Wildlife and LCRA have matched land value with funds to get the park up and running and it opened in 2008. It includes sports fields, trails and community gathering areas, as well as preserved natural areas along Cedar Creek. There’s an outstanding Butterfly Discovery Garden and plenty of youth sports, coordinated through the CCYSA Youth Sports organization. Check cedarcreekpark. org for more information

In Elgin

Elgin parks are popular gathering spots that retain a bit of history while offering plenty of fun for youth and adults. Veterans’ Memorial Park, located in downtown Elgin at 109 Depot St., is one of the most popular parks in Elgin. It is also known by locals as “City Park” and the focal point for a multitude of community gatherings and celebrations. The

The Bastropian 2015-2016

park honors veterans of WWI (with a field canon and plaque) and was built on the site of the old railroad depot in the 1930s. Bring the family to some of the popular events, such as the Movies in the Park and Music in the Park series and Elgin’s Chile Pepper Fiesta. Visitors can relax in the wooden gazebo or on one of 12 benches that sit under the rows of large crepe myrtles that have become one of the park’s signature features. The picturesque Elgin Memorial Park at Texas 95 and Main Street encompasses 26 acres of rolling land covered with hundreds of elm trees and sits adjacent to the Elgin softball and baseball fields. Also included on its grounds are two sand volleyball courts, a playground, three tennis courts, barbecue grills and a covered pavilion that commonly hosts parties and events. The park is the site of the annual Western Days Celebration and Firemen’s Barbecue Cook-Off and the annual Elgin Community Easter Egg Hunt. The city’s largest park is Shenandoah Park and Greenbelt, located west of downtown Elgin on 1490 North Avenue C. The park is 40-plus acres and includes soccer fields, picnic tables and benches as part of the first phase of its construction, begun in 2003. Future developments, part of the city’s Open Space Master Plan for 2011-2021, include adding park lighting and vehicle parking and improving the connectivity of walking trails. Morris Memorial Park is located on North Avenue C on the grounds of the former Morris Hospital. The park, which covers 14 acres and is one of the most popular in the city, was constructed in 1996 and features an outdoor swimming pool, basketball court, playground equipment and a pond surrounded by a hike and bike trail, several picnic tables and other amenities. (For pool hours during the summer, see

Ty Furlow of Smithville goes airborne as he throws a long-range putt to the basket on the first hole at the Riverbend Park disc golf course. The avid disc golfer has participated in tournaments across Central Texas with his doubles partner Brian Webber. DENIS MCGINNESS / ACN NEWSPAPERS

the city’s website:www.elgintx.com and click on the tab “Parks & Rec.”) Free wireless Internet connections are available and a pool at the park is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Elgin Independent School District uses the pool for its swim team. Thomas Memorial Park is a 12-acre park located two blocks off McDade Road at 411 Madison St. Built in the 1970s, it is loaded with amenities including a baseball field, a playground, restrooms, a pavilion, picnic tables and a concession stand. Numerous additions and improvements have also been made in recent years, including a nine-hole disc-golf

course, a volleyball court and playground equipment, expanded trail system and parking lot, renovated bathrooms and additional picnic and barbecue areas.

In Smithville

Hiking along the Colorado River while viewing majestic live oaks and enjoying abundant recreational opportunities are some of the highlights offered among Smithville’s five city parks. Vernon L. Richards Riverbend Park is the largest and one of the most popular of the city parks. A landmark feature of Smithville, the park encompasses 50 acres of pristine land adjacent to the west side of the Colo-

rado River and off of Texas 71. Riverbend Park is home to some of Smithville’s most popular annual draws, including the annual Jamboree festival and Thunder on the Colorado — a gathering of motorcycle buffs. There is also an 18-hole disc golf course, plus a large open area of grass fields capable of hosting a variety of sports. Volleyball courts, a softball field, a pavilion and fenced-in area for large events. A playground and 19 campsite pads with restroom and showers are also available for use. Riverside access includes a trail along the banks and a boat ramp, a perfect launching pad for canoe and kayak trips

further down the remote stretches of Colorado River toward La Grange and the coastal regions near Houston. The Railroad Park, located off northeast First Street, is dedicated to the railroad workers of the city of Smithville and is built on the site where the depot station was located. It features a playground and several train cars. The Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce is also located there. Keilburg Park is perhaps best known for its role in the 1998 film “Hope Floats,” directed by Forrest Whitaker and starring Sandra Bullock and Harry Connick Jr. The park has a full-size baseball field and soccer field and is located at the top of Fourth Street. MLK Park, on the corner of MLK and Marburger, attracts sports lovers. Right next to the Little League ball fields, the park features a soccer field, basketball goals, picnic tables and barbecue pits. The Smithville Recreation Center is a 22,500 square-foot facility with a full-sized gymnasium, theatrical stage and other amenities. It is a highly popular location for local residents to exercise, and is located off Texas 95 just across the railroad tracks and adjacent to downtown. Smithville Bark Park is off of Texas 95 at First Street, just across from the Smithville Recreation Center. According to the city, “Use of this dog park is at your own risk. Dog owners/handlers are responsible for the behaviors of their dogs.” This park is a fenced-in area that opens through gates to a “larger dog” area and the “small dog area” (30 pounds and smaller only in this portion of the park). Owners must pick up after their dogs. There are comfortable benches, and water is available for pets and owners. Restrooms are on the east side of the Bark Park area, inside of the Railroad Park.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Close to home. Close to your heart. In the heart of the Lost Pines lies a sanctuary. A rustic retreat from the everyday. Comfortably, luxuriously, deliciously wild. Where you can explore as much, or as little, of a 405-acre, pine-covered wilderness as your heart desires. On horseback or kayak. Shooting trap or golf. Hiking on trails or floating down streams. And capping it off with a massage and a world-class meal. It’s all waiting for you at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa. Minutes away. A world apart. Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

HYATT REGENCY LOST PINES RESORT & SPA 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd., Lost Pines, TX 78612 1 800 55 HYATT (49288) • lostpines.hyatt.com

The Bastropian 2015-2016

STATE PARKS

Get back to nature at area’s state parks Bastrop, Bueschler parks offer plenty to do outdoors. Bastrop State Park

Whether you’re looking for a getaway close to home or you’re visiting the area, Bastrop State Park is a great option. The park, east of downtown Bastrop on Texas 21, offers hiking, swimming, golfing, camping and much more. The park rests of 5,926 acres in the famous Lost Pines, an isolated region of loblolly pine, cedar and oak trees. The design of the park, which was built in the 1930s, mostly by workers with the Civilian Conservation Corps, served as the basis of the style of all Texas state parks. On Sept. 4, 2011, the park was closed due to the Bastrop County Complex Fire, which ultimately burned as much as 96 percent of the park and threatened cabins and most other park structures, most of which were ultimately saved. Since that time, restoration efforts have gotten under way and many community groups and students from elementary school up through colleges and universities have contributed time and manpower to plant new seedlings to help restore the Lost Pines. Before the fire, the park had started a series of capital improvement projects to replace roofs, improve accessibility and upgrade facilities and infrastructure to the park’s cabins and camping facilities. Each of the 14 cabins in the park come equipped with air conditioning, fireplace, kitchen with microwave, refrigerator, stovetop, waist-high grill outside and a bathroom with sink, toilet and shower.

Cullen Sartor, site manager for Buescher State Park, rides on a biking trail. The park, two miles northwest of Smithville, has more than 1,000 scenic acres. TERRY HAGERTY / AUSTIN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

The cabins also have new roofs — the old ones were replaced after the fire. The cabins accommodate two to six people each; one cabin is fully ADA-accessible. Reservations can be made in advance by calling the state’s central reservation system at 512-3898900. Other facilities have tent and RV camping areas with ADA accessibility and upgraded bath and toilet facilities. Visitors will also find an 8.5-mile hiking trail with primitive camping permitted without fires. The Lost Pines Lodge accommodates eight people in air-conditioned and heated comfort. The lodge has a stove, refrigerator, oven and bath facilities. For larger groups, a group camp is available which can accom-

modate up to 90 people. The facility includes four dorms. There is also a heated combination dining and recreation hall, which can accommodate 90 people and is furnished with tables, chairs, refrigerator, stove and outside barbecue pit. The park also features a 365,000-gallon swimming pool, with a liner that was replaced last year; the poolhouse features a new roof and showers. A snack bar is located inside the facility and picnic tables are located nearby. The park has opportunities for backpacking, camping, climbing, picnicking, hiking, biking, canoeing and fishing. A 10-acre lake at the park is stocked with perch, bass and catfish for anglers of all ages to test their skills. A fishing

license and entrance fee is required. For more information, call Bastrop State Park at 512-321-2101 or call park information toll-free at 1-800-792-1112.

Buescher State Park

Buescher State Park is located two miles northwest of Smithville just off Texas 71 on FM 153. The park is just east of Bastrop State Park and the two are connected by Park Road 1C. The scenic 12-mile long, winding, hilly road between Buescher and Bastrop state parks is an ideal setting for a scenic bike ride, but should only be used by experienced cyclists. A variety of campsites, cabins, shelters and pavilion locations are available. There are 35 campsites with water, which

may be rented for $12 per night and 32 campsites with electric and water hook-ups, which start at $17 per night and may be rented weekly or monthly during nonpeak times. The park offers three cabins, housing a maximum of four people each for $75 per night. Two screened shelters are available with picnic tables, electric outlets, lights and water nearby. A fire ring and an upright grill are also available for $25 per night. Two premium screened shelters are available with ceiling fans, electric outlets, picnic tables, smoker/grill and fire ring. The shelters, which are winterized during cold months and are ADA-compliant, rent for $45 per night. A group recreation hall with kitchen and a capacity of 100 is available for

$250 per day Saturday and Sunday and $200 per day Monday through Friday. A group picnic pavilion with tables, electricity, fireplace and restrooms nearby are $40 per night. The daily entrance fee for those 13 and older is $4 per day. There is a $2 charge for ages 13 and older who want to drive on Park Road 1C only. State park season passes are available for $70 for one pass or $85 for two passes. The park was created in 1936 with 318 acres of land donated by Emil and Elizabeth Buescher. After Emil Buescher’s death, his heirs donated an additional 318 acres. Today, the park offers more than 1,000 acres of scenic area, including land acquired by the city of Smithville. The park is adjacent to the MD Anderson and UT Cancer Research Center. El Camino Real once ran near the park, connecting San Antonio de Bexar with Spanish missions in East Texas. Original park improvements were made by workers with the Civilian Conservation Corps and their work may be seen today in various locations around the park. The park has 7.5 miles of hiking trails through a variety of terrain, including dense forest cover and provides prime nature study. The park offers a wide range of activities, including a 25-acre lake that is stocked with crappie, bass, perch and rainbow trout. Boats are permitted on the lake, but not gas powered motors. The park does offer canoe rentals. There is no launching ramp and the lake is kept at a consistent level with a water well pump. For more information, contact Buescher State Park at 512-237-2241.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Visit LCRA parks...

from the

Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast.

With more than 40 parks along the lower Colorado River and 14,000 acres of parkland in Texas, the Lower Colorado River Authority offers great public access to the river throughout the basin that stretches from San Saba to the Gulf Coast. Visitors can camp, hike, mountain bike, swim, fish, canoe, kayak, go boating or birding, or bring along horses for a trail ride. Tent, RV or equestrian camp at an LCRA park today.

www.lcra.org/parks 路 512-473-3366 Reservations: 855-392-7638

The Bastropian 2015-2016

RIVER

In Bastrop County, Colorado River runs through it all Family fun awaits for those who enjoy water sports, fishing. The Colorado River is one of Bastrop’s most popular destinations for recreational canoeists, adventurous hikers and especially for those looking for a full day of family fun. Whether strolling along the June Pape River Walk at Fisherman’s Park in Bastrop or fishing off the pier at Smithville’s Riverbend Park, the beauty of the Colorado is all-inclusive. It’s such an alluring river, in fact, that a portion of the river was recognized in 2007 as the El Camino Real Paddling Trail by Texas Parks and Wildlife. In 2008, the Wilbarger Trail, a new section of the paddling trail, was dedicated. The trail flows through a unique geological formation that bisects Calvert Bluff just upstream from Bastrop. The Colorado River is rated as a Class I river, meaning it has very few hazards and is appropriate for beginners – there are no severe whitewater rapids or other major hazards, but there are a few points in the river where the water moves swiftly or where there are minor rapids, or where a downed tree that has fallen into the river may cause some trouble. There are a variety of different trip lengths available that are short enough to be appropriate for tubing, a popular Texas pastime. But most trips are too long for a tube and a canoe or kayak is the preferred method. Both allow easy maneuvering through the gentle waters and offer an excellent opportunity to “sneak up” on wildlife since there are no motors allowed. The banks are,

The 6-mile stretch of the Colorado River known as the El Camino Real Paddling Trail, which starts at Fisherman’s Park in Bastrop and ends at the Colorado River Refuge in Tahitian Village, is a perfect ride for those looking for a half day on the river. SARAH ACOSTA / ACN NEWSPAPERS

for the most part, heavily wooded, meaning that the sounds of the city soon disappear and are replaced by the calls of birds and the rippling of the water. The roads that cross the river, or come near to it, are few and far between and it is easy to feel instantly transported to another time. While the banks of the river are private property, there are occasional gravel bars and islands that offer an opportunity to get out and stretch the legs or spend an overnight campout. The time of the trips varies with the speed of the river flow and the length of the trip. There are five- and six-mile trips that take a few hours, 14-mile trips that can take most of a day and even 26- or 38-mile trips that generally require planning for an overnight campout somewhere

along the way.

