Texas farm & home april 2016 by Texas Farm & Home

TEXAS FARM & HOME

April 2016

TEXAS FARM & HOME

VOLUME 6

•

NUMBER 7

APRIL 2016

8 Rural Ramblings 66 History & Heritage 71 Texas Travels 76 Gardening Basics

TEXAS FARM & HOME

fairfield honors its unique and interesting history

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Texas was a land of hope for many polish immigrants

April 2016

62 Cafés Across Texas 79 Texas Events 82 Country As Cornbread

Enjoy some of these favorite Polish dishes.

Discovering east texas history in marshall

ON THE COVER

St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Chappell Hill represent Texas’ Polish Heritage Photo by: Christina Stewart

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editor’s welcome

Christina Cutler Stewart

Watching the chickens scratch I

’ve always enjoyed watching chickens. They have a definite pattern when they scratch. Two scratches with one foot, then a scratch with the other while they peck at the freshly scratched ground looking for a bug, worm, or something else a chicken may find delicious. Their life is so simple. Lay an egg, go and look for something to eat, and then go to sleep at night. That’s life for all of us, we just tend to make it a bit more complicated. My Dad always liked having chickens. He always liked to pick out a rooster and teach him to eat out of his hand. I’ve had chickens since I was a little girl. Since Wayne and I’ve been married, the only time we haven’t had any chickens is when we lived in an apartment for about a year. When we built our house the first thing he wanted was a tractor, and the first thing I wanted was a batch of chickens. We got them both about the same time. He still has that tractor, which you can read about in this edition, but we’ve had a few more chickens over the years as their lives generally aren’t quite as long as a tractor. Still, I’d rather have a chicken around than a tractor; at least you can eat the eggs. If I see Wayne or Sam gnawing on a tractor tire then I’m going to get a bit

worried, although Wayne says he could eat anything. Gathering eggs always was the best part about having chickens. That’s Claire’s job these days. We would let her feed the new chicks we have, but our Great Dane Ethel usually does not leave Claire’s side and we’re afraid Ethel might help herself out to a baby chick or two, so Wayne and I do the chick feeding, and the cleaning, and the watering, and the cleaning. It’s amazing such small birds can make such large messes. Still, these days of young chickenhood, will give way to evenings sitting in the yard, watching the chickens scratch in search for a quick meal, or wallowing in the dirt taking a dusty bath. Other animals aren’t quite as fun to watch. Cows just graze, it’s the same with horses and goats and sheep. Dogs and cats just lay around and sleep. Chickens, though, offer some busy entertainment as they seem to always be moving and staying busy. During the summer when the grasshoppers come out and hops in front of a chicken the race is on. All chickens in the vicinity join in on the chase as they try to corner the fleeing bug. Those are some wonderful evenings spent just wiling away the hours. It’s a life most people cannot understand unless they have grown up in the country or on a farm. It’s life I would not trade for anything. TFH

TEXAS

FARM & HOME MANAGING EDITORS

936-687-2424

www.texasfarmandhome.com

Christina Cutler Stewart, cstewart@texasfarmandhome.com Wayne Stewart, wstewart@texasfarmandhome.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jolene Renfro, Lois Marie Guymer, Marilyn Jones, Randy Rollo

PROMOTIONS MANAGER/ ADVERTISING SALES

Linda Moffett, lmoffett@texasfarmandhome.com 512-966-9426

ADVERTISING SALES

DISTRIBUTION SUBSCRIPTIONS

Ansel Bradshaw, ab@texasfarmandhome.com 936-546-6707 Randy Rollo, rrollo@texasfarmandhome.com Lesia Rounsavall, lrounsavall@messenger-news.com 936-687-2424 or Texas Farm & Home, P.O. Box 130, Grapeland TX, 75844

EDITORIAL/SALES OFFICES: 202 South Main St., Grapeland, TX 75844. TEXAS FARM & HOME is published monthly by Nicol Publishing Company L.L.C., Copyright 2014. Subscription price: $24.95 a year (12 issues). Reproduction without permission of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

TEXAS FARM & HOME

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rural ramblings

Wayne Stewart

Renewing a friendship A few weeks ago I was able to get reacquainted with an old friend I hadn’t done anything with in years. The family’s Farmall Super C. This special piece of equipment came into our family’s possession almost 13 years ago. For the first 14 months of Christina’s and mine wedded bliss we lived in an apartment. We moved into our house in the country at month 15, and we bought this tractor on month 16 for $400. We saw it in a local shopper paper and called to go look at it. It didn’t run, but the engine wasn’t stuck so we bought it. A new set of points and a good carburetor cleaning got the tractor running. The following spring it helped us put in a garden, mow pastures and do things tractors are supposed to do. In the following years we added a Farmall H, a John Deere B, a John Deere A, and a Farmall Cub. Our love affair of old iron, whether it is an old car or truck or a tractor, has always been there. After having the Super C a few years it needed a rebuild, so we took it apart, put new sleeves, pistons and bearings in it and put it back together. While it was apart we gave it a quick paint job. It ran perfectly and still performed its chores around town with aplomb. Over the past seven years we added a couple of more modern tractors to the farm and they took on all the day-to-day duties. The old Super C got parked in a small barn and was forgotten until a few weeks ago when we started cleaning out the shed. I pulled the tractor out, put some gas in the tank, a battery on it and filed the points, and voila, it fired up after sitting idle for seven years — though I would turn the engine over a couple times a year to keep it from seizing. After a few weeks of putting around the place on it, I remember why I fell in love with the tractor in the first

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April 2016

place. Being an old tricycle, or narrow front, tractor, it turns on a dime, plus I like the way it sits up high giving you a good view of the landscape. For collectors the wide front Super C is more collectible, but the narrow front is what the farmers used. With a full set of cultivators mounted on the tractor, it still gets to perform the job for which it was made, more than 60 years later. These machines are a part of American farming history, and should be celebrated as such. I’ve driven by many a junk yard only to see an old piece of iron sitting there, rusting away needlessly. It’s sad to see. Progress leaves the things that can’t keep up behind — I guess it’s always been that way. The Bible lay largely unquestioned for centuries, then things began to change and this so-called higher thinking took hold. People forgot Who it was they served. Eventually, society made up its own morals out of whole cloth; only to see what once was great begin to crumble. The prophet Isaiah pronounced woe on those who call evil good and good evil. We are there. For those who still cling to the idea of the Word of God being the arbiter of justice and our moral code and a personal road map, we are being discarded onto junk heaps just as so many old tractors. While the world may want to see us pass away into history, do not go quietly. In Jude 3, the Lord’s brother tells believers to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.” Here’s hoping all will peacefully and whole-heartedly fight to defend the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. TFH

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TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

A Land of Hope

Early Polish immigrants left a lasting mark on Texas with their skills and distinct culture as they built their homes and churches

Story by WAYNE STEWART Photography by CHRISTINA STEWART

n the 18th and 19th centuries war ravaged the European continent, even through the first half of the 20th century. Many fled the constant fighting in search of freedom. In that mass migration the United States of America was a bright beacon for freedom, but there was a place whose lamp of freedom shined brighter than all — Texas. In the last half of the 19th century many people from Central and Eastern Europe flooded into Texas. Over the years Texas Farm & Home has chronicled the contributions Germans and Czechs made to Texas. Not to be forgotten in all of this are the people of Polish descent, who came to Texas and established their homes and brought with them their own distinct culture and way of doing things. As the people from Poland made their homes in Texas they settled in areas like New Waverly, Plantersville, Anderson, Brenham, Chappell Hill and a few enclaves in South Texas. In fact, Panna Maria, roughly 50 miles south of San Antonio, is considered the first Polish settlement in the United States, founded

Brenham’s Saint Mary’s Catholic Church was established in 1870. The current sanctuary was built in 1935. The parish was founded and supported by Irish, German and Polish Families who were engaged in a variety of business in the early days of Brenham’s history. Many Polish families came to the Brenham area in the latter half of the 1800s. They became a vibrant part of the St. Mary’s church and surrounding community. The church building is on the National Register of Historic Places.

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in 1854. According to the Texas Almanac, some Poles got to Texas around 1818 as members of a French group seeking refuge near Liberty. To understand the Polish migration to Texas, a look must first be given to the history of Poland in the 18th and 19th century. When so many European countries found themselves under the thumbs of tyrants and monarchies, the people of Poland moved toward a Republic. The neighboring countries of Prussia, Austria and Russia feared such a move, as they believed the people of their nations would seek freedom, just as the Poles did. So these powerful countries partitioned Poland, leaving just a small area around Warsaw as Poland, a vassal state to Russia. Inside the former nation of Poland, the ruling countries wanted their own citizens to settle the area and the Polish to leave. Many did leave. Many headed for a place where the country was wild and open, and freedom almost was a guarantee. So, they left the ruins of their country and headed

St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in the Grimes County seat of Anderson, built in 1917, was the first brick Catholic Church in Grimes County and is part of the Diocese of Galveston. When it was founded the church had 168 members of Polish descent, and one family of German descent. The Poles came to Anderson in 1871 with about 30 families. The could not speak English, but they did bring their faith with them, and their community grew and they formed their special church with mass being offered by visiting priests in the homes of some of the Polish families. Over the years, the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s priests maintained a close relationship with the Church in Poland. Today there are nearly 300 members of St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church.

for Texas. Some got to Texas early enough to fight in the Texas Revolution. Here are a few of the Polish names, from the Texas Almanac, that served Texas in arms: Michael Debicki, Francis and Adolph Petrussewicz, John Kornicky, Joseph Schrusnecki and Felix Wardzinski. All of these men served and died at Goliad except for Felix Wardzinski, who served at the Battle of San Jacinto.

While there were a few Polish people in Texas during the Republic years, when the 1850s rolled around the shores of Texas began seeing an influx of Poles. Life in Poland at the time was desperate, and the people were looking for a better life, and it was a letter from a Franciscan priest of Polish lineage that spurred a starving and struggling people to come to Texas. The Rev. Leopold Moczygemba, served the German parishes around New

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Chappell Hill, located in Washington County, has its own Polish community with St. Stanislaus Catholic Church serving the spiritual needs of the local residents. The current church, finished in 1924, is the third church on the grounds with the first being destroyed in the great hurricane of 1900, and the second being destroyed by fire in 1921. The fertile soil around Chappell Hill supported farmers in the area and drew the Poles looking for a new home. The building was constructed in the Spanish Mission Style and features stunning artwork and woodwork inside the sanctuary.

Braunfels in the 1850s. His letters home described a beautiful land needing to be settled. Here are some of the benefits of Texas the Rev. Moczygemba pointed out to his Polish brethren: no one had to pay any taxes, livestock were allowed to graze freely with plenty of grass, people were allowed to own as much land as they could buy, they could settle and make all Polish communities, little chance of floods on the plateaus, milder weather, men were not conscripted into the army, and with all the land there would be plenty of food for everybody. In a story by Kathryn Rosypal that appeared in the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America, many Poles in Upper Silesia, located in Southwestern Poland, decided to leave their home and go to Texas. A place they considered a land of hope, but as Ms. Rosypal noted, â&#x20AC;&#x153;thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all they found! No town, no church, no homes, in fact no shelter of any sort, as they expected. They found sage brush, mesquite and one large live oak and a geographical terrain April 2016

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Polish Churches like nothing they had ever encountered in Poland.” They came from a land of forests and open farmlands and a climate much, much cooler than that of South Texas. Many did not like the primitive surroundings Texas offered, but they made the best of it and founded Panna Maria, Polish for the Virgin Mary. Over the ensuing years other Poles came to Texas, with many settling in the central part of the state around Brenham and the surrounding areas. With some settling in the lands around San Antonio as well. The Poles coming to Texas were Catholic, quite different from the mostly Protestant Texans coming from the southern United States. After arriving in Texas, they built their own churches, established their homes and involved themselves in their communities. They brought their skills with them, their language and their distinct culture. As they built their houses, a meat smoking room was built on to it for sausage making as this proved the best way to preserve meat in the heat of Texas. Life was tolerable for these early Poles, but it was not easy, and soon Civil War and Reconstruction stressed the relationship with the Poles and American neighbors. Communities like Anderson, Stonham, Brenham, Chappell Hill, Bremond and New Waverly saw an influx of Polish settlers, called the “second wave” in the 1870s, fleeing an enforced German culture onto the Polish people. In the early days in Texas the Poles were taught in their native language, but as the 20th century dawned, the Poles began assimilating into the Texan culture, while still maintaining their religion and other facets of Polish life. From these early Polish settlers, there are now more than 200,000 people in Texas of direct Polish descent. You see their influence on church names like Saint Stanislaus in Anderson, Bandera and Chappell Hill; there are Polish heritage festivals in Brenham and Bremond along with music festivals held across the state. Several Parish festivals are held around Texas and include St. Stanislaus in Anderson, St. Stanislaus in Bandera, St. Stanislaus in Chappell Hill, St. Mary in Bremond, St. Ann in Kosciusko, St. Joseph in New Waverly, St. Mary in Stockdale, and Holy Cross in Yorktown. Perhaps the biggest Polish festival in

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The Chappell Hill Historical Museum in Chappell Hill has a special room dedicated to Polish settlers in the area. The display explains the reasons for leaving Poland to come to Texas. The museum also houses other bits of history from Washington County’s historic past, including an old advertising backdrop in the museum’s auditorium.

S C l a s f P a a b r P t s t m w m a b a l s a P

St. Joseph Catholic Church was established in 1909 by a group of Polishspeaking immigrants from the Grimes Prairie, Stoneham and Plantersville areas. In 1909, because of historical rivalries, St. Mary, the Polish community in the Stoneham area separated itself from the Plantersville community, joining itself with the Polish community of Anderson as a mission, and built its own sanctuary in the present location, under the spiritual leadership and jurisdiction of the Polish-speaking pastor of St. Stanislaus in Anderson.

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The Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception in Plantersville is one of the remarkable “Painted Churches” of Texas. The current church was built in 1917, after the previous structure was destroyed by fire. The church exudes a strong German influence, as compared to the Polish roots of St. Joseph’s in nearby Stoneham. For many years, the areas Polish community worshiped with the Ukrainian-German community of St. Mary in Plantersville.

Texas, of course, is the Polish Festival in Houston. This year marks the tenth installment of the festival held at Our Lady of Czestochowa Catholic Church, located at 1731 Blalock Rd. in Houston. The festival begins on May 6 and runs through May 8. The special event features tradition Polish music and is headlined by Adam Golka, a world-renowned pianist. Of course there will be plenty of Polish style Polka, which unlike German and Czech Polka, uses a fiddle. Other events include traditional dance, Polish signature food, plus plenty of vendors and other attractions to make this a special, one-of-a-kind festival. To learn more about this special culture and what it meant to the life of Texas, visit the website www.polish-texans.com April 2016

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The Parish of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Waverly began in 1870, with the first church built for parishioners in 1876. In 1906, the beautiful edifice still standing today was built to serve the Polish residents and other Catholics around New Waverly. It was officially dedicated on the Feast of St. Joseph. Families to New Waverly took advantage of good farming land and abundant timber, still hallmarks of the region today. To administer to the spiritual needs of the new “Texans,” Bishop Claude M. Dubuis of the Diocese of Galveston made an agreement with the Resurrectionist Fathers to take care of all Polish localities and other nationals in the diocese which embraced all of Texas and some parts of what is now New Mexico reaching into Oklahoma.

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SMALL TOWN TEXAS

TALES OF OLD FAIRFIELD Historians, residents remember a simpler way of life in this town situated between the forests of East Texas and the blackland prairies of Central Texas. Story by WAYNE STEWART, Photography by CHRISTINA STEWART

very small town in Texas is unique with its own distinct story to tell — Fairifeld is no exception. Situated on the prairie lands west of the Trinity River and south of Corsicana, the city grew in the years after the Civil War as a cotton-growing and agricultural center. Many towns in Texas grew much the same way, but what makes Fairfield unique? During the Prohibition-era Fairfield became the bootlegging capital of Texas. Eventually that period of Fairfield’s life was broken and time marched onward. As World War II ended, farming lessened, it would seem time passed Fairfield by, but the town’s fortunes began to change when Interstate 45

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FAIRFIELD

Kathryn Davis looks at a tapestry quilt with many featuring many of the historical sites in Freestone County. Mrs. Davis, at 98 years old, lived in Fairfield almost all of her life and recalls what life was like before the Interstate, when cotton was king. Christie Harper, owner of Dry Gulch Mercantile, visits with Mrs. Davis.