El Camino Real Paddling Trail

This wide, slow-moving 6-mile trail will take you approximately 1.54 hours, depending on flow and stops for picnics or enjoying the scenery along the way. The trail was officially named in 2007, but it has always been a beautiful float and the perfect ride for those looking for a half day on the river. Only three other cities in Texas have received the prestigious trail designation. The El Camino Real Paddling Trail starts at Fisherman’s Park and ends at Lost Pines Recreational Trails near Tahitian Village. The El Camino Real Trail connects with the 14-mile Wilbarger Paddling Trail, which originates at the FM 969 bridge in Utley and will connect with the four-

mile Red Bluff Paddling Trail, which will start at Lost Pines Recreational Trails and end at ColoVista. Directions to take-out point: from Highway 71, look for the light at the junction of Loop 150 and Tahitian Drive on the east side of Bastrop. At light for Loop 150 and Tahitian Drive turn south onto Tahitian Drive. Follow 2.2 miles to end of road. Turn right onto Riverside Drive and continue for 1.8 miles past golf course and equipment shop onto gravel road (bearing left). Entrance to LPRT will be on left. Follow loop trail to river access point, look for Paddling Trails kiosk. The paddle trail is named for the El Camino Real de los Tejas, a land trail running between Mexico and Natchitoches, La., more than 300 years ago. The trail, which crossed the Colorado River at Bastrop,

was well-beaten by such historical figures as Moses Austin and his son, Stephen F. Austin, as well as Jim Bowie, Davy Crockett and Sam Houston. To learn more about the paddling trails visit, www.tpwd.state.tx.us/ fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/inland/bastrop

Planning a river trip

One of the most important elements of any river trip is planning ahead. Here are some tips to make your trip more enjoyable while staying safe: ■ Consider the weather when planning your river trip. Texas weather can change rapidly, particularly during the spring. Floods can occur quickly. The National Weather Service broadcasts continuous weather information, but to receive these transmissions you need a special

weather radio. Frequencies used for broadcasts are 162.400 from Austin to Bastrop, 162.500 from Bastrop to Eagle Lake and 162.425 from Eagle Lake to the Gulf. ■ Research as much information as possible about the stretch of river you wish to boat or canoe. Large-scale USGS topographic maps and aerial photographs are available from a number of sources including government agencies, particularly the Texas Natural Resources Information System (TNRIS) and map stores. ■ Call the LCRA for recorded lake and river information at 512-473-3333 or 1-800-776- 3333. This information can be used to determine if releases are being made from upstream dams to estimate how long your trip may take. ■ Decide on the length of your float trip and identify legal access points for launching and take out. For most people, 10 river miles are more than enough for a day trip. Know your abilities and limitations. Always plan to complete your run by dark. ■ Be sure to lock vehicles at both put-in and take-out locations and don’t forget your car keys. Become familiar with your take-out location by walking down to the river and taking note of signs or other landmarks. Whenever possible, talk to someone who has previously run that stretch of river. ■ Do not travel alone. If possible, have at least two boats per outing. At the same time, try to avoid mixing faster craft with slower ones. Always let someone know where you are going and your approximate return time. ■ Leave pets, firearms and valuables at home.

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FISHING

4 fishing havens within 15 miles of Bastrop County has 32 lakes and a major river to cast a lure into. Bastrop County is home to a total of 32 lakes, but the abundance of fishing holes can be found at Lake Bastrop, the Colorado River or in the ponds at two of the beautiful state parks. All four water havens are located less than 15 miles away from downtown Bastrop.

Lake Bastrop

Recently rated one of the top 10 bass lakes in the state by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Lake Bastrop was created in 1965 as a power plant cooling pond. Lake Bastrop is a high-quality bass lake, heavily stocked with Florida largemouth bass. Bass can be caught all year long, but the best bass fishing is February through June. During hot weather, fishing in the early morning is best. Later in the day, use deep diving baits. In cool weather, crank (rogues or spinner baits), jigs and spoons are good. For the night fisherman, lights are permitted. Use minnows for crappie. Some fishing restrictions do exist for Lake Bastrop. In addition to a Texas fishing license, fishermen must adhere to maximum limits on largemouth bass caught at the lake. Black stripe bass, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, yellow and flathead fish, perch and blue catfish inhabit the lake and are abundant in supply and size. Rainbow trout are not stocked at Lake Bastrop because the water is heated by use at the power generating station, making the lake too warm for trout to survive. The 906 surface acres

IF YOU GO LAKE BASTROP Located on FM 1441 and Texas 21 outside of the Bastrop city limits Entrance fees: $4 per day, per person 13 to 64 years; $2 per day per person over 65 years and older, disabled, retired and active military. Children 12 years and under are free. Boat access: There are two public boat ramps. One is located on FM 1441 and another is located on South Shore Rd. off Texas 21. License: Texas fishing license is required. BASTROP STATE PARK Located on Texas 21 and Loop 150 Park fees: $4 per day, per person 13 and older. Texas Parkland Passports available 65 years and older, veterans and disabled for $2 per day, per person. Texas State Parks Passes are available for $70 annually. Children 12 years and under are free. License: No Texas fishing license is required to fish at park ponds. BUESCHER STATE PARK Located east of Bastrop State Park and north of Smithville on 100 Park Road 1E off of FM153 Park fees: $4 per day, per person 13 and older. Texas Parkland Passports available 65 years and older, veterans and disabled for $2 per day, per person. Texas State Parks Passes are available for $70 annually. Children 12 years and under are free. License: No Texas fishing license is required to fish at park ponds.

Richard Crichton and his son, Samuel, enjoy fishing in Bastrop State Park. The park stocks perch, bass, crappie and catfish and a fishing license is not required to fish from a pier or shoreline. TERRY HAGERTY /

COLORADO RIVER AUSTIN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Runs through Bastrop and Smithville Boat access: Bastrop: Fisherman’s Park. Smithville: approximately 13 miles east of Bastrop on Texas 95. Utley Bridge: located on FM 969 approximately six miles west of the intersection of Texas 71 and FM 969. License: Texas fishing license is required.

of water make up a comfortable lake. There are plenty of hot spots with ample places for fish to thrive. The lake is located on FM 1441 outside of the Bastrop city limits. To get to Lake Bastrop, head north on Texas 95 and take a right on FM 1441. The Lower Colorado River Authority controls Lake Bastrop. Visit www. lcra.org for more information.

Colorado River

It’s hard to miss the Colorado River, flowing through the heart of Bastrop. Fishing, canoeing, kayaking, picnicking and photography are just a few of the pleasures that can be enjoyed on or near the river.

Fishing the Colorado is pleasant and productive for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Because the river is so lightly fished, there is an abundance of Guadalupe bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel and flathead catfish and perch. Additionally, because of the nature of the river, it is relatively easy to determine where the fish are located. Just look for deep holes and areas with “structure,” such as brush logs and submerged rocks. Some fishermen feel that the river’s fish are less “lure-wise,” and not as cagey as game fish in more heavily-fished areas. If you are interested in wetting your line in the Colorado River, there are

four public access points and fishing piers in Bastrop County. The most convenient to Bastrop is Fisherman’s Park at the west end of Farm Street, walking distance from downtown. There is shore access as well as a launching ramp. Wooden docks are also good places to pick a spot for a folding chair. Picnic and restroom facilities are available in the park. To the east of Bastrop is the Smithville boat ramp, located where Texas 95 crosses the Colorado River. Smithville’s ramp is approximately 13 miles east of Bastrop on Texas 95. The access road is on the northeast side of the bridge. To the west of Bastrop

on FM 969, near Utley, is the Utley Bridge. Below the Utley Bridge is a boat ramp and fishing area. The bridge is approximately six miles west of the intersection of Texas 71 and FM 969. The Colorado River is best navigated in a flat-bottom boat, canoe or raft. Gas and electric powered motors are allowed.

Buescher and Bastrop state park ponds For the angler with more exotic tastes, the pond at Buescher State Park is stocked with rainbow trout. The best time to catch rainbow trout is during the winter. During the summer, the heat makes the trout listless and unwilling to bite.

The best trout bait is salmon eggs and/or canned corn on a small perch hook. Fly-fishing is not very successful because of the lack of moving water. A fishing license is not required of anyone who fishes from the pier or shoreline inside a state park. Statewide bag and length limits apply whenever fishing and each park requires a daily entrance pass. Both park lakes also stock perch, bass, crappie and catfish. Since there are no boat ramps, anything that can be carried to the water such as canoes, kayaks and anything with a trolling motor is permitted. Neither park permits gas-powered boats.

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GOLFING

Bastrop area offers unique golfing options Several courses on display throughout the county. Yearning to practice your swing in Bastrop County? Not to worry, because there are several excellent courses available for your pleasure.

Pine Forest Golf Club

The Pine Forest Golf Club is uniquely situated in the hills and valleys along the Colorado River in Tahitian Village, located at 636 Riverside Drive. Designed by Bill Martindale and Dan January and completed in 1979, the 18-hole facility has been privately owned for the past 20 years. The goal has always been to provide a public course that is affordable and fun to play. The course is a challenge from the up tees at 4,966 yards or the back tees at 6,569 yards. It has practice areas, a fully-stocked pro shop and a snack bar providing breakfast, lunch and a great hamburger. They gladly host group outings and tournaments are willingly hosted. Memberships are affordable for individuals, corporations, driving ranges and on a trial basis. The Pine Forest Golf Club offers the largest ladies golf association in Bastrop County. The individual player can also find a game with various groups most any day of the week. More information can be obtained by calling the pro shop at 512-321-1181 or by visiting pineforestgolfclub.com.

ColoVista Golf Course ColoVista Golf Club winds through the surrounding residential community amid majestic vistas, providing golfers with challenging

A group of golfers chip in from the fairway toward the green during the World’s Largest Golf Outing at ColoVista Golf Course. There are several golf courses available for use in Bastrop County. TERRY HAGERTY PHOTOGRAPHY

terrain, subtle turns and treacherous optical illusions. The first nine holes are situated in the valley and gradually ascend to higher ground. The signature par-3, No. 15, features a 100-foot elevation change from tee to green, requiring golfers to be mindful of club selection. The massive Bastrop Complex Fire tore through the area in 2011, destroying one-third of the 6,596-yard public access golf course, as well as many ColoVista residents’ homes. The course reopened in 2013 under the management of Billy Casper

Golf, largest domestic owner operator of golf courses, country clubs and resorts. Annual memberships are available. For more information visit www. colovistagolf.com or call 512-629-4585.

Wolfdancer Golf Club

With a growing reputation as one of the most exhilarating public golf courses in the Southwest, Wolfdancer offers players three distinct terrains on which to test their game: rolling prairie land, a heavily wooded ridgeline and a river valley dotted with native pecan trees. Wolfdancer Golf Club,

whose name pays tribute to the local Tonkawa heritage of Central Texas, rambles over a dramatic stretch of terrain dotted with oak, cedar elm and pecan trees and cut by the Colorado River, which dramatically frames the right side of the layout’s superb finishing holes. Created by Arthur Hills/Steve Forrest and Associates, the 7,205-yard, par-72 Wolfdancer golf course opened in June 2006 and makes the most of the terrain’s natural beauty. Wolfdancer Golf Club, a public course, occupies some 150 of the sprawling

405-acre Hyatt Lost Pines, which opened in June 2006 as well. Wolfdancer Golf Club recently became a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in January 2012. The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses awards certification to recognize golf courses that protect the environment, conserve natural resources and provide wildlife habitats. Achieving certification demonstrates a course’s leadership, commitment and high standards of environmental management. Wolfdancer Academy of Golf offers individual

instruction and family and group clinics by PGA certified instructors. Wolfdancer Academy of Golf was established to promote and deliver a unique one-on-one customized golf learning experience. Annual memberships are available. Unlimited golf, use of driving range and practice facility, as well as discounts on other golf and resort amenities are included in family and individual memberships. Check wolfdancer golfclub.com or call 512-308-WOLF for more information.

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NATURE AREAS

Go beyond the state parks to enjoy nature Visit McKinney Roughs or Lost Pines Nature Trails. Feel like getting out and enjoying nature in a developed — but still completely natural — area? There are many places like that in Bastrop County. Two of the most enjoyable are McKinney Roughs and the Lost Pines Nature Trails Project.

McKinney Roughs

McKinney Roughs Nature Park is located 13 miles east of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. CONTRIBUTED BY LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY

McKinney Roughs is a 1,100-acre nature park where characteristics of four ecosystems — post oak savannah, blackland prairie, East Texas Piney Woods and a riparian zone — converge to create an unusual blend of natural resources. Located just west of Bastrop on Texas 71, McKinney Roughs is home to hundreds of plant and animal species living within the rolling box canyons, wildflower meadows and lazy river bends of the

Texas Colorado River. McKinney Roughs is a day use park where visitors can explore close to 18 miles of trails by foot or horseback (bring your own horse) or take part in one of the park’s many community programs. At the Visitors’ Center, pay your entrance fee and get the latest trail information. Peruse the gift shop and learn about the area’s indigenous species and why the “river is the reason” for the presence and protection of this natural area. There are plenty of events going on at McKinney Roughs, including: natural science programs, special event facility rental, challenge course, river trips and an awesome summer nature camp. For information or reservations call 512-3035073 or 800-776-5272, ext. 8021 or check the website at lcra.org/parks and look for McKinney Roughs under “developed parks.”

Lost Pines Nature Trails Project

The Lost Pines Nature Trails Project is a multi-phase project to develop recreational biking and walking trails on a 30-acre tract of land along the Lower Colorado River, adjoining and connecting 60 acres known as the Pines & Prairies Land Trust Colorado River Refuge. This ongoing project includes restoration of the wetland and riparian habitats, restoration of the existing trails, and continued development of ADA accessible trails on the property. Once completed, the two projects will encompass nearly 90 acres of riparian forest land. To get to the nature area, drive through Tahitian Village to Riverside Drive, turn right, drive past the golf course and bear left onto gravel road. For more information, check environstewardship.org.

DOG PARKS

Area’s dog parks a great place for family pets to run Bastrop and Smithville offer outlet for canines. Whether your dog needs to exercise, socialize or just get out and enjoy the sunshine, Bastrop County offers two offleash parks where dogs can let out some of that boundless energy.

Bastrop Bark Park

The Bastrop Bark Park, 104 Grady St., sits on more than an acre of grassy, tree-shaded land owned by the city across the street from the Bastrop Police Department

and behind the Grady Tuck building. The park includes two fenced-in areas — one for big dogs and one for smaller dogs — with waste stations, covered bench areas, drinking fountains and trash receptacles. The bark park was created by the city council, which put some funds into the project. Most of the funds came from private fundraising. The Bark Park includes a 6-foothigh fence, separate entry gates for big or small dogs, an exit area and 20 parking spots. Call the city Public Works Department at

512-332-8920 for more information.

Smithville Bark Park

Smithville’s dog park is a small, grassy fenced-in area that opened in 2009 after the community rallied with fundraisers. The park sits next to the railroad park and across the street from the Smithville Recreation Center. The park is a safe, contained place for dogs to frolic and offers play toys for dogs, a water trough and benches. Call the city at 512-237-3282 for more information.

Banner the dog enjoys the Bastrop Bark Park. JESSICA DUKES FOR BASTROP ADVERTISER

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ZOO

Visit Bastrop’s most exciting animal adventure Capital of Texas Zoo offers more than 500 events annually. Home to more than 500 rare and beautiful wild animals, the Capital of Texas Zoo is the largest and fastest-growing zoo in Central Texas with well over 400 family members enrolled with yearly memberships. Come visit Tank the Hippo and a herd of guinea pigs stampeding through their low-walled enclosure while Moses the camel and Rajah the Bengal white tiger continue to entertain guests. Within its intimate atmosphere, the zoo’s mission includes wildlife education and focuses on the conservation of endangered species, to provide visitors with a unique experience.

Some of the animals in the Capital of Texas Zoo’s collection are there on breeding loans and others are rescue animals. But zoo director Michael Hicks says the main focus of the zoo is on education. According to Hicks, the Capital of Texas Zoo performs the second-most educational outreach programs within the Central Texas area. With more than 500 events each year, it’s only slightly behind the Jack Hanna-affiliated Columbus Zoo. The events range from petting zoo displays to demonstrations with exotic reptiles, mammals and birds, each of which are fun and educational. The zoo is also available for field trips, with discounts for schools. Weekend shows are available Memorial Day

mended that you reserve a spot at least 48 hours in advance by email (info@ capitaloftexaszoo.org) or phone (512-657-2682). Pricing is $39 for adults and $29 for children under the age of 12. Beat the heat and plan to visit the zoo as the sun goes down. Hear a lion roar, a peacock call and all the rustling and moving creatures who call the night home. Many of the animals are much more active, and interactive, at night, so bring your flashlight. Director Michel Hicks says the main focus of the Capital of Texas Zoo in Bastrop County is education. Among his is teaching tools is coati Kiki. KELLY WEST / AMERICAN-STATESMAN 2011

through Labor Day at 10:30 a.m. for the bird show “Wings” and 2:30 p.m. for the famous reptile show featuring Mr.

Slithers. Tours are also available by reservation only. Tour numbers are limited to 15 people, so it is recom-

If you go

■ Open 365 days a year, including holidays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During spring and summer, the zoo will stay open later on Fridays and Saturdays till 8 p.m. Check its website for exact dates.

■ Admission is $9.99 for adults and $7.49 for children under the age of 12. Children under the age of 2 are free. All major credit cards accepted. Tickets can also be purchased online. If paying online, bring the printed receipt as proof of purchase. ■ Membership prices for family (parents and children; or grandparents and grandchildren) are $69 annually and $24 for individual annually. ■ The park is at 376A Jenkins Road, off Texas 71 and South Pope Bend Road. Turn onto South Pope Bend Road from Texas 71 by Cedar Creek High School and follow signs to the zoo. ■ For more information, call 512- 303-6675 or visit their website at www.capitaloftexaszoo. org.

DINO PARK

County’s Dino Park provides trip into prehistorical world Creature replicas are life-size with realistic features. Spend the day with the majestic animals that once ruled the earth for over 150 million years. The Dinosaur Park features a unique outdoor museum setting. Compared to most museums that have dinosaur skeletons, its realistic life-size dinosaur replicas show skin and color variations to give a better understanding as to how they looked when alive. The statues range in size from the 2-foot long Compsognathus to the newly added 85-foot long Brachiosaurus. The tree-lined nature trail through the Dinosaur Park offers visitors a look at fauna similar

to that of the prehistoric times — making it easy to imagine dinosaurs in their natural environment long ago. How about a 10-foot Coelophysis or a seven-ton Triceratops staring you in the face with nothing standing in their way? Do not worry, dinosaurs are extinct, remember and you won’t find them walking about the grounds. But you can find additional birds, fossils and giant insects hidden along the route. The park showcases 18 dinosaur replicas, each life-size and with realistic features. Each replica is custom-made and built to order. There is no dinosaur replica wholesale shop, so the Nunez family hires

custom sculptors to build each one. Other activities include a fossil-dig sand pit for young aspiring paleontologists and a T-Rex head for some seriously frightening photo-ops. There is also a playground, picnic area and gift shop stocked with dino-themed toys, games, books, shirts and much more for young dinosaur fans. The Dinosaur Park is owned by Daniel and Linda Nunez. In 2002, when their 3-year-old son developed an interest in dinosaurs, they scoped out places they could bring their child that would be educational, yet fun and enjoyable. They wanted a place where dinosaurs appeared to be in their own natural environment,

while also allowing the kids a space to run and play. “When we couldn’t find exactly what we were looking for, we decided to build the Dinosaur Park for our kids and for your children, too,” Linda Nunez said. The Dinosaur Park opened at the end of 2005. “We enjoy adding and changing things each year as we continue to grow,” she said. “We hope that all families will enjoy our nature park as much as we do.” The Dinosaur Park is open weekends yearround, with additional days added for spring and summer. Admission is currently $7 per person and children younger than 24 months get in free.

IF YOU GO

■ The Dinosaur Park is open weekends yearround, with additional days added for spring and summer. See calendar on website for details. ■ Admission is currently $7 per person. Children younger than 24 months get into the park for free. ■ The Park is located on Union Chapel Road off Texas 71 in Cedar Creek. After passing the traffic light at Cedar Creek High School, take the next left U-turn onto Union Chapel Road. Once facing the Highway 71 RV Park turn immediately left and look for the sign and driveway. ■ For more information, call 512-321-6262 or visit their website at www.thedinopark.com.

Finn Albrecht isn’t afraid to climb into this T-Rex jaw at Dinosaur Park in Bastrop County. MAURI ELBEL FOR ACN

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MUSEUMS

Past not forgotten in Bastrop County History, heritage of the area recorded in museums. Bastrop Museum and Visitor Center

Bastrop has a new resource where visitors can explore a myriad of opportunities available in Old Town Bastrop and throughout the region. Residents — new and old — can learn about the history of Bastrop or get assistance for historical or genealogical research, and tourists can find an excellent starting point in Bastrop. The new facility at 904 Main St. (the previous site of the Bastrop City Hall) was dedicated on Jan. 26, 2013, as a state-of-the-art visitor center and an historical museum. The 1930s building, originally a fire and police station, has been beautifully restored for its current use. Since its establishment in 1952, the Bastrop County Historical Society has worked diligently to collect and preserve materials and documents related to the history of Bastrop and Bastrop County. Museum artifacts span more than 200 years — from when Native Americans foraged through the area to the present. Six years ago, the BCHS established a new strategic plan. Its mission to “preserve and promote the history of Bastrop County” set a principal goal of instilling Bastrop history into every community activity and outlined several key objectives. Those included expanding the museum and the diversity of participation in BCHS, engaging the local business community in efforts and increasing local tourism. The former visitor center was opened in the spring of 2006 in the Old First National Building.

Visitors gather information at the front desk at the Bastrop Museum. The new visitor center and history museum opened in 2013.

Thanks to the support of the City of Bastrop, a federal appropriation and donations from a broad array of local businesses and individuals and several successful fundraising events, BCHS was able to open the doors this year in the new facility. The visitor center is fully operational and is open daily in the heart of Main Street. The first museum exhibit titled “The Colorado River” has proved popular, along with other current exhibits: El Camino Real de Tejas, a Timeline Exhibit, the Lost Pines Exhibit and a combination Baron de Bastrop/Stephen F. Austin exhibit which entertains, educates and reinforces the knowledge that Bastrop history is Texas history. Other exhibits include or will include Historic Homes, Settlers, Fight for Independence, Cotton, Cattle, Coal and World War II/Camp Swift. Visitors can see artist renderings of future exhibits and several temporary exhibits throughout the

building. A popular exhibit is Bastrop’s first fire truck, a 1915 Brockway, donated by the Bastrop Fire Department. Downstairs in the new building is the BCHS research library that contains books, publications and files on the history of Bastrop County — its towns, its communities, its historical homes and families. Cemetery records, family files and other documents are available for research. There is also an extensive photograph archive with more than 2,400 historical photographs. The Museum and Visitor Center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. The library archive is available 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Group tours may be arranged by calling 512303-0057.

Paige Museum

Located just off of Highway 290, the Paige Museum packs a lot of history per square inch and can be described as a

“labor of love.” The tireless effort of the late Doris Laake, a beloved former member of the community, comes to mind. The project began in 1993 with the re-location of the original town depot to the present site. A second structure, mainly portions of the historic Fischer home, was later added to accommodate growth. Wander around amongst reconstructed bedrooms and dining rooms, layouts of the old general store, volumes of photos and writings and school books, a plethora of wayback farm tools and farm knick-knacks, a bunch of strange machinery that makes perfect sense upon explanation, and a military room that follows local warriors from the American Revolution up to present day. A must see if you’re chasing personal family roots, researching oldtime Texas history or just interested in a holistic view of frontier life in the country. An amazing collection ... and even more amazing once you real-

ize that the place is comprised of donated items, labor and affection from a community that rightly adores the roots that founded us all. Contact Micky Meyers at 512-253-1111 for tour information.

Rockne Museum

One of the first projects of the Rockne Historical Association, which formed in 1990, was to establish the Rockne Museum. In 1993, a room in Holtman Hall, the church’s reception hall, was designated as the museum at the corner of county roads 535 and 233. Land was acquired and a ground breaking ceremony for the new museum building took place in April 2002. It was completed a year later, and dedication of the new museum took place on June 14, 2003. It holds hundreds of antiques, artifacts, historical books and papers that reflect that the German Catholic heritage of the town as well as its later cultural developments. In fact, the Rockne community went by the

TERRY HAGERTY / ACN

name of Hilbigville from 1922 to 1931 until it was given the name Rockne. Email rwt@rocknetexas.com for hours and information.

Smithville Heritage House & Museum

Containing artifacts and photos from Smithville’s early days, the Smithville Heritage Museum at 602 Main St. 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. Tours are available by appointment and can be made by calling 512-237-4545.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Building a Better Chamber Community... On the banks of the Colorado River, in the heart of the Lost Pines of Central Texas, Bastrop’s historic district offers a delightful selection of specialty shops, art galleries, restaurants and inns. Our tree-filled neighborhoods contain more than 100 historic homes — most of them listed There are spectacular golf courses,

on the National Register of

a river for kayaking, a lake for

Historic Places — and many

boating plus hiking trails and

are beautifully restored.

parks galore! Across the river from downtown is our commercial district, brimming with growth and activity, and with hotels offering great accommodations and amenities.

in Bastrop!

Please “excuse our mess” as overpasses are constructed along State Highway 71 to reduce traffic congestion while increasing safety. Partnering with the City of Bastrop in communicating these changes to our members and beyond is part of our goal to build a stronger, more vibrant Chamber Community.

512.303.0558

927 Main Street Bastrop, TX 78602 BastropChamber.com

The Bastropian 2015-2016

POOLS

Keep cool at area pools Bastrop State Park, Elgin are the places to be on hot days. Two public swimming pools are available in Bastrop County and are a good way to cool off on a hot summer day in Texas — one at Bastrop State Park and another in Elgin.

Bastrop State Park

The public pool at Bastrop State Park underwent an historic switch in management with the YMCA taking over operations from state park personnel in early 2012. The pool and the nearby historic refectory building fortunately survived the Labor Day 2011 wildfires that swept through much of the rest of the park. The 365,000-gallon pool typically opens in

early May, and is open through September, with a varied schedule (see below). The pool offers lap swimming and swim lessons. Membership in the YMCA offers benefits for pool use, including no entry fee, exercises classes and discounts for programs — but access to the pool by the public does not require a Y membership. The pool is also open for group rentals. Entrance fee for the public is $5 for all ages, or $3 with a state park pass. Pool hours for May and latter September (after the Labor Day weekend) are: Monday through Thursday, lap swim and water exercise from 7-10 a.m. and 6-8 p.m. Open swims for May and latter September are only on Friday, Sat-

urday and Sunday. The schedules for those days are: Friday, 7-10 a.m. lap swim, 5-8 p.m. for open and lap swim; Saturday and Sunday, open and lap swim from noon to 8 p.m. The fuller schedule for summer – June through Labor Day – is: Monday through Friday, lap swim from 7-9 a.m.; water exercise and swim lessons from 9 a.m. to noon; open and lap swim from noon to 8 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, open and lap swims are from noon to 8 p.m. There are swim lessons, water exercise and additional lap swim before noon. For more information on pool schedule, call the pool at 512-321-3740; for more information on offerings by the YMCA, call the Bastrop office at 512321-9622 or see www.bastropYMCA.org.

The Bastrop State Park pool has more than 100 visitors a day, according to staff. The pool is currently open to the public seven days a week. ACN NEWSPAPERS

Morris Memorial Park

Elgin’s municipal pool, located on North Avenue C, opens Memorial Day weekend and remains open for a full schedule through Aug. 24, and then has limited operation from Aug. 25–Sept. 1. Admission fees are free

for toddlers up to age 5; $2 for everyone else. A swim pass is $65 for 55 entries. The pool offers swim lessons, day-care swims, water aerobics, lap swim and pool party reservations. Pool hours are Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to

5:45 p.m. and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. Hours from Aug. 25 through Sept. 1 are weekends only – Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. and Sunday, from 1-6 p.m. For more information, call the pool at 512-2815724, ext. 23.

YMCA

Bastrop YMCA brings community together, keeps growing Organization works to give members programs they want.

Master John So practices tai chi with Tracy Huber at the Bastrop YMCA Kerr Center, where So teaches a tai chi and self-defense class on Thursdays and Fridays. SARAH ACOSTA / AUSTIN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Since 2011, the Bastrop YMCA has become an integral part of Bastrop County through its unique mix of community-based recreational and family programs. Located at 1112 Main St. in downtown Bastrop, the Bastrop Y offers members great values on YMCA health and wellness, youth development and aquatics programs. Membership benefits include unlimited access to the Bastrop State Park pool, free group and water exercise classes, and priority program registration. Y members also receive substantial discounts

on youth and adult programs, summer and holiday camps, and swim lessons. “Creating the Bastrop YMCA has truly been a community effort, and it started with our partnership with the city of Bastrop,” says Terry Moore, Bastrop YMCA executive director. “Every step of the way, we’ve listened to our neighbors to find out what programs they want, and we’ve worked to find a way to provide them.” Bastrop YMCA membership rates are $57 per month for an adult, $74 per month for a couple and $80 per month for a family. As a community-based nonprofit organization, the YMCA also offers financial as-

sistance to anyone who wants to participate in Y programs, but cannot afford the fee. To support this effort, in 2014, the Bastrop Y raised more than $50,000 for neighbors in need. At the Bastrop State Park pool, the YMCA offers its members and day visitors extended hours, quality lifeguards and lap swimming. Swim lessons, water exercise and open swimming take place at the historic pool. The Bastrop Y also offers a range of community events such as Movies in the Park, Healthy Kids Day and the Burning Pine 5K run. For older adults, the Y offers an array of programs suited to their particular needs and

abilities. “I have enjoyed and continue to enjoy a variety classes that the Bastrop YMCA has to offer,” says Maria Sebert, a Bastrop Y member. “The classes that I participated in — A Matter of Balance, Water Aerobics and Senior Fitness — have enabled me to regain confidence in my physical abilities. As a result, I can now walk without a fear of falling.” Moore says this is just the beginning. “We look forward to growing and expanding our programs and facilities,” she said. “Our goal is to be here for a long time.” For more information, call 512-321-YMCA (9622) or visit www.BastropYMCA.org.