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passed by Fairfield, linking it with Houston and Dallas on a faster course than the old Texas 75. Recalling much of Fairfield’s history is Kathryn Davis, who at 98 years old has lived in Fairfield and Freestone County nearly all of her life. Mrs. Davis grew up in the years before and during the Depression. The daughter of a schoolteacher, Mrs. Davis left Fairfield for a time to go to university in St. Louis. She came back home and married a local boy. World War II broke out and her husband of just a year was drafted. But, with his business degree, the Army used him to audit Army contracts in Michigan. After the war the couple returned home to Fairfield. Mr. Davis got a job at a local bank as a teller — he retired as bank president. The two were married for 70 years, from 1941 to his death in 2011. During this time Mrs. Davis raised three children, all three of her children graduated as valedictorians from Fairfield High School; and she saw the sleepy town grow along with her family. She saw it transformed when the lignite mines brought jobs and money to the area. She saw it become prosperous when oil and natural gas discoveries brought new and needed wealth to Fairfield and Freestone County. She saw it all, and she remembered. “My Daddy was a school teacher in Blunt, close to the Trinity River,” Mrs. Davis recalled. “He bought a block in Fairfield, and we came to town on a wagon. The block had a Victorian house on it and I still live in the house. (Her father) also bought some land outside of Fairfield and started farming cotton.” Cotton was king in Fairfield, just as it was throughout much of Texas and the rest of the South. The Moody family, one of Texas’ famed families, made their fortune in the cotton trade. Most people these days associate the Moodys with Galveston, but it was in Fairfield where they got their start. The Moody home is still one of Fairfield’s most cherished and historic sites. The home has been refurbished at considerable costs to preserve it for future generations. As she looked back through the years, Mrs. Davis recalled when Fairfield had three hardware stores on the town square. “All the shopping centered on the square,” Mrs. Davis said. “You could

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The Freestone County Historical Museum houses many artifacts from the county’s past. A telephone museum, located inside the museum is a one-ofa-kind display. The grounds around museum also hold old buildings and other relics from an age the museum is trying to keep from being forgotten.

buy anything; food, clothes, shoes. You also had Roller’s Café, famous for his chili.” Back then the streets consisted of hard, red gravel. There were two cotton gins in town and during ginning time, the white lint of the cotton covered everything in town.

“It would turn your windows white,” Mrs. Davis recalled. “It just got everywhere and in everything, but that was how people made their money back then.” During those days, most folks still farmed and lived out in the country, but that made Saturday nights special.

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“Everybody came to town on Saturday night,” Mrs. Davis said. “They built the theater when I was in High School, and Sam’s cooked barbecue and pies and they had a dirt floor.” Sam’s is still a Fairfield icon, though today it is located near Interstate-45, and this restaurant that has become a Fairfield institution for residents and motorists along I-45, still boasts pies with a 3-inch meringue. Another institution Mrs. Davis recalls is being a nearly lifetime member of First Baptist Church of Fairfield. In her younger days the church did not have a permanent preacher, so a visiting preacher came through once a month to deliver a good, Baptist sermon.

FAIRFIELD “Eventually we got a preacher that stayed, and he’s the one that married me and my husband,” Mrs. Davis mused. Children followed in the ensuing years, she calls them her greatest achievement. Mrs. Davis and her husband lived next door to her parents, on the same block her father purchased. In those days Fairfield had a hospital, and Mrs. Davis just happened to live by it. “I walked to the hospital to have two of my kids,” she laughed.

A piece of Fairfield history most are not familiar with these days is the county’s bootlegging history. Prohibition began in 1920, and with an underground demand for liquor, some enterprising residents of Freestone County were happy to meet that demand. The source for most of the outlawed product came from the Young community, near the Trinity River. “They had plenty of fresh water there, all the things they needed for their operation,” explained Freestone

County Historical Museum Curator Patricia Pratt. “During the Depression, times were hard and many of these people just had to make a living, and bootlegging put food on the table.” The Bethel Pentecostal Church now calls the grounds of the museum home. A preacher named Hankins built the church in Young in order to lead many of the bootleggers out of a life of crime and point them toward Jesus Christ. Today, the church looks much the same as it did during the Depression

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FAIRFIELD era, and in the back is an old still, giving testament to the need of the church. Mrs. Davis recalls some of those bootlegging days. During the Depression, just about everybody was poor; no kids had cars, except for the kids of the bootleggers. “We didn’t think anything about it,” Mrs. Davis said. “It was just their way of making a living. A lot of our friends’ fathers went to the penitentiary.” Just as Ms. Pratt pointed out, Fairfield and Freestone County was known all over Texas and the United States for not just its illicit liquor, but also the quality of it. As the move was made to break up the bootlegging operations, confiscated stills found new homes outside the county jail, letting residents know there was a price to pay. Eventually that era faded and Fairfield and Freestone County got back to its quiet, rural roots. Bridges over the Trinity River finally connected Fairfield with Palestine, new roads also made travel to Corsicana easier as travelers used to have to travel through the backwoods and Steward’s Mill to get there. Palestine and Corsicana represented the two largest towns immediately around Fairfield. Before the bridges, cars headed to Palestine had to cross the Trinity River on a ferry, a somewhat laborious process. It is a bit different today. A big four-lane bridge connects Fairfield with Palestine. I-45 is a major artery through Texas with tens of thousands of cars passing through Fairfield everyday. The area around the interstate is booming, and the downtown area has experienced a renaissance with different antique shops like Dry Gulch Mercantile and Armadillo Emporium. There also are other eclectic shops and art galleries providing visitors to the area a unique experience. For people with ties to the area, or just wanting to learn some history, there is no better place to visit than the historical museum. When it first opened in the 1960s, the museum called the old Freestone County Jail home, but a new building was added a few years ago housing the exhibits, along with two old cabins, the church mentioned earlier and other artifacts from the city and county’s history. The oldest building in Freestone County calls the museum home these

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Eclectic shops, antiques, art foundations and the Freestone County Courthouse dominate downtown Fairfield. These shops are created a renaissance for the area, along with ample oil and gas deposits in and around Freestone County. At one time, Freestone County and Fairfield were the bootlegging capital of Texas during the days of Prohibition.

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FAIRFIELD days, the Carter Cabin. Built in 1845 in the famous dogtrot style, the cabin came to be at the museum in 1967, donated by the grandson of the original owner. The museum restored the cabin and it received a Texas Historical marker. The cabin contains furniture and other period items from the mid1800s. It features a horsehair mattress, quilting frames and numerous kitchen and cooking utensils. The other cabin on the grounds is the Potter-Watson cabin, built in 1852. It also was donated to the museum in 1967. It originally was located about 7 miles north of Fairfield. It also has a Texas Historical marker. Inside it features tools and other primitive items. A corner of the cabin is set up to look like an old country school. Other exhibits at the museum include the Telephone Museum, which features a wide array of early phones and switchboards. The phones date from turn of the 20th century to the 1970s. Contel once had an office in Fairfield and many of the items in the museum were donated by that company, along with help from the Fairfield Pioneer Club. One of the most prominent buildings on the museum grounds is the old jail. The jail, constructed in 1881, was used until 1913. The jail could house 16 prisoners and also featured a hospital room with the jailer living in an outside room in the top floor. At one time, the sheriff and his family lived on the bottom floor with the prisoners upstairs. Inside the main museum there are several exhibits harkening to the area’s past, including medicine cabinets and other items from the Dr. J.N. Milner Drug Store in Streetman; plus it has a country store display at the back from the old Steward’s Mill store. There also are exhibits from the various wars and conflicts in which the men and women of Fairfield served over the years. Of particular note in the veterans display is a tribute to a man boys the country over know by the name G.I. Joe. The story of G.I. Joe begins with famed World War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle with his story and 1945 film entitled “The Story of G.I. Joe.” He was an everyman soldier, with G.I. standing for government issue — just like all the men who served during World War II. Mr. Pyle used

Fairfield native Riley Tidwell as the model for his story. Pyle wrote a story based on Mr. Tidwell’s heroic exploits in Italy in late 1943. The story of G.I. Joe starred Robert Mitchum and Burgess Meredith. From there the toy collection began, a favorite of young boys ever since. Fairfield, just like other small towns, is full of such stories, but the stories of Fairfield and the surrounding area makes it unique in Texas, as the people of the community have worked hard to preserve and protect its special history. They also have worked hard to preserve their town and keep it viable in the 21st century. To view the exhibits at the Freestone County Historical Museum, it is located at 302 East Main St, two blocks east of the Freestone County Courthouse Square. The museum is open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. TFH

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SAVE THE DATE

Bop Phillips

Georgetown CVB

H Texas Events

A special heritage Georgetown Red Poppy Festival set for April 22-14

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Georgetown CVB

rom the seeds of a World War I veteran sent to his mother back home, the red poppy turned into something to celebrate in Georgetown. They began growing at 507 E. 7th Street and over the years spread across this picturesque Central Texas city. Today, Georgetown is recognized by the Texas Legislature as “The Red Poppy Capital of Texas.” The red poppies come back year after year, and according to experts, it is one of the few places in the country this occurs, due to the soil conditions of the area. This year’s Red Poppy Festival is set for April 22-24. Live music and entertainment is the hallmark of this special celebration that brings thousands of people to the streets of Georgetown. A bicycle ride through the scenic countryside around Georgetown adds an active

Georgetown CVB

Bop Phillips

dimension to the festivities. Participants in the Red Poppy Ride get to tour through the Hill Country terrain around Georgetown and Williamson County. The ride is sponsored by the SERTOMA Club of Georgetown and is a major contributor to the civic organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scholarship program. The tour follows several different routes with varying difficulties for riders at various stages. To learn more about the Red Poppy Ride, website at www.redpoppyride.org, or the Georgetown SERTOMA Club website at georgetownsertoma.org. The big events of the Red Poppy Festival begins Saturday with a parade; a kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area; live entertainment on many different stage venues around the town. The fun continues Sunday with an arts and crafts fair and food court items. There also is an art contest; artisans showing their skills and much more to keep a family busy. A street dance also is a popular part of the festival. The festival also features a car show. For more information on everything going on at the festival, visit www.redpoppyfestival.com.

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SAVE THE DATE

Pilgrimage & Civil War Weekend

Shasta Stagner

H Texas Events

Iron Clad a favorite part of Jefferson re-enactment

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Photograph by Dan Murray

eritage and history drips from every corner of Jefferson. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full of historic antebellum houses, beautiful downtown buildings with inviting galleries reminiscent of the French Quarter in New Orleans. Jefferson celebrates its history unlike any other city in Texas. Every year Jefferson holds its Pilgrimage & Civil War Weekend. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event is set for April 30May 1. Civil War re-enactors gather en masse in Jefferson, bivouacking along Big Cypress Bayou. These camps form living history centers replete with authentic cannons, rifles and other accoutrements used by soldiers on both sides of the Civil War. These reenactors bring the famous Andrews Raid, scintillating Civil War railroad story, to life.

Shasta Stagner

S H O P, D I N E & S T A Y J E F F E R S O N

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Photograph by Dan Murray

JEFFERSON

rons will be on display showing how naval forces lived and fought during the War Between the States. While there, take a ride on an authentic steam train and become a part of the Andrews Raid on the banks of the Big Cypress Bayou. The Andrews Raid occurred on April 12, 1862 when Confederate locomotive, “The General,” was hijacked by a Union spy. Eventually Confederate forces got the train back. Both battles can be seen from aboard the Historic Jefferson Railway, so visitors can sit in the comfort of their train car and watch history unfold before their eyes. The battles will be re-enacted at regular intervals on Saturday, April 30. Performance times are set for 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. On Sunday May 1, two reenactments are planned, the first happening at 11:30 a.m. and the last performance at 1 p.m. Tickets for the event

Photograph by Dan Murray

The naval battle of Port Jefferson also is relived. Bringing a sense of authenticity to the battle is a replica Iron Clad, the Virginia, owned by the Historic Jefferson Railway. This floating history exhibit is a favorite part of the re-enactment. “It floats down the bayou shooting its cannons,” recalled Civil War re-enactor Parker White. “While it’s shooting, we follow it down the bank shooting at it.” This is one of the few re-enactment sites able to incorporate naval forces into the action. Special naval squad-

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Photograph by Dan Murray

While in Jefferson enjoy museum tours, a riverboat tour, carriage rides, cemetery tours and plenty of shopping opportunities. To learn more about Jefferson events during the Pilgrimage, visit their website at www.jeffersonpilgrimage.com.

Shasta Stagner

The famous Excelsior House Hotel lays out a salad buffet luncheon during this special celebration of Jefferson’s history. There is another attraction during Pilgrimage not to be missed, Jay Gould’s private rail car, located across the street from the hotel.

are $15 per person. Children riding in a lap are free. There is so much going on that weekend, visit the Jefferson Civil War website at www.jeffersoncivilwardays. com for more information, or to purchase tickets for the Historic Jefferson Railway. A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to the Marion County Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson Railway and Wetlands Foundation. While in Jefferson, don’t miss the chance to see the city’s historical homes in their old glory as they transport back in time to the days of the old South with the city’s annual Pilgrimage. Men and women in period dress describe and show how homes looked and how life was lived in that bygone age. Pilgrimage has been a Jefferson tradition for 69 years, so for a dose of antebellum history in Texas, head to Jefferson and drink it in. The Jefferson Pilgrimage and Historic Homes Tour is presented by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club. Some of the things happening during the Pilgrimage include a re-enactment of the Diamond Bessie Murder Trial. A parade also is held with garden strolls held throughout the town of Jefferson. TFH April 2016

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SAVE THE DATE H Texas Events

Celebrate Texas’ first Boom Town Corsicana’s Derrick Days set for April 23-30

orsicana was the first of the Texas oil boomtowns with the discovery of oil in the area in the late 1800s. That heritage is never far from the minds of the people of the city as they celebrate those halcyon days every year with the annual Derrick Days festival. This special event is held just because the people living in Corsicana needed a new water supply in the early 1890s.

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A well was dug, but instead of finding water, they found oil — the rest, as they say, is history as prosperity came to the prairie in a big way. Another boom to the city came in the 1920s with the discovery of the Powell Field. In 1976 the city of Corsicana decided to pay a special tribute to the city’s special history, so began Derrick Days. This year marks the 41st installment of Corsicana’s annual Derrick Days slated for April 23-30. Derrick Days is a blend of many

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CORSICANA different activities happening around the town. Events include a fun run, an Oil Baronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ball held at the Corsicana Opry; free hot dog lunch and dinner at the downtown Pocket Park. There also is a downtown wine and cheese stroll the day before all the big events begin to take place. On Friday April 29, there are several events taking place including the Navarro County Derrick Days Pro Rodeo held at the Navarro County Expo center. The rodeo begins at 8 p.m. Also on Friday April 29, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the Chili Cookoff Warm-up, held in the Citizens National Bank Parking Lot. The Derrick Days Concert also is held that Friday beginning at 8 p.m. featuring Deryl Dodd & Homesick Cowboys at the Moontower Bar & Grill. Saturday, April 30 is the big day for the festival as downtown Corsicana becomes a whirlwind of festival activity. That day features a parade begin-

ning at 9 a.m., other events include a Hot Rod Cruise-in car show and swap meet; the official chili cook-off; a carnival featuring games, carnival rides and other activities sure to keep the kids busy for the day. For the parents, they can stroll through the vast arts and crafts vendors at the festival. Other activities include the SPIKE OUT Volleyball Tournament, a horseshoe and washer tournament, the continuation of the Navarro County Derrick Days Pro Rodeo; an

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CORSICANA oilfield history film and tours held at the Warehouse Living Arts Center; music and choral performances held throughout the day in various locations, and it ends with the 106.9 The Ranch Drillers Dance with Jamie Richards, held at the Moontower Bar & Grill. For those who like a good bowl of chili, Corsicana of course is the home of Wolf Brand Chili, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the big Chili Cook-Off. The cook-off will judge the best beans, chili and brisket, so for the hungry festival goers this is something not to be missed. For more information on everything happening during the Derrick Days festival, visit the website at www.derrickdays.com. There you can find a full list of activities, and vendor registration for those wanting to take part in the festival. TFH

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A unique place on the prairie Taylor celebrates Blackland Prairie Days

ocated on the vast farming fields of the Texas Blackland Prairie, Taylor celebrates its life from a town started along the railroad, to a thriving city just outside the metropolitan area of Austin. The prairies spawned an agricultural boom for Taylor, and even today agriculture is a major part of the city’s economic lifeblood. Taylor celebrates its unique place on the Texas prairie right on the edge of the Hill Country with its annual Taylor Blackland Prairie Days. This year’s festival is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 7 in Taylor’s historic downtown. Following the festival, the city hosts a street dance from 5-9 p.m. The Taylor Main