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Experience Elgin CELEBRATE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

SIP SHOP & STROLL 2nd THURSDAY EVERY MONTH 5-8

Western Days 4th Week of June

Hogeye Festival 4th Saturday of October

Holiday by the Tracks 1st Saturday of December

The Bastropian 2015-2016

MUSIC

Live music scene thrives in Bastrop

Brenda Bush, owner of Brenda’s 1441 Bar and Grill, welcomes the crowd to an annual BACA Lost Pines Chapter fundraiser. ACN NEWSPAPERS / FILE

Lots of venues, touring acts or local bands to enjoy. Live music in Bastrop County continues to mushroom, from Paige and Elgin, down to Smithville and Bastrop. Papa Woody’s, in Paige, just north of U.S. 290, opened in January 2012 and features many well-known Texas musicians, such as Roger Creager, as well as local talent, such as The Watts Brothers Band, The Shop Dawgs and the Peterson Brothers. Other music-hall mainstays continue to occasionally offer touring and local music acts – such as Watterson Hall, The Lumberyard, Gracie’s in downtown Bastrop and the newer Brenda’s 1441 Café (on FM 1441), plus The Old Town Restaurant and Bar (the former Cyndi’s Downtown). There are many area bars, restaurants, outdoor festivals and other community-sponsored events that are often supplemented with music. Many of the local music stand-

bys have also increased the frequency of their live music events. And there are a fair amount of “open mike” nights, too. Quoffer’s in Elgin is one of a handful that offers amateurs a fun night of singing to programmed music and/or with veteran musicians doing the backing on instruments. In addition, the recently opened Front Room Wine Bar in downtown Smithville often has music on the weekends. Nestled in the heart of Smithville’s historic Main Street, The Front Room aims to not only be a place for locals but to also become a destination for travelers from Houston, Austin or other surrounding cities. The owners are looking to further partnerships with select bed and breakfasts and other lodging properties in order to keep out-of-towners in Smithville to explore the rest of the city. It’s located at 116 Main St. Visit frontroomwinebar.com for more information. Listed below are many — but not all — of the

A crowd at Gracie’s on Pine Street enjoys the music of Slim Bawb. BASTROP ADVERTISER

live music venues around the county. Since entertainment venues sometimes open and close without notice, or revise their music schedules in the course of a month or year, other options for finding out about current live music happenings are the various chamber of commerce website listings for individual towns, checking local newspapers for weekly listings and watching for music notices often pasted up on the windows of local businesses. One Bastrop listing – www.musicinbastrop. com — is centered around The Lumberyard’s offerings, but also lists live music available at other spots.

Music venues

American Legion Post 533, 3003 Loop 150, Bastrop; phone: 512-3215555. Karaoke, live music Brenda’s 1441 Café, 395 FM 1441, 512-321-3199, live music Charlie’s in Smithville, 1200 NE Loop 230, phone: 512-237-3382,

The Front Room Wine Bar often has music on the weekends. The business, nestled in the heart of Smithville’s historic Main Street, aims to not only be a place for locals, but to also become a destination for travelers from Houston and surrounding cities. CONTRIBUTED

open mike, live music Grace Miller (Gracie’s) Restaurant, 706 Pine St. in Bastrop; phone: 512-332-2991, live music Lumberyard Music Hall, 1109 Main St., Bastrop; live music dates posted out front. See

website for schedule: musicinbastrop.com. Maxine’s on Main, 905 Main St., Bastrop; phone: 512-303-0919; live music varies The Old Town Restaurant and Bar, 931 Main St., Bastrop, phone 512-321-1171; karaoke, live

music Ronnie’s One Oak Bar, 816 FM 1441, Bastrop; phone: 512-3210016, live music varies Bastrop VFW Post, corner Texas 21 East and FM 1441, occasional live music.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

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The Bastropian 2015-2016

VENUES

Need someplace for that special event? City boasts facilities and venues big and small.

“American Idol” producer Ron DeShay (left) and former “American Idol” contestants Ruben Studdard and Pia Toscano perform during the finale of the 2013 Sounds of Sharing concert at the Jerry Fay Wilhelm Performing Arts Center. The center has a main theater that seats 1,500, a separate Black Box Theater that seats up to 200 and a third space, the Green Room, that accommodates up to 100 people.

Bastrop Convention Center

Opened in spring 2011, the city of Bastrop’s new convention and exhibit center is nestled in the heart of the Bastrop’s historic district and beautiful Main/Chestnut streets, close to the Colorado River. This full-service facility hosts conventions, trade shows, corporate meetings, weddings, concerts, arts events and banquets. During the historic Bastrop County Complex Fire in Sept. 2011, the convention center served as the main headquarters for all first responders, including firefighters, law enforcement, EMS and state/federal agencies, plus media. The 26,000 squarefoot facility can accommodate up to 750 banquet-style and 890 theater-style seats in the main ballroom. The center also includes a bridal room, multiple meeting rooms and additional outdoor-venue space. Rental rates include room, tables and chairs.

Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center

The Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1401 Cedar St., across from Bastrop High School. It is owned and operated by the Bastrop Independent School District. The 65-ft-tall building, with an impressive lobby with a large glass-framed outer wall, allows in plenty of pleasing daylight. It is the first performing arts center in Bastrop County, as well as its tallest building. The center has a main auditorium/theater that seats 1,500, a separate Black Box Theater that

BASTROP ADVERTISER 2013

seats up to 200 patrons for intimate productions; and a third space — the Green Room — that accommodates up to 100 people. The facility’s large lobby/foyer space can be used for catering and special events for up to 72 patrons. The steel-framed facility is built with brick, stone and stucco veneer. The lobby is a wood beam and decking structure enclosed with the glass-curtain wall. The project was completed on schedule and more than $10,000 under budget. The designer, Pfluger Associates Architects and the construction contractor, Bartlett Cocke General Contractors, built unique acoustical features into the facility to mitigate potential sound/ noise control challenges from a nearby railroad track. The team designed and built an insulated double-layer sheetrock ceiling approximately 50-feet above the finish

floor to dampen sound.

Red Rock Community Center

The Red Rock Community Center was originally built in 1929. It is located at 114 Red Rock Road. The center is one of the main focal points of the community, hosting family reunions, weddings, receptions, baby showers, business meetings and seminars, and “just about anything else,” according to supervisors of the center. The non-profit center is community owned, under the name of The Red Rock Community Center Inc., and operated by an elected board of directors. The center has room for up to 75 people inside, has a full kitchen and bathroom facilities. Outside, there are two acres of a grassy area — which serves as a play area for youth, space for booth setups, as well as parking along a circular entrance road. There is also a covered pavil-

ion that is often used as a barbecue area. One of the biggest annual events is the Old Schoolhouse BBQ/Chili Cookoff the last weekend in January. The popular event is hosted by the Tolbert Chili Society and Lone Star BBQ. Rental fees for the Red Rock Community Center are $150 for all day; and lesser fees for partial-day rentals. For more information, call 512-321-4222.

Watterson Hall

Watterson Hall, at 1179 Watterson Rd. in Red Rock, is an historic community building built in the early 1950s. It is owned and operated by Leroy and Betty Wilhelm. The venue has beautiful wooden floors — the kind that are perfect for two-stepping with your favorite dance partner. Many well-known Texas bands have played the hall, which holds up to 300 people. Typically, the hall is open on Saturdays for live music about

once or twice a month. It is also available for rental for private gatherings, business meetings and such. For rental-fee information, call the Wilhelms at 304-5860 or 303-2664.

Paige Community Center

Originally founded as the Paige Private School Society in 1895, the community center is a sweet blend of the antique and modern. The former schoolhouse boasts a full working kitchen and a spacious communal room that easily handles most any get together, from basic club confabs to advanced boot scooting. Outdoors you’ll find a covered pavilion, including bandstand, an old style BBQ shed and a playground for kids of all ages. Located just steps away from the newly founded city museum, a local bed and breakfast, and most of downtown, for

that matter, the center is ideal for meetings, weddings, reunions or just plain ruckus. Indeed, this historic locale has run the gamut from graduating kids to housing fire victims to operating local voting booths. The price for the whole facility starts at $250, and scales downward from there, depending on the scope of your event. Contact Kathrine Beeman at 512-253-5086 for more info and booking arrangements.

Kerr Community Center

Built in 1914, the Kerr Community Center, 1308 Walnut St. in Bastrop, known earlier as Kerr Hall, is arguably the most important remaining structure reflecting the early 20th century history of the African American community in Bastrop. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a Bastrop Historic Landmark. In 2003, leaders of the Kerr Community Center Association joined forces with the Bastrop County Historical Society to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to preserve and revitalize the old Hall. The fully-restored Kerr Community Center building was formally rededicated on February 3, 2008. The Center has two spaces available for use by the community, including downstairs (60 person capacity) and upstairs (25 person capacity). The upstairs is reserved for adult KCC member use by reservation only. If you are interested in renting the center for an event or gathering, please contact Elroy Williams at 512-304-5361 or Linda Greene at 512308-1048 for more information.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Something’s happening in Smithville!

Airport ~ Gigabit City ~ Tours ~ Community Theater ~ Farm to Bottle Distillery

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Buescher State Park Bryan / College Station

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San Antonio

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BASTROP COUNTY

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Skate Park & Disc Golf Guinness World Record Gingerbread Man

Events

Trades Day Outdoor Marketplace 3rd Saturday 2015 Casino Night & Buffet July 25 City Wide Garage Sale Oct. 3 Oct. 11 Texas Photo Festival Airing of the Quilts Nov. 14 Tour of Homes Nov. 14 Festival of Lights & Parade Dec. 5 2016 Smithville Jamboree April 6-10 Empty Bowl Project April 16 Thunder on the Colorado Biker Rally May 6-8 Airport Fly-In & Lunch May 14

Colorado River ~ Festivals ~ Art ~ Antiques ~ Shopping ~ Dining ~ Lodging Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce

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The Bastropian

2 0 15 - 2 0 16

The Bastropian

2015-2016

The Bastropian 2015-2016

COVER STORY

Transformer initiative more than meets the eye It’s part of effort to make Bastrop an art destination. Brightly colored artwork is popping up around historic downtown Bastrop in unexpected places. Inconspicuous electric transformer boxes one day and colorful works of art the next. A vintage postcard. An astronaut. A flowing river. They all help, well, transform Bastrop into a burgeoning arts community that is drawing an increasing amount of both residents and visitors. “It is an unexpected pleasure when you turn a corner and find a piece of art where you would not expect it to be,” said Teresa Saunders, a member of the Bastrop Art in Public Places task force. The transformers initiative is a part of a larger effort by the city and task force to make Bastrop an art destination in Central Texas, said Deborah Johnson, chair of the task force. And soon, it very well may be. More and more art galleries have taken up shop along Main Street. An arts center and sculpture garden is on the horizon. And the city has made public art one of its priorities. Saunders said she brought the idea for the transformer art to the task force last year. “The city was so welcoming to the idea, it didn’t take long to get it all turned around,” said Saunders, who co-chairs the transformer project for the task force along with Kathryn Nash. “I can’t say enough about the city’s cooperation and their approval.” In the first round, six artists were picked to paint electric transformer boxes around town after submitting their art-

Deborah Johnson, chair of the Bastrop Art in Public Places task force, sits with “The Conspirators” a sculpture in front of City Hall, which is one of the installations the task force brought into the city. JILLIAN BECK PHOTOS / BASTROP ADVERTISER

‘The city was so welcoming to the idea, it didn’t take long to get it all turned around. I can’t say enough about the city’s cooperation and their approval.’ Teresa Saunders Member of the Bastrop Art in Public Places task force

swirls, just behind Main work ideas. Others startStreet near Wells Fargo ed work in April to paint Bank. eight more boxes, which Clad in a paint-speckJohnson said she hopes to led button-up and armed be complete by June. with a paint roller, BaldBastrop resident Ginwin started her second ger Baldwin was chosen to paint in both rounds — piece of public art on a last year, her artwork was sunny day in April. This a collage of detailed cowboy boots and turquoise Cover continued on 30

Bastrop resident Ginger Baldwin begins painting one of the transformers throughout the city. Her artwork will consist of vintage pickup trucks, based on a pastel painting she created.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Cover continued from 28

time around, her transformer will be based off a pastel painting she created of vintage trucks. “I think it’s a nice idea for any place,” Baldwin said of the transformer project, as she rolled on a bright blue hue for the sky. “For Bastrop, it adds to its charm.” Art has become a larger part of Bastrop in recent years. The Bastrop Art in Public Places task force, which formed in 2011, chose artists from across Texas and the Southwest to create sculptures around the city. The city and the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation infused hundreds of thousands of dollars into the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild’s Lost Pines Art Center and Sculpture Garden. The center may break ground as early as October, said Karol Rice, project director and member of the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild. And the Bastrop City Council recently approved almost $68,000 to fund artwork on the sides of the planned Texas 71 overpasses. For many, the benefits of art in the community are two-fold. “The endeavor of art in public places is that the art be free and part of the community,” Saunders said. “But any place where you have art collectively like that is going to be a draw for the economy of the town.” Just down the road from Baldwin’s work, Sara Lee Hughes carefully touched up her work on a transformer. She painted the box into a postcard, depicting the Bastrop County Courthouse and reading “Greetings from Bastrop: The most historic small town in Texas” in brightly colored letters. Hughes, who teaches basic drawing courses at Texas State University in San Marcos, said she heard about the

Bastrop resident Ginger Baldwin was one of six local artists chosen to paint an electric transformer box as a part of the Bastrop Art in Public Places project last year. She’s painting another nearby this year. JILLIAN BECK PHOTOS / BASTROP ADVERTISER

transformer project from a colleague who saw the call for artists. She and two of her former students started a business called Shop Girls, where they provide custom artwork such as murals and theater backdrops. All three of them submitted artworks based off of postcards with different versions of the courthouse through the years. Hughes and one other were picked. While Hughes was working on the transformer art, she said people stopped in their cars on Chestnut Street would talk to her through their windows. Passersby would stop by and talk to her about the work in progress. “Not to sound totally cliché,” Hughes said, kneeling in front the transformer, paint splattered on her jeans as she painted, “but it sure does bring a community together.”

Texas State adjunct professor Sara Lee Hughes puts some finishing touches on the transformer she is painting, which is a postcard from Bastrop with the county courthouse.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

WALKING TOUR

Get an intimate look at Bastrop’s history It’s a chance to see meaningful city businesses up close. Southwest side of Main Street

1. Begin your tour at the Bastrop Visitor Center at 904 Main. In 1894, a small building dubbed “Fireman’s Hall” was placed in the middle of the street. It was a small structure that accommodated two hose cards, one hand engine and a bell. By 1920, the building had been expanded and had become the center of city government. In 1930, complaints about the poor condition of the building prompted city leaders to build a new City Hall together with a building to care for the fire apparatus. The new building, made of brick, cost $7,500. It was remodeled in 1947 and covered with stucco. In 2012, the building was extensively renovated and is now the Museum and Visitor Center of the Bastrop County Historical Society. Here you will find information about dining, shopping and recreation in the Bastrop area and view exhibits detailing the history of Bastrop County. 2. The building at 906908 Main served as Bastrop’s post office for more than 50 years. Built in 1897, the building started out as a meat market, and in 1906 became the post office under the direction of postmistress Mrs. Sally Brooks. In the 1940s, the interior wall was opened up to make one large post office to better serve the needs of the growing community and the soldiers of Camp Swift. Throughout the 1960s, the combined buildings served as the city library. Today, the two buildings have different owners and the

open interior wall between them is once again closed. 3. The building at 912 Main was the shop of tailor William Kesselus in 1891. Take note of the original casts iron columns and pressed tin cornices with urn finials. An ad at the time read, “Wm. Kesselus, merchant tailor. Patterns for sale and cut to order. Also agent for Wilson’s sewing machines, oils needles and fixtures. Sewing machines of all kinds repaired on short notice and liberal terms.” Carl Kleinert owned the building at 910 Main, also built in 1891. 4. In 1891, the building at 914 Main was Miller’s Barber Shop. The barber shop is the longest running business with the same usage. Stop by for an old-fashioned straight-razor shave and haircut! 5. Built together in 1895, the buildings at 918 and 920 Main were called the Knittle Buildings after the local shoemaker and his two sons who owned them. The buildings became brick between 1906 and 1912, and served as a shoe store for many years thereafter. 6. The building at 926 Main dates back to 1905. 7. The Citizens State Bank Building, 928 main, was built circa 1909-1911, an example of American Beaux Art/Neoclassical Revival style. The building is noted for its two large arched windows as well as the simple parapet and tin cornice with dentils and brackets. The bank’s long-time president, Paul D. Page, used the upper floor as a law office until his death in 1945. Page and Congressman Lyndon B. Johnson were the leading forces in bringing Camp Swift to Bastrop The Citizens State Bank occupied

this building until 1974. 8. On the corner, you will see the Nelson Burch Building at 930-932 Main Street, constructed after the 1862 fire. Its pitched roof blew off in a storm years ago. The building was completely renovated in 2011. The building immediately behind the Burch Building, at 603 Chestnut, was built in 1933 when Tom Powell Haynie, who had obtained the exclusive Chevrolet dealership, razed the frame buildings on this lot and replaced them with brick. From 1972 to 1980, this building served as the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Beyond this building is a steel bridge, built in 1923, affectionately known as the “Old Iron Bridge,” however the iron bridge was torn down in the 1930s.