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TAYLOR Street Program sponsors the festival, along with working mightily on revitalizing the downtown area through historical preservation and other endeavors. If the kids are looking for something to do on the first Saturday in May, then take them to the festival so they can enjoy such exciting attractions like pony rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting. Other childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities include a chance to practice roping and compete in a stick horse rodeo and visit a chuck wagon camp and get a picture taken with a real Texas Longhorn. Not to be missed is the arts and crafts fair filled with vendors selling, of course, arts and crafts, plants, baked goods and other goodies people are sure to need and want in their home. It also is a good place to do some Mothers Day and Fathers Day shopping. Many of the items in the vendor booths are handmade pieces of art, matted art, jewelry, metal art, sculptures, yard art, purses, clothing and other types of gift items. Live entertainment always makes for an exciting festival. Of course there is the street dance beginning at 5 p.m. near Heritage Square. During the day of the festival, local and area musicians will perform a diverse array of music. Cultural and heritage music performance are slated throughout the day on Saturday, providing a welcome break for the other festival activities. As for the food, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a festival so there will be plenty of funnel cakes, corn dogs, sausage wraps and turkey legs to be enjoyed. While in Taylor, stop by some of the local shops such as many of the antique stores and gift stores and clothing boutiques filling the downtown district will be open and ready for business. TFH

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SAVE THE DATE H Texas Events

Step back in time with a Texas hero Rodeo and other festivals make for a busy spring in Huntsville

uick, name the most significant figure in Texas history. For the real Texans out there, chances are Sam Houston is the one chosen, as he used his formidable will and power to make Texas a nation and eventually help lead it into statehood with the United States. Every year, the accomplishments of this man are celebrated with the General Sam Houston Folk Festival held on the grounds of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum in Huntsville. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festival is set for May 13-15.

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The Traveling Murphyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pioneer Family Quartet... great music and fun songs.

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Huntsville As an extra bonus, the festival also is home to the 17th annual Texas State Knife & Tomahawk Championship. This special contest features Knife Throwers Hall of Fame World Champion Chris Miller and his wife Sarah, who are the hosts of the event. Live folk music always is a big part of this festival as it immerses children and others in attendance to the way life used to be. Some of the performers include, The Traveling Murphys; Celtaire Stringband; Kenny Lewis, Cowboy Poet; Front

Porch String Band; Raven Hammered Dulcimer Group; and a Knife & Whip Show. The museum sits on 15 acres that once belonged to Sam Houston and his wife Margaret. It features two homes in which he lived and his old office. With characters in period costume performing and showing what life was like when Sam Houston strode through the streets of Huntsville, this is an educational as well as entertainment opportunity not to be missed. Instead of the park-like setting of

the museum grounds, they will be transformed into a bustling frontier settlement with people peddling their wares, sharing food and doing the things pioneers used to do. There are plenty of things to keep the attention of kids as there will be pioneer craft demonstrations where children can use their hands to do the same things kids did in the mid19th century. There are needs for costumed characters from the 1800s to “perform” at this three-day event, so those wanting to take part in this special celebration on the life of Huntsville and Texas’ greatest hero should contact the General Sam Houston Folk Festival Entertainment Coordinator Mary Allen-Keating at 832-661-2951, or e-mail her at mary.allen,keating@gmail.com. Volunteers at the event also are always welcome and they perform such tasks as selling tickets at the front and back gates, providing water for festival demonstrators and assisting children with craft projects in the Children’s Tent; they also can help pick up trash and guard the resident ducks on the museum grounds. Those wanting to volunteer should call the festival volunteer coordinator Erin Cassidy at (936)2944567 or e-mail her at ecassidy@shsu. edu. The General Sam Houston Folk Festival website has updates and other information about the happenings at the festival; it can be visited at www.gshff.com.

The Place for Music Lovers Huntsville is the place to be for Texas music lovers April 21 and 28 for the Huntsville Music Festival. The event started out as a talent show for local musicians on the Walker County Courthouse Square. Now it has turned into an event featuring well known musicians and performers from across Texas, performing at Rather Park, at the corner of 13th Street and University Avenue. “Last year it changed a lot,” noted Lindsay Lauher, Huntsville Main

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Huntsville Street Coordinator and Historic Preservation Officer. “We added food trucks, we moved the events from Friday to Thursday, and we also now have alcohol concessions. Plus, we’ve got some really great performers coming, some up and coming people coming here to be a part of our music scene.”

This year’s musical theme is Texas Country Music, a genre all its own. “These bands are becoming well known, they performed at the Hideout, the side stage to the Houston Rodeo,” Lauher continued. Some of the bands and names this year include JB & the Moonshine Band, Sam Riggs and John Slaugh-

ter just to name a few. Last year’s event was so successful Lauher said the city increased her funding with the intent on bringing more people out to the concerts. Those coming to the festival should bring lawn chairs, blankets, towels, anything to make it more comfortable. “This is a family event for people of all ages,” Lauher said. “We have toddlers, college students and people from nursing homes — a little something for everybody.” The music begins at 5 p.m. with performers on stage until 10 p.m. Admission to the concert is free and the park is located a block south of the Walker County Courthouse.

Shot in the Dark Golf at Night? Give it a go at Raven Nest Golf Club in Huntsville at the club’s 13th annual Shot in the Dark Night Golf Tournament. This four-person scramble begins at 4 p.m. on the front nine, with play on the back nine beginning at dusk. Several special events are happening during the tournament, including a helicopter ball drop sponsored by Bill Fick Ford of Huntsville. At 7:15 p.m. a helicopter will hover over the course and drop 600 golf balls over a designated hole on the course. The balls will be pre-purchased and if your ball lands in the hole you will win a $1,000 Visa gift card. Golf balls are $10 each, or six for $50, or 13 for $100. To purchase a golf ball contact the Huntsville Chamber of Commerce at (936)295-8113. That’s not all, during the tournament, there are two holes where golfers can win $10,000 with a holein-one, along with a closest to the pin contest and long drive contest. On the putting green, compete for a YETI Tundra 65 Cooler, provided by Walker County ACE Hardware. There also are $6,000 in prizes awarded to first and second place winners in each flight. Contact the Huntsville Chamber of Commerce to register golf teams. Entry fee includes cart fees, dinner and snacks, glow accessories, cap, shirt and more. TFH

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SAVE THE DATE H Texas Events

Spring in Lee County Giddings gears up for the county’s annual fair and rodeo.

mack dab in the middle of Texas, at the crossroads of two major highways, Giddings always has a lot going on, and this spring is no different as this special town holds some lively events. The biggest thing in the spring for Giddings is the Lee County Fair & Charcoal Barbecue Cookoff, held at the Lee County Fairgrounds May 19-21, located just west of Giddings on U.S Hwy. 290. The big day for the fair is Saturday, May 21. This day, which also coincides with Armed Forces Day, celebrates the country’s Service personnel with a special ceremony at the Lee County Sheriff’s Posse Arena. The ceremony includes the posting of the colors, the National Anthem, firing of the volleys and a veteran guest speaker. Special displays at the fair will include current and vintage military vehicles, a rock climbing wall along with a large collection of military weapons and equipment. Other special veteran events include a special recognition for the 50th anniversary of the

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Vietnam War. Events that Saturday also include a parade beginning at 10 a.m. at Veteran’s Park. The Fair begins Thursday May 19 with The Mighty Thomas Carnival with special Thursday pricing. Friday at the Fair is senior citizens day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. That day the fair is free to all seniors age 64 and older. Special activities include bingo, a barbecue lunch, music, square dancing vendor booths and much more. Other Friday events include the Lee County Fair Queen Pageant. There also are live entertainment opportunities at the Biergarten Stage featuring the Lost Cause Band. Other venues will host the Texas Unlimited Band, the Randy Rogers Band and the Black Cat Choir. To learn more about fair events, visit the website www.leecountyfairtx.com. Other events happening in April and May include Rodeo Giddings April 8-9 at the Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo Arena. Rodeo events include barbeback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, calf roping, barrel racing,

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GIDDINGS saddle bronc, ladies breakaway and of course everybody’s favorite — bull riding. To learn more about the rodeo visit the Lee County Sheriff’s Posse website at lcspgiddings. com. If you are looking for an evening of levity on April 22, then Giddings presents comedy YouTube sensation and Southern Gentleman comedian Chad Prather. This transplanted Texan lives life to the fullest and is considered one of America’s fastest growing public personalities. He’s more than just a comedian, though, as he uses music, comedy and motivational speaking during his acts. This special evening includes dinner. Tickets to the event are $50, with dinner included. To learn more about Chad Prather, visit his website at www.watchchad.com. Another popular attraction for Lee County is the Lexington Homecoming Celebration held on the Lexington town square April 28 through May 1. Barbecue is a big deal in this area of Central Texas and here in Lexington Barbecue chefs gather to see who has what it takes to win this special barbecue cook-off. A parade meanders through the Lexington streets full of floats and other entries sure to wow the imagination. Other happenings include a classic car and truck show and an antique tractor show to go along with an arts and crafts fair. Events on May 1 wind down with a street dance in the hometown feel of Lexington. To learn more about everything going on in this special weekend visit the website www.lexingtontexas.com. TFH

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FARM & HOME

Recipes

The taste of Poland Polish dishes are easy to make and provide a delicious alternative for the family meal.

Recipes by WAYNE STEWART Photography by CHRISTINA STEWART

n celebration of the Polish influence on Texas the folks here at Texas Farm & Home decided to try some favorite Polish recipes. After a little research several recipes kept popping up, so we thought we would give them a whirl. As it turns out, there is a reason there they kept popping up — they’re delicious. Wondering what we conjured up? Well, let’s start with Kielbasa with sauerkraut and onions. For those who may not be familiar with it, Kielbasa is Polish sausage. Perhaps our favorite are the pierogies. These

pierogies, for lack of a better explanation, are like small meat pies, filled with a combination of ground meat, sour cream, cheese, onions and other ingredients combined inside a simple dough to make a nice accompaniment to a meal, or they can be the meal itself. Also on the menu is Golabki, or Polish cabbage rolls filled with pork, ground beef with various spices and herbs, and a smothered chicken breast topped with sauteed mushrooms and cheese and bacon for a bit of extra flavor. For dessert, how about some Paczki, or in Texas parlance, a Polish doughnut. April 2016

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Polish Pierogies 2 cups sour cream 5 cups flour 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 whole eggs 1 egg yolk 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons olive oil Filling 1/2 pound ground beef Salt Black pepper 1/2 pound soft mozzarella 1/2 cup chopped green onions 3 cloves garlic, crushed 1 egg For the dough, mix the sour cream, flour, butter, eggs and egg yolk, salt and

olive oil. Knead into a soft dough and allow to rest about 10 minutes. On a floured surface, roll dough out to about 1/4-inch thick, using a cutter, cut into 3-inch rounds. To prepare the filling, brown ground meat in pan, add salt and pepper while cooking. After meat has cooked, drain grease, then combine meat with cheese, garlic, green onion and egg. Mix well and season to taste. Place a tablespoon of meat filling in each dough circle. Close dough up around meat, pinching the edges to seal. Place pierogies into a pot of boiling, salted water and cook about 8 minutes. Remove to plate lined with paper towels. After they have drained, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in large skillet, place pierogies in skillet and brown on both

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sides. Remove from pan and serve with sour cream.

Golabki â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Polish Cabbage Rolls 1 head cabbage 2 pounds ground beef 1 pound ground pork 2 cups cooked rice 1 onion chopped 4 garlic cloves, crushed 2 tablespoons marjoram 1 tablespoon thyme 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 2 14-ounce cans crushed tomatoes 1 12-ounce can tomato sauce 2 cups prepared brown rice

Chop the onion and combine with mixed garlic. Saute both in two tablespoons of butter over medium heat until onions are caramelized. Remove from pan. Brown ground beef and ground pork and sprinkle in marjoram, thyme and salt and pepper. Combine meat, prepared onions and garlic and cooked rice. Mix thoroughly and set aside. Clean the outside of a head of cabbage and steam for a few minutes until the first layer of cabbage leaves peel off easily. After peeling leaves, remove any hard stems if needed. Place a couple of tablespoons of meat mixture in the middle of each leaf and roll up, placing rolled side down in baking dish. Repeat with the rest of the head of cabbage. After cabbage has been rolled up, mix crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, add a couple of teaspoons of marjoram then pour over cabbage rolls. Bake in 350-degree oven about 35 minutes.

Smothered Chicken 4 boneless chicken breasts

onion and saute in plan until soft. Remove onions and cook mushrooms in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Prepare dirty rice according to package directions. Layer plate with serving of dirty rice, chicken breast, a slice of bacon broken in half, cheese and onions. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper if desired.

1 medium onion, sliced Butter 1 package sliced mushrooms Olive oil Salt and Pepper 4 strips bacon, cooked Sliced mozzarella cheese Cooked dirty rice Grill chicken breasts until done. Slice

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cooking sheet and bake in 350-degree oven for another 5 minutes. In a large skillet, cook butter and sugar and allow to slightly brown. Add onions and cook until caramelized. Stir in sauerkraut and cook about 5 minutes until onions and kraut are wilted. Mix sausage and sauerkraut mixture to serve. To make dipping sauce, combine all ingredients, stirring well. Pour onto plate and use as a dipping sauce for the sausage.

Paczki â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Polish Doughnuts

Kielbasa with Sauerkraut and Onions with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce 1 1/2 pounds Polish kielbasa 2 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons sugar 1 onion, sliced 3 cups sauerkraut, drained Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce 1/4 cup yellow mustard 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish Salt and Black pepper to taste. Cut kielbasa into 3-inch lengths and split lengthwise. Cook on hot grill or on frying pan to char both sides of sausage. Remove from grill and place on

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1 1/2 cups warm milk (110 degrees) 2 packages active dry yeast 1/2 cup sugar 1 stick butter, softened 1 egg 3 egg yolks 1 teaspoon salt 5 cups flour Oil for frying Combine warm milk, yeast, sugar and butter and allow to sit about 10 minutes. Add egg and egg yolks and mix well, add salt and 2 cups flour to make a batter, slowly add in remaining flour. Knead dough about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place in large, greased bowl, rolling dough to coat, cover bowl and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled, about an hour. Punch down and roll out dough to about 1/2-inch thick. Use a dough cutter and cut into 3-inch circles. Allow to rise until doubled Drop dough into 350-degree oil and cook until golden brown. Remove to towel lined plate and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving. TFH

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Cafés Across Texas

TFH

GILBERTO’S

Story By Randy Rollo

Honey Chipotle Shrimp

Outstanding Tex-Mex Food

ex-Mex is classified as the ultimate comfort food. Even as the popularity of tacos, enchiladas, chili, and fajitas spread across the United States, these dishes were considered Mexican food. Then, in 1972 cookbook author Diana Kennedy inadvertently used the tag Tex-Mex, which started a regional cuisine category. In her cookbook “Cuisines of Mexico,” the English-born author made a clear distinction between “authentic” Mexican served south of the border and hybrid food being served in Texas. Today, that category of food has spread internationally, however in Texas, we are blessed with many delicious Tex-Mex options. As I travel around Texas, one of my favorite Tex-Mex stops is in Fairfield, Gilberto’s Restaurant. Gilberto’s is one of four restaurants owned

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TFH

Cafés Across Texas Gilberto’s menu has a wide variety of choices and is divided into two sides the grill and the Mexican food side. Each side of the menu has some intriguing dishes, including Ribeye steaks, four large salads, seven different types of nachos, and two versions of fish tacos. I chose three different items to sample; the Barnyard Burger, the Honey Chipotle Shrimp, and the Bacon and Poblano Enchiladas with queso blanco sauce. The Barnyard Burger is one of nine different burgers offered on Gilberto’s menu, it consists of a hamburger patty, applewood smoked bacon, an over-easy fried egg, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, mayo, and served on a fresh onion bun. This burger was fantastic with a great variety of tastes and served with kettle chips. The next dish I tried was the Honey Chipotle Shrimp. It consists of deep fried jumbo shrimp tossed in sweet and spicy honey chipotle sauce served on a bed of rice accompanied with your choice of two sides. This dish was incredible. First, you taste chipotle spice, and then the sweet honey flavor kicks in followed by the unmistakable taste of meaty fried shrimp. Finally, I sampled was the Bacon and Poblano Enchiladas. Gilberto’s offers seven different types of enchiladas and four choices of original of sauces that you can serve on top of them. I chose the queso blanco sauce to top off my enchiladas. This dish far exceeded my expectations. It is a full slice of applewood smoked bacon topped with seedless Pablano peppers rolled up with cheese and cooked

TOP: Bacon and Poblano Enchiladas features applewood smoked bacon topped with seedless Pablano peppers. ABOVE: The Barnyard Burger is one of nine different burgers offered on Gilberto’s menu.

and operated by the Gadco Corporation in the Fairfield area. One of the owners of the Gadco group, Gilbert A. Daniel Jr., know as Sonny, attended the University of Houston and studied restaurant management. He opened Gilberto’s Restaurant in March of 2000. Gilberto’s has a colorful and fun interior with an enclosed patio and a large bar. The walls surround custom-

ers with bright paintings. The bar area features several televisions on which you can watch your favorite game. The bar menu has margaritas and several craft draft beers. They have a fountain inside and an interesting tortillamaking machine. The tortillas are made fresh and fun to watch as they are pressed, heated, and slide down the different levels.