Northwest side of Main Street

9. J.C. Buchanan built a one-story building at what is now 1002-1004 Main in 1880. The building was divided in half and, over the years, both halves passed through the hands of many Bastrop families. For the first time in 24 years, both halves now belong to the same owner. The 1004 half, vacant for over 30 years, was restored in 2007 and is now a restaurant. 10. The restaurant at 1006 is in the Erhard building, built in 1895. Notice the original pressed tin ceiling of its awning, the tiled entry displaying the name “Erhard” and window moldings made of brass. 11. Just a step away is the two-story 1883 Charles R. Haynie building, which features an ornate parapet. 12. At 1016 Main is the 1889 First National Bank

of Bastrop, built of local brick and lumber. The building served as a bank until 1953. The building’s current owners are the father and uncle of actress Hilary Duff. 13. Three doors down, toward Spring Street, is the R. A. Green Mercantile, 1022 Main. This building, circa 1890 was renovated in 2008 by the Calvary Episcopal Church and is now home to several art galleries and shops. 14. Turn right and follow Spring Street to the Bastrop Opera House at 711 Spring Street. Built in 1889, it was the Strand Theatre during WWII and the Teen Tower in the 1950s. Restored in the 1980s, live performances of vaudeville, melodramas, musicals and comedies once again delight audiences.

Northeast side of Main Street

15. Return to Main and turn left. At 1025-1027 Main is Elzner’s Corner. The building on the corner is the largest commercial structure downtown. A cistern was uncovered during its renovation. Merchandise would be transported to Bastrop via ferry, delivered to the home of P.O. Elzner, which was near the river, then delivered to this store. Next door is the 1895 A. A. Elzner Mercantile building, currently First National Bank. 16. At 1009 Main Street is the old Iron Front Saloon building. The Amthors were owners, along with a partner, Willie Bell. Historical records indicate Willie Bell shot a policeman and, as a consequence, the business floundered and the Amthors lost everything. Otto Amthor retained access to the Main Street building, however, and subsequently ran a li-

quor store there from the mid-1930s through World War II. 17. At one time the buildings at 1005 and 1007 Main served as space for Pearcy & Booth, which sold both ladies’ and gents furnishings. 18. W. J. Miley built and opened a drug store at 1003 Main in 1905, complete with a soda fountain which is still in operation. This site has been occupied since 1855 when it served as the office of Dr. David Sayers, father of Texas Governor Joseph Sayers. Now it is Lock Drug, Texas’ oldest drug store.

Chestnut Street

Cross Chestnut Street and turn left. 19. At 717 Chestnut is the Julius Theilman building, built in 1892. Inside is a staircase instructing ladies not to proceed as, during World War II, soldiers would often rent costs to “sleep it off ” before returning to base at Camp Swift. 20. The T.A. Hasler building at 931 Main was built in the 1870s. Hasler arrived in Bastrop as a penniless teenager; however, at the time of his death in 1909, he was a prominent merchant and property owner. The land and buildings at the corner of Main and Chestnut Streets, still called Hasler’s Corner, became the centerpiece of his enterprises and included a saloon, funeral home, dry goods store, grocery store, warehouse and the town’s general store. Bastrop’s first volunteer fire department members posed for this early photograph in front of the Hasler Building. 21. Continue on to a restaurant located in the 1890s Louis Eilers building. An award-winning restoration, this building was once a butcher shop.

22. The building at 913 Main was the shop of Michel August Prokop and his brother who were shoemakers. The shelves which once held boots and shoes are still in place. 23. Next door, at 909 Main, is the Bauhoff building, now a chiropractic clinic, built mid to late 1800s. 24. At 905 Main is the Leon Wertzner building which served as a Western Union office in WWII. Turn left on Pine Street.

Pine Street

25. On the corner of Water and Pine Streets is the old County Jail, built in 1891, a masterpiece of late 19th century second empire Victorian. It was also the site of several hangings and still has the infamous “hanging hook” on its second floor. 26. Adjacent to the jail, at 804 Pine, is the Bastrop County Courthouse, which was built in 18831884 and altered substantially in the 1920s. 27. This pre-1887 building was originally a one-story commercial building housing many businesses over the years. It has been a beauty shop, a saddler, a dentist office and was a “flophouse” during WWII. The second story was added about 1920, and served as the meeting place for the Woodmen of the World Lodge.

Southeast side of Main Street

28. Return to Main Street and turn left. A restaurant is housed in the oldest commercial building at 811 Main, built in 1846 as a storeroom. 29. Apothecary’s Hall at 805 Main was built in the 1830s on the site of one of Bastrop’s early businesses which carried the same name.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

HOSPITALS

Big names in medical care available locally Seton, St. David’s are well known in central Texas.

Seton Smithville Regional Hospital’s illuminated sign is off Texas 71 in Smithville.

Bastrop County visitors and residents who find themselves in need of medical attention can put their treatment in the hands of two of Central Texas’ biggest health care names: St. David’s Healthcare and Seton Healthcare Family.

ACN NEWSPAPERS

Mike Turner, Maureen Tanner and Cathy Turner provide a glimpse of what’s usually available at the Bastrop Senior Center’s bazaar. Proceeds from that event and others help make the facility self-sustaining and keep the monthly dues low. WES GARDNER/ ACN NEWSPAPERS

Not ready for the rocking chair? Visit Senior Center

St. David’s Emergency Center — Bastrop

St. David’s Emergency Center — Bastrop is a full-service, stand-alone emergency department that’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The center is under the medical direction of Dr. Corey Jones, who has more than 10 years of experience in the field, having previously served as chairman of emergency medicine and medical director at St. David’s Medical Center in central Austin. The center is staffed by experienced, board-certified emergency room physicians and trauma-certified nurses and features the equipment to handle emergencies ranging from sports injuries and snake bites to respiratory distress and heart attacks to strokes and head injuries. They also provide outpatient X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds and lab draws with notes from a physician. Between October 2012 and April 2013, the center administered more than 650 free flu vaccines. St. David’s Emergency Center — Bastrop is located at the site of the former Lakeside Hospital, 3201 Texas 71 East in Bastrop. Its phone number is 512816-2300, while its website can be found at stdavids.com under the “Locations & Facilities” tab.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES

IF YOU NEED HELP Smithville Regional Hospital: 800 Texas 71 East, Smithville, 512-237-3214, seton.net/ locations/seton_smithville_regional_hospital/ St. David’s Emergency Center: 3201 Texas 71 East, Bastrop, 512-816-2300, stdavids.com/ locations-facilities/emergency-center-bastrop. aspx

Seton Smithville Regional Hospital

Located off Texas 71 just east of downtown Smithville, Seton Smithville Regional Hospital offers a diverse range of services, from diagnostic imaging to physical therapy to intensive care, in addition to emergency treatment and inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures. Seton Smithville’s commitment to providing good treatment for patients begins before they even walk through the door. At the end of 2012, the hospital ER launched a new, online registration system designed to cut down waiting times for patients with less severe injuries or ailments. Instead of waiting in the ER to get treatment for a sprained ankle or other non-life-threatening com-

plaint while higher priority patients are treated, residents can log in to SetonER.com and designate an arrival time to allow themselves to wait in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible before coming to the facility. The system is designed to recognize key symptoms and patterns in order to recommend that patients seek immediate care in the emergency room. In addition to the hospital, Seton operates Seton Riverbend Home Health and Towers Nursing home in Smithville. Seton Smithville Regional Hospital is located at 800 E. Texas 71 in Smithville. Its phone number is 512-237-3214. Look under Our Locations at www.seton.net for more information.

Cards, dancing, crafts are among the activities. Looking for someplace in Bastrop with live music? Maybe you need a place to exercise? What about cards, crafts, multiple types of dancing and a coffee pot that’s usually warm? If any of those are the case, and if you’re eligible, then maybe you should try the Bastrop Senior Center, where the only requirement for membership is a little bit of life experience. “We’re not a political organization,” says co-activities director Kathy Turner. “We’re not a religious group.” Instead, she says, the Bastrop Senior Center is a strictly social club, a place of recreation and education for its nearly 250 members. Joining Turner as co-activities director is Deb Orr. Even the one prerequisite for membership is designed to be inclusive. The Senior Center has a generous — depending on how close to the qual-

ifying age you find yourself, perhaps you might think it’s too generous — definition of “senior,” with anyone over the age of 50 eligible to join once they pay their $25 annual fee and fill out an application. The activity calendar and newsletter each month showcase the wide variety of potential activities members have to choose from. Group exercise moves into bridge, which transitions to painting. Line dancers cede the floor to cloggers. One so-called national game of Texas, the “progressive” version of the domino game Texas 42, gives way to card players dealing hands of — what else? — Texas Hold ’em. The calendar and newsletter are available online or in the Senior Center office. The first Thursday of each month is a potluck lunch. Speakers are brought in once a month to discuss health tips, nursing care or other topics of interest. The Kitchen Pickers have been playing their regular Tuesday night engage-

ment for years. A cadre of quilters, around 30 of them, practices their craft each Monday morning, making quilts that are raffled to raise money for the Senior Center or donated to the Children’s Advocacy Center. Turner says they’re happy to show the ropes to any novices who might be interested. Revenues from the quilters’ raffles help take care of a portion of the center’s small costs of operation. Turner says the center is self-sustaining and has no staff to pay. Volunteers prepare meals in the kitchen, staff the office and perform other tasks around the center, keeping overhead down and monthly dues low. The center is overseen by an elected board. The Senior Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with occasional special events in the evenings or on weekends. It’s located in downtown Bastrop at 1008 Water Street. For more information, visit bastropseniorcenter .com or call at 512-3030072.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

301 Highway 71 West, Suite 100 * Bastrop, TX 512-321-0909 * Toll Free 1-866-375-0909

Full Service Christian Bookstore Offering Many Items To The Communities of Bastrop County

Store Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm Sat: 10am-5Pm * Closed Sun www.LivingRoomBookstore.com Bibles/Books/Gifts/Music/ Childrens Products/Apparel/Church Supplies

Summer Fountain Enid Wood

RIVER VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

We are a grower’s only market! “To get foods any fresher, you would have to grow it yourself!” Shop for locally grown fresh vegetables, fruits, pecans, meats, eggs, honey, plants, flowers herbs, breads, bakery goodies, gourds, gifts, candy, flower arrangements, handmade crafts & gifts, and more…

Elgin Saturday Open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 109 Depot, Main/Veterans Park

Buy Green. Buy Local. Eat Fresh.

We invite YOU to Come Join Our Market

www.rivervalleyfarmersmarket.com • 817-929-2789

908 Main Street Bastrop, Texas 78602 (512) 581-1799 ArtConnectionsGalleryBastrop.com background: Fossil Sky by Kendra Kinsey

The Bastropian 2015-2016

SHOPPING A Perfect Image Salon 944 Highway 71E, Bastrop 512-303-1488

A Place for Your Stuff 114 Flea Market Road, Smithville 512-237-2275 www.aplaceforyourstuff.com

Alizé — The Premiere Salon 802 Spring St., Bastrop 512-581-3999

Apothecary’s Hall Antiques 805 Main St., Bastrop 512-321-3022

Art Connections Gallery 908 Main St., Bastrop 512-581-1799 www.artconnectionsgallery bastrop.com Art Connections Gallery is located at 908 Main St. in a lovely, historic building. It features the paintings of owner Deborah Johnson as well as the works of more than 90 other artists. The artwork is in a variety of mediums from knitted clothing to handmade furniture, ceramics to jewelry. For the customer looking for decorative art for home or office, there is a large collection of pottery, mosaics, glass and fiber. For the serious art collector, there are sculptures in bronze and stone and paintings in oils, pastel and watercolor. Those looking for personal or gift items should check out the jewelry, handmade books, scarves and cards and stationery. The gallery also carries books by local writers and CDs by local musicians. The gallery also has a line of unique “Bastrop-themed” items. The motto of the gallery is “where art becomes heart,” because 10 percent of every sale goes to charity. Each artist has designated the charity to benefit from their sales and these range from local charities that support organizations like the food pantry, animal shelter and fire recovery and rebuilding to nation and international charities. The gallery takes part in the monthly First Friday Art Walk, a reception with wine, food and live music from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Art on the Colorado 924 Main St., Bastrop 512-234-5300 www.facebook/Artonthe Colorado

Colorado River Winery, 707 Chestnut St., offers an Old World-style tasting room where you can relax, sip wine and also purchase the wines produced by the winery or buy wine-related items and gifts. CONTRIBUTED

Artmakers Collective 1022 Main St., Bastrop www.facebook.com/artmakers collective

Ardantiene Massage and More 105 N. Hasler Blvd., Bastrop 512-308-5074 www.ardantiene.webs.com

B&B Auto Supply 1101 Chestnut St., Bastrop 512-321-2122 www.bandbautosupply.com B&B Auto supply is owned by Jim and Jessica Attra and has been in business 15 years. The store has been remodeled, allowing

for a lot more space. They sell auto supplies and farm equipment and have a full-service small engine sales and service department. According to Attra, B&B is the only locally owned auto supply store in Bastrop and has been voted first place in the Best of Bastrop County contest for the past eight years in a row. They pride themselves on the best customer service. Open seven days a week. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market 1302 Chestnut St., Bastrop www.bastrop1832farmersmarket.org

Bastrop Bling Company 705 Pine St., Bastrop 512-308-1109 www.facebook.com/BastropBling

Bastrop Emporium 1022 Main St., Bastrop 512-762-4998 www.facebook.com/bastrop emporium

Bastrop Fine Arts Guild 815 Main St., Bastrop 512-321-8055 www.bastropfineartsguild.com

Bastrop Florist 806 Chestnut St., Bastrop 512-321-2424 www.bastropflorist.net

Bastrop Gardens 316 Old 71, Cedar Creek 512-303-5672 www.bastropgardens.com Twice as many Americans are practicing home gardening as did last year and most of those are looking for safe, healthy, organic ways to make the most

of their efforts. And they are finding that organic gardening and landscaping can be done on a smaller budget than they supposed, yet yield spectacular results. At locally owned Bastrop Gardens Organic Garden Center and pick-your-own farm, that success can be had at a reasonable cost while getting experienced knowledge from a person who has directed native and water-wise landscapes all over Bastrop County. Deena Spellman, owner of Bastrop Gardens, has more than two decades of retail nursery experience in addition continued on 36

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Bastroipng

Homecom o & Rode

July 28 thru August 2 tHREE Nights of Music and Rodeo Friday night: Cody Johnson Saturday night: Wade Bowen

We want to welcome you back to Bastrop for the Weekend… or to visit Bastrop for the first time. Food & Arts/Crafts Vendors Class Reunions • Sports Reunion Carnival • Grand Parade Mike MathiSon MeMoRial hoRSeShoe touRnaMent 4-H Cake Auction Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament FRed WRiGht, JR. MeMoRial GolF touRnaMent

FREE Shuttle to Mayfest Hill event

Bastrop Homecoming and rodeo P.O. Box 215 • Bastrop, TX 78602 www.bastrophomecomingrodeo.org

904 Main Street

OPEN DAILY Museum - 512.303.0057

BastropMuseumandVisitorCenter.com

Visitor Center - 512.303.0904 VisitBastrop.com Discover the history of Bastrop County! Visit the museum gift shop! Ask about our group tours and events!

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Art Connections, located at 908 Main St. in a historic building, features the paintings of owner Deborah Johnson as well as the works of more than 90 other artists. The shop offers everything from pottery to sculptures for home, office or serious art collectors. CONTRIBUTED

SHOPPING continued from 34 to her botany/biology degree and vo-tech degree in nursery management and landscaping – experience not found in big-box stores. And in Bastrop Gardens’ 17th year serving Bastrop County, their employees know what works here and the organic amendments and locally crafted soils to make the plants work best and treat your budget well. Now, Bastrop Gardens has added a new feature — a labyrinth of stone. Our Heirloom Tea Room (with free Wi-Fi) is another destination attraction. For an extraordinary garden experience, come visit Bastrop Gardens, where you will find inspirational

demonstration gardens and the advice necessary for a successful gardening experience. Bastrop Gardens is more than a garden center — it’s a destination for the entire family. They were also runner-up 2014 Best of Bastrop County Best Landscapers category.

Bastrop Goldsmith Silversmith 1001-A Main St., Bastrop 512-838-1361

Bastrop Heritage Designs P. O. Drawer X, Bastrop 512-308-2213 www.facebook.com/bastrop heritagedesigns

Best Friends Boarding Kennels 2438A FM535 Rosanky, TX 78953 830-839-4581 549 Union Chapel Road Cedar Creek, TX 78612 512-332-2400 Best Friends Boarding Kennel has two locations. Best Friends in Rosanky is located one mile west of Highway 304 on FM 535. Established 20 years ago, it has become known as a place where folks can feel comfortable knowing that their pet is safe and loved. Best Friends Too, established five years ago, is a second location conveniently located in Cedar Creek on Highway 71. Dogs, cats, birds and

exotics are thrilled to stay at either location. All rooms are air conditioned to provide comfort in the summer heat and when winter rolls around the rooms are heated. Both locations boast a full service grooming salon for grooming, bathing and nails. Visit our website www.bestfriendsboarding.com for details.

Bits n Pieces Thrift Shop 4107 Highway 71 East, Bastrop 512-332-0028 www.facebook.com/thrifty bastrop

Country Cherry Boutique 606 Highway 95 Suite 4, Bastrop www.facebook.com/countrycherryboutique

Cripple Creek & Company 928 S. Main St., Bastrop 512-332-2477 www.cripplecreekcompany.com

Colorado River Trading Company 1022 Main St., Bastrop 512-988-9191 www.facebook.com/colorado rivertradingco

Colorado River Winery 707 Chesnut St., Bastrop 628-227-0710 www.coloradowinery.com Colorado River Winery proprietors Brad and Sylvia Cook have remodeled 707 Chestnut St. in Bastrop into the Colorado

River Winery. The Colorado River Winery is the first winery in Bastrop. The winery is using juice from Texas and other areas to produce their wines on site. The winery has a tasting room in the Old World style where you are able to relax, taste, sip, swirl and purchase wines produced by Colorado River Winery or shop for unique wine-related items as well as gift items for yourself or for your friends. The Cooks plan to keep things fresh and fun with new introductions of different types of both red and white wines, made in small batches. The wines will only be available while they last, but the continued on 38

The Bastropian 2015-2016

BlueBonnet Campground Weekly & Monthly rates only RV spots Cabins & Rental units – Furnished Primitive Camping (Nightly rates) WiFi Cable TV iet

307 FM 1209 BASTROP, TX. 78602

(512) 332-2267 (CAMP)

www.bluebonnetcampground.com

GeorGe reinemund AGency Owners

Have you thought about renting your home? We can help. With over 20 years experience in property management, we can help with providing background checks, collecting monies, managing maintenance needs and paying the bills.

Sellers/Buyers

Spinning • Weaving • Knitting Crochet • Felting Yarns, Fibers, Threads & Accessories We customize classes and workshops for groups of 2 to 20

Do you have or are you looking for a new home, ranch, small tracts, or commercial property? We have the agents to fit your needs. We have been SELLING Bastrop since 1972.

Renters

Looking for just the right place to rent? We have the perfect place for you! We have a varying inventory to fit your needs. Let us help you find the right home to enjoy.

George Reinemund, Broker Sherry Schena, Assoc. Broker, Realtor 702 Chestnut St., Suite 200 Bastrop, TX 78602 512-303-5709 www.georgereinemund.com

Ready to Move?

We’re Ready To Help!

130 Gonzales Street, Paige, TX 78659 www.yarnorama.com - 512-253-0100

WINKLER & COMPANY REALTORS

Full-Time Full-Service Texas Real Estate Brokerage: Real Estate Sales & Marketing

Susan Noguès BROKER/OWNER/ REALTOR ®

512-913-9463 cell snogues@sbcglobal.net Search all Central Texas listings @

SNRealEstate.com 512-321-9463

Buyer & Seller Representation Property Management Transaction Assistance

SUSAN NOGUÈS Real Estate

(512) 281-3336 1111 Hwy. 290 E www.WinklerTeam.com

The Bastropian 2015-2016

River Valley Farmers’ Market, 109 Depot St. in Elgin, has furnished the residents of Bastrop County with fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits for 30 years. RVFM is a growersonly market, which means that they grow what they sell. They have fresh vegetables, fruit, pecans, breads, baked goods, eggs, meats, plants, flowers, gourds, herbs, crafts and more. CONTRIBUTED

SHOPPING continued from 36 winery keeps a group of wines in stock that can be purchased at any time. You might even want to join the Wine Club and get some “extras” that will only be available to Wine Club members. Stop by and see them and enjoy some wine. They can be contacted by phone at 682-227-0710 or by email at ColoradoRiver Winery@austin.rr.com. Like them on Facebook at Colorado River Winery or check out their website at ColoradoRiver Winery.com. Special events will be posted on Facebook and on the website. Currently, the winery is operating seven days a week, Monday through Thursday and Saturday noon to 6 p.m.,

Friday noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

Cornelius Wellness LLC – Plexus Weight Loss System Darlene Cornelius — Ambassador #153785 512-801-8285 Darleneplexus777@gmail.com http://www.darlenecornelius. myplexusproducts.com Consider the following: 95% of all diets and weight loss programs fail. 8 out of 10 Americans older than 25 are overweight. 174 million Americans are overweight. The worldwide number is expected to double by 2030. Finally, there is a healthy solution

to help you lose weight. The synergistic effect of Plexus Slim and Accelerator+ taken together can help you lose more weight faster than you ever thought possible. Experience quick results and keep the weight off. People around the country are experiencing amazing results, and you can, too! Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

www.facebook.com/Dixies DenOfAntiquities

Dan’s Guns Stuff LLC

The Home Source

1299 Highway 21 East, Paige 512-308-9697 www.dansgunsandstuff.com

1547 Highway 71 West Cedar Creek, TX 78602 512-308-9200 www.bastrophomesource.com

Dixie’s Den of Antiquities 100 Alum Creek Road, Smithville 512-363-9639

The Flower Shoppe.biz 75 Loop 150W, Bastrop 512-303-0303 www.theflowershoppe.biz

Hollyhocks & Hand-Me-Downs 805B Main St., Bastrop 512-321-3022

JR’s Furniture & Mattress 1116 Hwy. 71 W., Bastrop

512-820-9791

Ladd’s Coin & Jewelry

Karol Rice Photography & Fine Art Printing

566 Highway 95 North, Bastrop 512-321-4937 www.laddscoins.com

1404 Pine St., Bastrop 512- 565-6912 http://www.bastropfineartsguild.com/artists-and-theirwork/karol-rice/

Kragh’s Jewelry 485 Texas 71, Bastrop 512-321-2351

Ladies of Charity Thrift Shop 1209 Pine St., Bastrop 512-321-9819 www.facebook.com/LOCThriftStoreBastrop

Liberty Glenn 1011 Main St., Bastrop 512-581-0501 www.libertyglenn.com

Living Room Books & Gifts 301 Highway 71 West, Suite 100, Bastrop 512-321-0909 www.livingroombookstore.com Living Room Christian Books & Gifts will celebrate 10 years in Bastrop in November. We have been in business more than continued on 40

The Bastropian 2015-2016

L. WAYNE ROSS, D.D.S. 708 Pecan St. Bastrop, TX 78602 Wayne Ross, Dentist 512.303.2188 / 321.2188

For more information about our winery, please call or visit us online.

Enchant Your Palate We put forth extraordinary effort to produce extraordinary wines. Come sample some of our favorites with a visit to our family-run winery and tasting room.

707 Chestnut Street, Bastrop

(682) 227-0710 /ColoradoRiverWinery

GENERAL DENTISTRY FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY SINCE 1978

www.coloradoriverwinery.com

Office Hours: Mon & Tues, Thurs & Fri 8-5/Closed Wed

Paw-Pawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catfish House Historic Downtown Bastrop 1014 Main St, Bastrop, TX 78602

Great Catfish, Shrimp, Burgers, Deep Fried Deviled Eggs & Much More. 512-321-9800 www.pawpawscatfishhouse.com

The Bastropian 2015-2016 tified Farmers Market by the Texas Department of Agriculture. Credit cards accepted by some vendors. Check rivervalleyfarmersmarket. com for more information.

SHOPPING continued from 38 36 years. We have continued to increase product selection each year. There is a wide range of inspirational gifts to choose from and the popular Laser Engraving machine makes even a larger selection possible for the customer. Each of the P. Graham Dunn laser-able gifts makes a unique gift for any special occasion. Customers have expressed their enjoyment in finding great inspirational gifts without having to drive to Austin. Although the gift department has grown considerably, the best-selling items are still books. Some of the categories you will find include Bibles, Christian Fiction, Music, Videos, Apparel, Jewelry, Church Supplies, and other Resources. We also have a half-price book section which grown over the past year. Whether you are looking for something to grow your faith, encourage a friend or need new resources for Sunday school or Bible study, we can help. If you don’t find what you are looking for, the staff will do their best to get it for you.

Sears 735 Old Austin Hwy, Bastrop 512-321-9600 www.searshometownstores.com

Second Chance Children’s Resale 804 Water St., Bastrop 512-985-5474 www.Secondchancebastrop.com

Skeeters Joys 1022 Main St., Bastrop 512-968-7512

Sugar Shack 114 Loop 150 W., Bastrop 512-321-3777

The Thrift Stop 412 FM 20, Bastrop 512-773-0661 www.thethriftstop.com

Timber-N-Steel Mac Brothers Construction 512-968-7327 www.QualitybarnsInTexas.com

Liza Jane

Turquoise Salon and Spa

918 Main St., Bastrop 512-321-2910

141 Tahitian Drive, Bastrop 512-985-6170 www.turquoisesalonandspa.com

Lost Pines Toyota 806 Highway 71 West, Bastrop 512-303-1200 www.lostpinestoyota.com

The Magpie Trading Co.

Yarnorama, 130 Gonzales St. in Paige, has a huge selection of yarns, weaving and crochet threads, accessories, patterns, books and more. The shop, which also offers classes, even has spinning and felting fibers, spinning wheels and spindles. CONTRIBUTED

909 Chestnut St., Bastrop 512-988-8439

Milton’s Home of Fine Furniture & Appliances 206 NW Loop 230, Smithville 512-360-3262 Miltonsfurniture.com Milton’s Home of Fine Furniture & Appliances is your hometown store for name brand, quality furniture and appliances since 1948. Traditional, contemporary, modern, country and Texas styles can be found in our showrooms and large warehouse for every room in your home. Furniture brands for our living room and bedrooms include Lane, Broyhill, LaZBoy, Jackson, Franklin, Riverside, Vaughan-Bassett, Best, Largo, Liberty, Paula Deen, Better Homes and Gardens, Pulaski, Universal, Butler and more. On top of our living room showrooms, we also have a large selection of recliners in stock, including power and power lift recliners for

Wilson Jewelry Exchange 5010 Burnet Road, Austin 512-451-2105 www.wilsonjewelryexchange.com

Yarnorama those who need a little extra assistance or crave a little luxury. We Texans love our leather and Milton’s has got the furniture to prove it. While we also carry other fabric options, there are many patterns, colors and styles to choose from and we’ll help you choose exactly what you want in your home with our custom order capability. Milton’s carries the sleep-inducing foam and plush pillow top mattresses from Sealy and Corsicana in king, queen, full and twin sizes. We’ll even dispose of your old mattress when we deliver your new one. We also carry a full line of appliances from GE and Hotpoint for the kitchen and laundry, and we still service what we sell. Milton’s carries children’s furniture, office furniture and lighting and accessories. To see our current in stock selection, please

visit our showroom or check out our website. We are pleased to work with families as well as contractors. If what you want isn’t in stock, we’ll be glad to order it for you. Milton’s has easy-term financing available so that you can live in the home you love. Milton’s was named 2011 Business of the Year by the Smithville area Chamber of Commerce and first place in the furniture category of the Best of Bastrop County for the past several years. The business is operated by three generations of the Milton’s family, and are observing their 67th year. Visit out our showroom before heading to the big city. We’re just 12 miles east of Bastrop off Highway 71. Remember, we finance, service and deliver what we sell.