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with the queso blanco sauce and topped with more cheese. This enchilada dish delivers a fantastic flavor that melts TexMex with the unmistakable flavor of bacon. Gilberto’s serves outstanding fresh TexMex and grilled recipes. Gilberto’s opens early at 7:00 am to serve Starbucks coffees, and then to serve a full menu at 11:00 am. They are open seven days a week and close at 10:00 pm daily. Gilberto’s has daily lunch specials Monday-Friday, they also offer to cater, and have rooms for parties and meetings. Gilberto’s has a children’s menu and offer several vegetarian dishes. Gilberto’s is located at 300 E IH 45, Fairfield 75840. You can call them at (903) 389-8879, find them on Facebook, or check them out at www.gilbertosrestaurant.com. TFH

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TEXAS HISTORY + HERITAGE

FATE OF NATIONS The Battle of San Jacinto may have lasted only 18 minutes but the victory had a lasting impact on the world

ll Texans, hopefully, understand the significance of the Battle of San Jacinto. April 21, marks 180 years since Texas won its independence against the superior forces of the Mexican Army under Santa Anna. Before that day there were dark days in Texas as a large portion of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fighting men died inside the walls of the Alamo and in the land around Goliad. The future of a free and independent Texas looked bleak. The Texas Army under Sam Houston fled from the enemy rather than confronting it. All the while, hordes of Texans fled the state in what became known as the Runaway Scrape. That is, until Sam Houston found good ground of his choosing, with no way of escape for the Mexican forces under Santa Anna, cut off from the main part of his army.

Surely every native born Texan knows this. Hopefully those who have come to Texas as quickly as they could have learned these facts. Hopefully they have learned of the fierce independence of true Texans before they try and change the state. The thing is, those 18 minutes on

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the battlefield in April of 1836 did more than gain Texas its independence. Those 18 minutes changed the fate of nations; and not just Texas, Mexico and the United States, but nations around the world felt the reverberations of that moment. It was 18 minutes that changed the world.

Texas historians have put together a synopsis of how this battle shaped the future for hundreds of millions of people. The Battle of San Jacinto opened up the western territories of the current United States up to American settlement. Before Texas won that battle, the western movement of the U.S. pretty much ended at the Rocky Mountains, except for the lands in the far Northwest. While Texas became independent

with victory at San Jacinto, times were tough for Texans, money was scarce and the looming threat from Mexico hung over their heads. When Texas was officially annexed to the United States in late 1845 and early 1846, nine territories became available to the U.S. With victory over Mexico in the Mexican-American War the U.S. added a third of its current size with nearly a million square miles of territory. The Union added Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Nevada,

New Mexico, Oklahoma, Utah and Wyoming. Of course Mexico lost much of its territory, but the war, and subsequent peace opened Mexico and Latin America up to American economic interests. The affects of Texasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; victory over Mexico were not just felt on this continent, but it also had a lasting impact on Europe. Texas was a popular topic in countries like Germany. Some came to Texas and received land grants.

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HISTORY + HERITAGE They wrote letters back home urging friends and family members to come to Texas and leave the crowded confines of Germany. Thousands of Germans came to Texas after it won independence putting their distinct culture on many towns and communi-

ties across the Lone Star State. Texas independence all but drove Spain from the western hemisphere, and set in motion events that led to the Spanish American War in 1898. The results of that war forced Spain to abandon Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam

and the Philippines. Information from the San Jacinto Museum website shows that even Great Britain and France were affected by Texas winning its independence and subsequent annexation into the United States. Britain was against the annexation of Texas, but was one of the Republic of Texas’ most ardent supporters, as they wanted to maintain some influence in the region. The British did not get what they wanted, but they have maintained close ties with Texas over the years, ties that remain strong today through Texas’ vast energy industry. As for France, the French also supported an independent Texas. Many French settlers had made their way to Texas in the 1840s, with many more coming in the subsequent years. France at one time had its colonial eyes on Texas, but with annexation that dream was gone. When the smoke from the battlefield cleared, Texas had won much more than just a battle. It had secured for itself a place in the world. It secured its legend. Long live Texas. The San Jacinto Monument celebrates this special moment in Texas’ life with a festival fitting the great Lone Star State. This year’s celebration is set for Saturday April 23. Some of the events this year include: • All Stars Youth Banjo Band – Boys and girls play banjos, ukuleles, mandolins, bass guitars, fiddles keyboard and drums in an inspirational program. • Baytown Nature Center – Learn how they preserve the historic wetlands around the San Jacinto Battlegrounds. • Buffalo Soldiers National Museum – See this group of historic reenactors tell the stories of these early African-American soldiers and their impact on Texas. • K.R. Wood (Camp Cookie) – Let this original Texas storyteller bring the tales of Texas to life in his own special way. • Last Chance Forever – The Birds of Prey Conservancy present an interactive demonstration of hawks, owls eagles, falcons and vultures.

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HISTORY + HERITAGE • North Harris County Dulcimer Society – Hear the sounds of a style of music from the time of Texas’ birth. • Phydeaux’s Flying Flea Circus and Wahoo Medicine Show – See an authentic medicine show with cures for anything that ails you. • Texas Snakes – Learn the role of snakes in the environment. • Amusements – Take a ride on a camel and a mechanical bull as part of Bronco Billy’s Bucking Bulls. • Baytown Area Quilt Guild – See blacksmiths, weavers, spinners and other demonstrators show how life progressed in early Texas. • Archery lessons – Texas Parks & Wildlife offers archery classes for young people. There’s much more than this going on as re-enactors for the Texas and Mexican Army are on hand to bring this momentous occasion to life. There also is an arts and crafts fair, a Sutler’s store, selling wares to the public; square dancers, history exhibits, crafts activities, a petting zoo and other exciting adventures. TFH

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

TEXAS TRAVELS

The coffered dome is encircled with stained glass.

Discovering East Texas History in Marshall The story of East Texas comes to life at the Harrison County Historical Museum Story by MARILYN JONES

arshall has long been famous for the elaborate holiday lighting of its Old Harrison County Courthouse, but have you ever gone inside? When you do, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a treasure trove of East Texas, Harrison County and Marshall historic artifacts that are arranged throughout main floor rooms. The Courthouse Built in 1900 at a cost of $62,000, the courthouse features classic Roman architecture with a capital-style dome. In 1964 it became the site of Harrison County Historical Museum after a new courthouse opened nearby. Located in the center of Whetstone Square, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a Texas Historic Landmark.

The outside, with its ornate details and bright yellow paint, is just a teaser for whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inside. The center of the rotunda soars upward toward a coffered dome. Between the coffered dome and the outer dome are the workings of the clock dome. Each of the three floors facing the rotunda is framed by beautiful metalwork railings. Exhibits Rooms After paying a small admission, I was ushered into a tiny room where I watched a short video on the history of the county. From here I entered the first exhibit room. From Caddo artifacts the displays advanced to the first pioneers and the Peoples Republic of Texas to the late 1800s, discovery of oil, April 2016

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TEXAS TRAVELS

ABOVE: A display honors hometown hero George Foreman. RIGHT: Several historic photos are on display in the museum. BELOW: Decorative trim lines the walls of the old courtroom. FAR RIGHT BOTTOM: Lady Bird Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ball gown from the inaugural is on display at the museum.