Mosaic Art & Home 218 Main St., Smithville

512-360-2531 MosaicArtandHome.com

“OH WOW!” 920 Main St., Bastrop The Bridges Building 512-718-0800

Pinesong Art Gallery 920 Main St., Bastrop 512-985-7314 www.pinesongartgallery.com

Relics Jewelry & Gifts 1022 Main St., Bastrop 210-863-9773 www.facebook.com/relicsjewelry

River Valley Farmers’ Market 109 Depot St., Elgin 817-929-278 www.rivervalleyfarmersmarket. com

River Valley Farmers’ Market has furnished the residents of Bastrop County with fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits for 30 years. RVFM is a growers-only market, which simply means that they grow what they sell. They have fresh vegetables, fruit, pecans, breads, baked goods, eggs, meats, plants, flowers, gourds, herbs, crafts and more. Visit them soon and discover how good fresh food really is. They always welcome new vendors to the market. Craft vendors are invited as well. For information on how to join the River Valley Farmers’ Market, call President Eileen Niswander at 817929-2789 or check the website for an application and to view the rules and regulations. RVFM is a member of Go Texan, Texas Certified Farmers Markets Association and the chambers of commerce for Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville. They are also recognized as a Cer-

130 Gonzales St., Paige 512-253-0100 www.yarnorama.com Yarnorama is the payground for the fiber-obsessed! They have been open in Paige since March 2008. You’ll find a huge selection of yarns, weaving and crochet threads, accessories, patterns, books and more. You will also find spinning and felting fibers, spinning wheels and spindles, kits, a lot of weaving looms and all the tools you could ask for. They have classes, too, and can schedule them for individuals, groups and parties. They love to support local dyers and artisans and are the home of FiberObsessions, an inspired line of yarns and fibers, each hand-dyed in small dye lots. In addition to many knit, crocheted and woven shop models to inspire your next project, they have some finished hand woven items for sale.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Bastrop Juneteenth

Join us in Historic Bastrop for a weekend of history, culture and fun!

celebrates

150 Years

A Family Event

1865 • Galveston, Texas • 2015

3rd Weekend in June Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual holiday in 14 states. Originating in Texas, it commemorates the day freedom was proclaimed to all slaves in Texas by Union General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas.

A Celebration of Freedom Gospel Musical

June 14, 2015 – 4:00 p.m. Paul Quinn AME Church 1108 Walnut St. Bastrop, TX 78602

Blue Flame Cruisers Car Show

Bastrop City Hall – 8:00 a.m. 1311 Chestnut Street Bastrop, TX 78602

For more details about participating Visit our webpage

www.bastropjuneteenth.com

Juneteenth Celebration Banquet June 19, 2015 6:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center 1408 Chestnut Street Bastrop, TX 78602

Emancipation Program

June 20, 2015 – Noon Kerr Community Center / Park 1308 Walnut Street Bastrop, TX

Parade

June 20, 2015 – 10:00 a.m. Historic Downtown Main Street Bastrop, TX 78602

Street Dance

June 20, 2015 – 8:00 p.m.- 11:00 p.m. Historic Downtown Main Street Bastrop, TX 78602

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Custom order your omelet at breakfast at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa’s Firewheel Cafe, located in Bastrop. CONTRIBUTED BY MAURI ELBEL

DINING Anita’s Mexican Restaurant

Cedars Mediterranean Grill

1004 Main St., Bastrop 512-303-9693

904 College St., Bastrop 512-321-7808 www.cedarsmedgrill.com

Bassano Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria 141 Tahitian Drive, Bastrop 512-321-3393

Baxters on Main

El Nuevo Mexico Tex-Mex Bar & Grill 201 Childers Drive, # 201, Bastrop 512-321-1800

919 Main St., Bastrop 512-321-3577 www.baxtersonmain.com

Grace Miller/”Gracies”

Billy’s Pit BBQ

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines

110 Texas 71 W. 512-321-6453

575 Hyatt Lost Pines Road, Bastrop 512-308-4704 www.lostpines.hyatt.com Though it’s just down the road, Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort

706 Pine St., Bastrop 512-332-2991

and Spa feels a world apart – offering Bastropians a great escape for a few days, a weekend or even just a meal. With 491 rooms, this luxurious Texas wilderness escape stretches out across 405 acres with adjacency to the 1,100-acre McKinney Roughs Nature Park. The resort pays homage to the music that has made this part of Texas famous, as well as the heritage and culture of the Lost Pines region. Throughout the resort hallways and gathering spaces, beautiful artwork tells the stories of Texas literary greats, historical figures, artists and musicians. Beyond a deep connection to its roots, Hyatt Lost Pines offers plenty of amenities: the Crooked River Water Park with a waterslide and lazy river;

the world-class Spa Django and Wild Hare Youth Spa; an 18-hole Arthur Hills-designed golf course; horseback riding, archery and trap shooting; river rafting, kayaking and zip-lining; Camp Hyatt for kids; and dining experiences that range from casual to fine. Other activities include horseshoes, disc golf, biking, hiking, nightly s’mores, movies under the stars and live music several nights a week. The resort is also home to the Hooves and Horns Mascot Program, featuring four Percheron draft horses, two Texas longhorns, two alpacas and two miniature donkeys.

LaHacienda Restaurant and Bar

Paw-Paw’s Catfish House

LaCabana Mexican Grill

Maxine’s Café

1014 Main St., Bastrop 512-321-9800 www.pawpawscatfishhouse.com https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Paw-Paws-CatfishHouse/219142998218699 Locals and out-of-towners alike are flocking to Downtown Bastrop to visit Paw-Paw’s Catfish House. The service is outstanding and the food even better! It’s old-school cooking at its best. Have you ever eaten a Deep Fried Deviled Egg? Well, once you go to Paw-Paw’s, you will brag about them to your friends! Paw-Paw’s has something for everyone. Their specialty, delicious fried catfish is straight from

719 Highway 71 West, Smithville 512-237-2385

113 Central Ave., Elgin 512-229-4002

continued on 44

1800 Walnut St. 512-308-1100 www.lahaciendabastrop.com

Maxine’s Café 905 Main St., Bastrop 512-303-0919 www.maxinescafe.com

Maxine’s Bakery & Catering 1507 Chestnut St., Bastrop 512-412-6090

The Bastropian 2015-2016

GREEN-MILLS & ASSOCIATES Let Us Show You the Way Home! The strength of a National Company, the ease of working with local Realtors.

Our Clients Come First bastroptexasrealestate.com Mary Ann Green, Realtor® 512-626-5308 • Ann Starling, Realtor® 512-680-3354 Robert Page, Realtor® 512-629-3020 • Travis Sword, Realtor® 512-496-7409 Billie Vallem, Realtor® 512-663-7690

108 Industry, Bastrop, TX 78602

magreen@austin.rr.com

r Arena D

For a clear vision on real estate Call Us 512-303-2020

Chetnut St

150

95 Indu

stry

The Bastropian 2015-2016

DINING continued from 42 Paw-Paw’s recipe from the 1950s. It’s 100 percent American farm raised and always gluten-free. In fact, most of the food is created using the same recipes the owners enjoyed as kids. They also serve fried jumbo shrimp, ½ lb. burgers, huge chicken tenders and great salads. Paw-Paw’s serves cold beer, wine and margaritas as well. Be sure and save room for the Chocolate Chip Brownie Sundae or the Banana Pudding. They have great weekday lunch specials and are open TuesdaySunday. Catfish & Cold Beer, Now that’s American! We’ll “See ya’ at the House.”

Ramos #2 Mexican Restaurant 710 Chestnut St., Bastrop 512-321-4003

Roadhouse Burgers 2804 Highway 21 East, Bastrop 512-321-1803 www.roadhousebastrop.com

Simply Sweet 1010 Main St. 512-321-01122 www.SimplySweetBastrop.com

Viejo’s Tacos y Tequila 811 Main St., Bastrop 512-988-7544 www.viejosbastrop.com

Paw-Paw’s Catfish House, 1014 Main St. in Bastrop, is known for its old-school family recipes. CONTRIBUTED

Advertise in the Bastrop Advertiser. Call (512) 321-2557 bastropadvertiser.com

The Bastropian 2015-2016

10:30 a.m. Sundays!

Christians… …Seeking God’s will… …Serving God’s people… …Sharing God’s love… …in our community.

Family Life Center 202 HWY 71 W Bastrop parking & entrance on east side

our host – Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

call (512) 581-8376 BastropPresby.org Facebook.com/ShepherdOfThePines

Bastrop Church of Christ 287 FM 20 • Bastrop, TX

First United Methodist Church

(approximately 1 mile south of Hwy 71 West)

We welcome all Denominations A Bible centered church

www.bastropcoc.org

• • • •

Sunday school for all ages Community outreach Children’s and Youth ministries Adult fellowship and Bible study

512-303-4597

• Active Youth Ministry • Mother’s Day Out Ministry (www.aboutaschool.blogspot.com) Tuesday & Thursday 8:30 am-2 pm – Mother’s Day Out

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Traditional at 8:30 and 11:00 am Contemporary at 9:45 am

Sunday Worship Services 9:00 am - Bible Study 10:00 am - Worship 6:00 pm - Worship

1201 Main Street, Bastrop TX 78602

(512) 321-2201

www.fumcbastrop.org

Pastor Richard Leggett

Minister Johnny Bond, wife, Dawn, daughter Rebekah and son Dalton.

Wednesday Evening 7:00 pm - Bible Study

The Bastropian 2015-2016

LODGING Bluebonnet Campground 307 FM 1209, Bastrop 512-332-2267 www.bluebonnetcampground. com

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Road, Bastrop 512-308-4704 www.lostpines.hyatt.com Though it’s just down the road, Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa feels a world apart – offering Bastropians a great escape for a few days, a weekend or even just a meal. With 491 rooms, this luxurious Texas wilderness escape stretches out across 405 acres with adjacency to the 1,100-acre McKinney Roughs Nature Park. The resort pays homage to the music that has made this part of Texas famous, as well as the heritage and culture of the Lost Pines region. Throughout the resort hallways and gathering spaces, beautiful artwork tells the stories of Texas literary greats, historical figures, artists and musicians. Beyond a deep connection to its roots, Hyatt Lost Pines offers plenty of amenities: the Crooked River Water Park with a waterslide and lazy river; the world-class Spa Django and Wild Hare Youth Spa; an 18-hole Arthur Hills-designed golf course; horseback riding, archery and trap shooting; river rafting, kayaking and zip-lining; Camp Hyatt for kids; and dining experiences that range from casual to fine. Other activities include horseshoes, disc golf, biking, hiking, nightly s’mores, movies under the stars and live music several nights a week. The resort is also home to the Hooves and Horns Mascot Program, featuring four Percheron draft horses, two Texas longhorns, two alpacas and two miniature donkey.

Lake Bastrop Lodge. CONTRIBUTED

Lake Bastrop Lodge 1127 Hwy. 21 E., Bastrop 512-303-5253 www.lakebastroplodge.com

Pecan Street Inn 1010 Pecan St., Bastrop 512-321-3315 www.pecanstreetinn.com

Rose Garden Village 116 South Lentz St., Red Rock 512-303-0969 www.rosegardenvillage.net

9E Ranch Cabins Lost Pines, Bastrop 512-497-9502 www.9eranch.com

Peacan Street Inn. CONTRIBUTED

Free horse-drawn wagon rides at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa in Bastrop. CONTRIBUTED BY MAURI ELBEL

The Bastropian 2015-2016

Salon for Men, Women and Children located in Historic Downtown Bastrop

In-Depth Bible Teaching

(512) 321-6694

1005 Chestnut, Bastrop Open Tuesday-Saturday Gift Certificates - Jewelry - Large selection of Professional hair products

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Adult and Children’s Bible Classes

Sunday 9:00 & 10:30 AM Wednesday 6:30 PM 512-237-3733 lostpinesbiblechurch.org

Find the Value of your Property

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(512) 921-6350

The Bastropian 2015-2016

CHURCH DIRECTORY AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL Paul Quinn A.M.E. Church, 1108 Walnut, Bastrop. 512- 303-9033 Union Chapel A.M.E. Church, 308 W. Texas 21, Bastrop. 512308-9815 St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 310 Lee St., Smithville. 512-237-3456

ASSEMBLY OF GOD First Assembly of God, 609 Pecan St., Bastrop. 512-303-5442 Taylorsville Assembly of God, Red Rock community. 512-3982404

BAPTIST Baptist Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 147 E. Clearview Cemetery Road, Hills Prairie. 512321-4840 Bastrop Chapel Primitive Baptist, 1905 Hill Street, Bastrop. 512-773-0918 Bateman Baptist Church, 2691 FM 20, Bateman-Red Rock. 512601-3240 Bethlehem Baptist Church, 2020 Wilson St., Bastrop. 512321-7751 Calvary Baptist Church, Loop 150 East across from Bastrop State Park, Bastrop. 512-303-1697 Cedar Valley Baptist Church, located at the corner of FM 969 and FM 1704, Elgin. 512-303-4141 Colorado Baptist Church. Old Lake Road, Smithville. Cornerstone Baptist Church, 311 N. Texas 95, Elgin. 512-2814280 Dorcas Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, 1810 Hill St., Bastrop. 512-332-0136 Faith Baptist Church, 2007 N. Main St., Bastrop. 512-308-0898 Faith Baptist Church, 306 Webb Street, Smithville. 512-237-2824 First Baptist Church of Bastrop, 1201 Water St., Bastrop. 512-321-3384 or 303-3221 First Baptist Church, 109 N. Ave. B, Elgin. 512-281-2838 First Baptist Church, McDade. 512-273-2896 First Baptist Church, 300 Hudgins, Smithville. 512-237-2176 Friendship Bible Baptist Church, 1903 N. Pecan St. Bastrop. 512-321-9040 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1702 South East 2nd St., Smithville, TX 78957 Grace Baptist Church, FM 20 & FM 812, Red Rock. 512-303-3891 Hills Prairie Baptist Church, Texas 304, 7 miles south of Bastrop. 512-321-3412 Hopewell Primitive Baptist Church, Texas 21 W., Bastrop.

First Assembly of God, 609 Pecan St., Bastrop. 512-303-5442.

Mt. Rose Missionary Baptist Church, 507 Toliver St., Bastrop. 512-321-2873.

512-321-3118 Iglesia Bautista Emanuel, 2007 N. Main, Bastrop.

Knobbs Springs Baptist Church, McDade. 512-273-2743 Live Oak Grove Baptist Church,

509 Walker, Smithville. Lone Star Missionary Baptist Church, 268 Shiloh Road, Bas-

trop. 512-321-4116 Macedonia First Baptist Church, 811 MLK Dr., Bastrop.

512-303-3727 Mason Lone Oak Baptist, Cedar Creek. Mt. Carmel Baptist, 400 Beaukiss Ln., Elgin. Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 701 S. Main St., Elgin. 512-281-5080 Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 250 Mt. Olive Road, Cedar Creek. 512-3212953 Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church, 409 Walker, Smithville. Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church, 468 McDonald Ln. W., Cedar Creek. 512-332-0132 Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, 644 Texas 21 W., Cedar Creek. 512-303-9532 Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, 394 Texas 95 S., Elgin. Mt. Rose Missionary Baptist Church, 507 Toliver St, Bastrop. 512-321-2873 Mt. Woodrow Missionary Baptist Church, 466 Walter Hoffman Road, Bastrop. 512-321-4205 New Faith Missionary Baptist Church, 1308 Walnut St., Bastrop. 512-321-4340 New Flower Hill Baptist Church, 300 Gentry St., Smithville. 512237-5093 Lost Pines Baptist Church, Texas 21 at FM 1441, Bastrop. 512332-0521 Pleasant Bethany Baptist, 217 Church St., Elgin. Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 1838 Sayers, Bastrop. 512-3212661 Primera Iglesia Bautista, 700 E. 10th St., Elgin. 512-281-3380 Primera Baptist Church, 301 Paul C. Bell Sq., Bastrop. 512-3032082 Ridgeway Baptist Church, 159 Ridgeway Cemetery Road, Paige. 512-848-3121 River Valley Christian Fellowship, 1602 Hill St., Bastrop. 512-308-2570 Rosanky Baptist Church, FM 535, east of Texas 304, Rosanky. 512-360-3968 Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church, 385 FM 20, Bastrop. 512-303-7914 St. Paul Baptist Church, FM 1100, Kimbro, 6 miles from Elgin. Sweet Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Upton. Timberline Fellowship Church, Texas 21, east of Bastrop. 512308-1313 Trinity Baptist Church, 705 Loop 230 W., Smithville. 512-2374532 Union Hill Baptist Church, 1430 FM 969, Bastrop. 512-581continued on 49

The Bastropian 2015-2016

CHURCH DIRECTORY 3709 Wyldwood Baptist Church, Texas 71 near FM 1209, west of Bastrop. 512-303-3443 Zion Chapel Baptist Church, 301 B.J. Mayes. Bastrop. 512-3210342 BUDDHIST SGI-USA, 141 Forest Ln., Bastrop. 512-303-4382

McDonald Ln., Cedar Creek. New Life in Christ Church, 1176 Texas 21 W., Cedar Creek. 512303-6612 New Testament Deliverance Ministry, Bastrop. 512-740-4962 Oakwood Evangelistic Center, 182 Old Lexington Road, Elgin. 512-281-0204

CATHOLIC

OUTREACH MISSION UNITED Church of God in Christ, 11819 Edward St., Littig. 512-281-3356 Penning for Jesus Cowboy Church, Inc., 1252 FM 20, 6 miles off Hwy. 71. 512-940-4568 or 376-2845 Red Rock Christian Church, 117 South Front St., Red Rock. 512321-5545 Trinity Zion Ministries for the Community, 151 Shiloh Road, Bastrop. 512-308-9344 Word of Life Church, 4 miles east on Texas 21, Bastrop. 512659-8831 Yegua Creek Evangelistic Free Church, CR 466, Elgin. 285-3844 Young’s School House Church, Texas 304 S. to CR 281 (Farris Ln.), 1.3 miles to church.

Ascension Catholic Church, 802 Pine St., Bastrop. 512-3213552 Sacred Heart Catholic Church, FM 535, Rockne. 512-321-7991 Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 302 W. 11th, Elgin. 512-281-3536 San Juan Diego Catholic Church, 216 Stony Point Dr. in Stony Point Sub. 512-247-2476 St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 204 Mills, Smithville. 512-237-3299

CHRISTIAN-DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Apostolic Christian Church, 1025 Texas 71 W., Bastrop. 512321-2345 Bastrop Christian Church, 1106 Church St., Bastrop. 512-321-6436 Central Christian Church, West 1st St. & Ave. B, Elgin. 512-2854523 First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, 4th & Burleson, Smithville. 512-237-4522 First Christian Church, 101 Robin St., Elgin. 512-285-2629

CHRISTIAN INDEPENDENT Riverside Christian Church of Bastrop, 3300 Hwy 21E. 512-7180190

CHURCH OF CHRIST Bastrop Church of Christ, 287 FM 20, Bastrop. 512-303-4597 Lost Pines Church of Christ, 1106 College St., Bastrop. 512704-4438 McDade Church of Christ, 211 E. El Paso St., McDade. 512-6618065 Elgin Church of Christ, 703 N. Ave. C, Elgin. 512-281-3377 Smithville Church of Christ, 1416 E. Whitehead St., Smithville. 512-360-2550 Upton Church of Christ, Young Schoolhouse Road, Upton.

LDS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1635 Tahitian Village Dr., Bastrop. 512-321-4142

EPISCOPAL Calvary Episcopal Church, 603

Iglesia Bautista Emanuel, 2007 N. Main, Bastrop.

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hwy 2104, Smithville. 512-237-4494

Trinity Lutheran Church AFLC, 117 Loop 150 W. 512-321-9922 Vineyard of Christ Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, meeting at 1703 FM 535 Rosanky. (361) 865-9040

512-321-2201 or 303-5072 Elgin Ministerial Alliance, 512-2812838 Smithville Ministerial Alliance, 512-237-3325

LUTHERAN

MENNONITE

Bethlehem Lutheran Church, ELCA, Rt. 3, Lund Community. 512-285-5036 Faith Lutheran Church, McDade.512-273-2623 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Texas 71 at Eskew, Bastrop. 512-303-3980 Grace Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, 308 Byrne, Smithville. 512-237-2108 Grace Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, U.S. 290 & 11th St., Elgin. 512-281-3367 New Hope Lutheran (LCMC), 1970 East U.S. 290, P.O. Box 464, McDade. 512-273-2255 New Sweden Lutheran Church, 12809 New Sweden Church Road, Elgin. 512-281-0056 St. Andrew Lutheran Church (LCMC), 1242 Stockade Ranch Rd, Paige. St. John’s Lutheran Church, FM 2104, Paige. 512-253-6396 St. Michael’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Winchester. 979-242-3444 St. Peter’s Lutheran Church ELCA, 401 East 8th, Elgin. 512285-4844

Grace Mennonite Fellowship, 2 miles west of FM 20 at 858 Shiloh Road 512-321-3895 or 308-0889

Angels Over America Freedom Foundation, 512-237-3678 Bastrop Bible Church, 602 Pecan St., Bastrop. 512-303-5681 Bastrop Christian Outreach Center, 1096 Texas 71 W., 512303-5683 Bastrop Church of New Beginnings, 256 Green Valley Dr., Bastrop. 512-321-7729 Blessed Hope Church of God in Christ, 104 Zimmerman Ave., Bastrop. 512-303-3100 Calvary Chapel, Cedar Creek Middle School, 125 Voss Pkwy. 512-547-2589 Celebration Community Church, 111 Longhorn St., Off Texas 95 between Bastrop & Elgin. 512-332-2537 Centro Cristiano Alpha y Omega, 407 Wilkes, Smithville. Cristo Viene-Elgin Church, 295 FM 619, McDade. 512-273-1013 End Tyme Fellowship, 1008 Water St. (Senior Citizens Center), Bastrop. 512-332-0221 Elgin Church of God in Christ, 104 Washington. Elgin. 281-0171 Elgin Evangelical Free Church, 1209 N. Ave C., Elgin. 285-4536 Eternity Road Ministries,

Spring St., Bastrop. 512-303-6615

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS

METHODIST Bethel United Methodist, 300 Central Ave., Elgin. Cedar Creek United Methodist Church, Texas 21 at Pearce Lane, Cedar Creek. 512-303-1393 First United Methodist, 1201 Main St., Bastrop. 512-321-2201, 303-5072 or 332-2333 First United Methodist, 216 W. 3rd, Elgin. 512-285-4503 First United Methodist, 400 Olive, Smithville. 512-237-3325 Harts Chapel United Methodist, 206 Prima St., Smithville. 512-237-5265 Paige United Methodist, 110 N. Main St., Bastrop.

METHODIST (INDEPENDENT) Walnut Creek Ministries, 185 Walnut Creek Road, Cedar Creek. 512-321-1775

MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE Bastrop Ministerial Alliance,

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

491 Agnes St. (Holiday Inn Express Conference Room), Bastrop. 512-689-7006 Family Worship Center, FM 1704, six miles south of Elgin. 512-2815146 Glory Temple Church, 203 Central Ave., Elgin. 512-281-2695 Grace Bible Fellowship, 133 Flahive Road, Bastrop. 512-988-0327 The Church of the Risen Savior, P.O. Box 194, 171 Flaming Oak Dr. Bastrop. 512-350-5100 The Gospel Lighthouse, 505 Ross, Smithville. Holy Temple, 631 Madison. Elgin. 512-285-4550 God’s Grace and Mercy Church, P.O. Box 875, Bastrop. 512-8484368 House of Prayer Church & Farm, 186 Stewart Ln., Paige. 512-253-6157 Inglesia-Sermon-de-la Montana, 301 Ave. C, Elgin. Jesus. Still the One Revival Ministries, 1203 Hill St., Bastrop. 512-303-9402 Living Faith Worship Center, 175 Texas 95 S., Elgin. 512-303-2078 Lost Pines Bible Church, 115-A Ponderosa, Bastrop. 512-237-3733 Ministerio de la Tierra Prometida, 215 Church St., Elgin. 512-281-4943 New Covenant Church, Texas 21 W. 0.2 miles off Texas 71, Bastrop. 512-303-0431 Breath of Life Deliverance, 386

PENTECOSTAL Iglesia Impacto de Dios, Lost Pines Elementary Cafeteria, Bastrop. 512-573-6390 New Covenant Pentecostal, Lexington Road & Ave. F, Elgin. 512-281-4229 Inspiration Pentecostal Church, 1602 Linda Street, Bastrop. Pentecostes Templo Samria, 423 S. Ave. A, Elgin. 512-281-4376 The Pentecostals of Bastrop UPC, 261 HWY 20, Bastrop. 512303-2660

PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church, 303 N. Ave. C, Elgin. 512-281-2395 First Presbyterian Church, 300 Burleson, Smithville. 512-3605231 Shepherd of the Pines, at Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St, Bastrop. 512-378-3976

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 109 Alum Creek, Bastrop. 512- 32-2220 Emmanuel Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Texas 95 south of Elgin. 512-281-3738 Seventh-Day Adventist, 225 Lexington Road, Elgin. 512-2728757.

The Bastropian 2015-2016

HISTORICAL MARKERS

County towns rich in history, cultural diversity Indians, explorers, early settlers leave footprints in region. The Bastrop region was inhabited by Tonkawa and Comanche Indians long before white men arrived. In 1691, the first Spanish explorers crossed this territory en route to east Texas. From their route, parts of El Camino Real (the King’s Highway) were blazed, thus placing Bastrop on a major early travel artery. Because El Camino Real crossed the Colorado River here, this was a strategic spot. In 1805, Fort Puesta del Colorado and the accompanying community were founded here to protect commerce on the road. In 1825, this area became known as Mina, one of the first settlements in the colony of Stephen F. Austin. It was named for revolutionary leader Xavier Mina. In the years that followed, many members of its first 100 families served in the Texas Revolution (1836), the Mexican War (1846-1848), and were active in political life in the Republic and State of Texas. In 1837, when the town incorporated, the name was changed to Bastrop to honor Baron de Bastrop, influential early land agent and statesman. The city was also designated county seat in 1837. From 1851-1870, this was seat of Bastrop Military Academy, an important Texas school. First courthouse was built in 1853; present one in 1883 on the same spot.

Elgin

After Houston & Texas Central Railroad built through this area in 1871, the town was platted (1872) and named for Robert M. Elgin (18251913), H. & T. C. land com-

tral Railway in 1872 and named for Norman Paige, a civil engineer, who had laid out the route of the railway. In 1876, the railway station was moved three miles east to its present location. Fedor Soder arrived in 1877, built a store and a gin, and purchased and sold many town lots to other Germans; the population is still primarily German.

McDade Bastrop’s rich history is spotlighted in a series of finely crafted sidewalk “medallions” along Chestnut and Main streets. CONTRIBUTED

missioner. Brick and tile, for which Elgin is widely known, have been chief products here since 1882, when Thomas O’Connor (1846-1937) made hand-molded, sun-dried bricks. Other manufacturing and agricultural products bolster the economy. Settlers of six ethnic origins have made the city a center of cultural richness, with good homes, churches and schools. Elgin was founded in 1871, when nearby pioneer Hogeye citizens moved the town site to the newly completed Houston & Texas Central Railroad. The town is known as the “Brick Capital of the Southwest.” Hand-pressed brick was made as early as 1882, and the area is also noted as an agricultural center.

Smithville

In 1691, missionaries on the expedition of Don Domingo Teran de Los Rios sighted a lagoon which the Indians called Nenocadda. The lagoon, known today as Shipp’s Lake, is on the southern edge of present Smithville. Frederick W. Grasmeyer operated a ferry here on the Colorado River in 1836. Steamboats plied the river from 1845

to about 1865. The village of “Old Smithville” was laid out on 640 acres of land granted to Thomas J. Gazley and Lewis Lomas. The town was located along the Colorado River in the northeast section of present Smithville. There were mercantile stores, dry good shops and a Masonic lodge. In 1876 the first post office was established with John Pride Jones as postmaster. The Taylor, Bastrop & Houston Railroad, later a part of the Missouri, Kansas & Texas system, arrived in 1887, and the town relocated along the tracks. The legend is that a coin was tossed to decide if the name would be changed to Burlesonville for Murray Burleson, who gave land for the railroad depot. The coin toss resulted in “Smithville” being retained as the name, apparently in honor of pioneer settler William Smith. The town was incorporated in 1895 and T. C. Collins served as the first mayor.

Paige

Paige does not have a historical marker, but was established at the site of a railroad water tower on the newly built Houston and Texas Cen-

McDade was laid out 1871 and named for James McDade, a Brenham lawyer. It became a thriving town, important freight center and early-day stage stop. A combination school-church was built 1872. In 1883, vigilantes lynched three men on Christmas Eve, causing a shoot-out the next day at

the Rock Saloon, which is now a museum.

tained by descendants of area pioneers.

Red Rock

Rockne

The town of Red Rock grew at the crossing of the Austin-Port Lavaca Stagecoach Road (now FM 812) and the Bastrop-Gonzales Trail (now CR 229). In 1892, the town moved one mile east to the newly-laid railroad. This site, with more than 370 graves, is the burial place of pioneer settlers, including Texas trail drivers and veterans of the Texas Revolution, the Mexican War and the Civil War. The first documented burial was in 1864. Earlier graves may have been lost when homemade sandstone markers were removed. The cemetery is main-

Beginning as a farming community, Rockne traces its roots to German settlers who came to the area in the 1840s. In November 1846, the Daniel and Mortiz Lehman families arrived at Indianola, Texas from Schlesien, Prussia. They soon settled in this vicinity on Walnut Creek. Later, Andreas and Franz Meuth arrived from Wurges, Germany and settled on Sandy Creek. Also from Wurges, John Wilhelm, John Wolf, John Hartman and Philip Goertz arrived in 1856 and established farms along Walnut Creek.

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