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

April 2016

TEXAS FARM & HOME

TEXAS TRAVELS and boogie music that originated in and around Harrison County. Through photos, informational plaques and artifacts, the story of East Texas comes to life including historically African-American Wiley College. The college and its debate team were center stage in the 2007 movie The Great Debaters, directed by and starring Denzel Washington. The true story takes place when in, 1935, Wiley College debate team defeated the reigning national debate champion, the University of Southern California — depicted as Harvard University in the movie. Another room is dedicated to local residents who went on to command national attention: First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, boxing champion George Foreman, and Emmy Award winner and journalist Bill Moyers. Notable pieces on display include an inaugural ball gown worn by Lady

Bird Johnson, George Foreman’s world championship belt and the Emmy Bill Moyers won for his documentary Marshall, Texas. Moyers received well over 30 Emmys and virtually every other major television journalism prize. Guests are also invited to go to the second floor where the old courtroom is located. Now used as by city council, guests are welcome to admire the workmanship that went into this room when council is not in session. A historic courthouse, a museum, a monument to the past; the Harrison County Historical Museum is an interesting destination for anyone seeking information about Texas’ past.

If you go:

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the exception of Independence Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas holidays –

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pressure to have a stone cut. If miners decide to have one cut or made into jewelry later, they can mail it back to the mine. Other mines Prior to visiting Mason Mountain Mine, I stopped by Jackson Hole Gem Mine. Here I first learned about enriched buckets. Staff member Jamie Crotts explained that gems are found at different

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TEXAN

North Carolina Gem Mining 101 By Marilyn Jones

I jotted down the names of gems and minerals that can be found at Mason Mountain Mine near Franklin, North Carolina, as Tom Johnson steered his pickup truck up a steep incline toward their source. “Rhodolite garnet, pyrope garnet, smoky quartz, moonstone, kyanite, cordierite, surface copper ore, ruby, sapphire and small traces of emerald,” he ticked off as he pulled his truck to a stop in front of a backhoe and massive boulders. “My parents bought the property in 1965 when I was six months old,” he said. “I grew up with the mine and so have my boys — Brandon, Benji and Brad. My wife Ginger and I now own the business. “We offer our customers two different mining experiences,” Tom explained. “For option one, I load up the dump truck with soil from

the mine with the backhoe and take it down to an area near the flume. We also offer enriched buckets with our gems mixed with gems from other mines.” After heading back down the mountain, I decided to try my hand at mining with an enriched bucket. Sitting at a long wooden flume with running water, I added dirt into a screen bottomed wooden box. I was instructed to lower the box into the water to wash away the dirt. Picking up the tray, I began to sift through the washed stones. With each scoop of dirt and swish in the water, the excitement continued to build as more gems were revealed. I found green and purple fluoride, purple amethyst, milky moonstone, small

December 24 through January 4. For more information: http://harrisoncountymuseum.org/home; 903-935-8417, extension 1. TFH

For George McCannon, owner of Old Pressley Sapphire Mine near Asheville, there’s only one way to mine — from the source. He doesn’t enrich any of his buckets and says he is proud of the beautiful sapphires his customers find on his property. One of the oldest operating mines in western North Carolina; it was made famous by the discovery of the 1,445 carat ‘Star of the Carolinas.’ George also recently found one sapphire that netted him a 243 carat necklace of beautiful cobalt blue gems. “Sapphires come in different colors,” he explained as he showed me sparkling specimens. “Blue, blue/grey, pink and other colors. “It’s a lot of work operating the mine,” George said with a smile. “But I really enjoy it. You never know what you might find.”

When you go emeralds and rubies, dark red garnets, green aventurine, royal blue sodalite, rose quartz and sapphires. After mining, I took my treasures into the gift shop to be examined. There is no

mines around the world, combined and added to their buckets. This type of mine is usually associated with tourist areas where mining is offered.

Find the right mine Enriched mining: Jackson Hole Gem Mine, 9770 Highlands Road, Highlands; jacksonholegemmine.com; (828) 524-5850. Small buckets begin at $10.

To view full story and more photographs visit WWW.TEXASFARMANDHOME.COM

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

April 2016

TEXAS FARM & HOME

GARDENING BASICS

let’s get growing — tips for April

Hugelkultur

April Gardening Events Story By Jolene Renfro

Crockett Garden Club & Master Gardener

pril is the trifecta of gardening when 3 major national gardening events occur in the same month: Earth Day-April 22, Arbor Day –April 29, and National Garden Month-All of April. Add to that the local Crockett Garden Club Spring Plant and Bulb Sale-April 8, and you have an unbeatable combination of events based on growing plants. Earth Day reminds us to go outdoors and enjoy what nature has provided for us — a tonic of fresh air, contact with the warm soil, and companionship with wildflowers and wildlife. In the United Methodist Church, April 24 is set aside as The Festival of God’s Creation

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

to celebrate God’s gift of creation and to commit to stewardship of the environment. Some great activities to celebrate Earth day are: 1. Planting wildflowers in the landscape (especially milkweed for the threatened Monarch Butterfly who’s numbers have gone from 1 billion to only about 30 million due to environmental pressure). 2. Taking the 40 gallon challenge to conserve water (don’t prerinse dishes prior to putting them in the dishwasher, don’t let the water run as you brush your teeth, take

shorter showers), and support clean water efforts by not putting toxic chemicals in the water stream by pouring them down the drain. 3. Remembering to Reduce, Reuse, and RECYCLE to keep as much stuff as possible out of the land- fill. Try to find new life for those things that are normally thrown away (for example cattle feeding tubs make great planters for flowers or vegetables). 4. Vowing to use few pesticides and herbicides in your own landscape to keep from killing beneficials along with the pests. Started 136 years ago by J. Sterling Morton, Arbor Day has been encouraging people to do the Earth a favor by planting a tree (or trees) for a very long time. It is traditionally celebrated on the last Friday in April, which this year falls on April 29, but may be celebrated anytime from November until May depending on the best time in your area to plant a tree. Here are some things to do for Arbor Day: 1. Tell people to take a hike — April 2016

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GARDENING BASICS and have a tree specialist come along to identify the trees you see. 2. Sponsor a tree planting in a park or other civic area. 3. Adopt a tree to care for. If you cannot do the work, pay to hire an arborist to trim or rehab an ailing tree. 4. Read a book to children such as “The Giving Tree”. 5. Have your organization hold a tree planting ceremony. The National Gardening Association’s slogan is “When you garden, you grow” and for National Garden Month encourages people to: 1. Plant an extra row to feed the hungry. 2. Have a plant swap. 3. Organize a Community Spring Cleaning. 4. Participate in Civic Beautification project. 5. Help landscape and/or decorate a local nursing home. 6. Submit gardening articles to the local newspaper. 7. Help a child get interested in gardening. 8. Go in with your neighbors to purchase compost,

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

mulch, etc. in bulk, and share garden tools. 9. Give garden books or magazines that you are finished with to the local library. 10. Get involved with a local garden club. The first sentence in the Bible says that….In the beginning God created the Heaven and the Earth. Scientists estimate that the Earth is about 4.5 billion years old (give or take a few hundred). A recent program on TV asked the question, what is the Earth worth? When the value of the precious metals (platinum, silver, gold), timber, rocks like granite for building, food crops, metals such as iron used for building, oil and coal, precious stones such as diamonds, rare earth elements used in electronics, and most importantly water, are all added together, the Earth is worth 6.87 quadrillion dollars. And God gave us the Earth for free! More than its monetary value, however, the earth is our home and God had charged us with taking care of the world and keeping it beautiful for the generations that are to come. The Crockett Garden Club celebrates April by holding its annual Spring Plant and Bulb Sale this month. (This year the sale falls on April 8). Besides making outstanding plants available at a very reasonable cost, garden club members are available on that day to answer questions and give gardening advice. With 1000 years of combined knowledge, someone from the club can probably help you achieve the best results in your gardening efforts. TFH

TEXAS EVENTS April

7 — JEFFERSON: Diamond Don’s 14th Annual AHRMA National Vintage Motorcross National Vintage Motocross which includes Charity Golf Tournament on Thursday, Cross Country and Trials on Friday, Vintage Motocross on Saturday with Post-Vintage on Sunday. The weekend will be full of motocross legends from around the world. Come out and see Brad Lackey, Steve Wise, Trey Jorski, Guy Cooper and event legend Arlo Englund. www.DiamondDon.com FOREST COUNTRY 8 — CROCKETT: Annual Spring Flower and Bulb Sale hosted by the Crockett Garden Club; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Old Filling Station across from First United Methodist Church of Crockett. Renew your flower beds for spring and summer enjoyment. Money made from the sale goes into community beautification projects. FOREST COUNTRY 8-16 — LIMESTONE COUNTY The Limestone County youth livestock show, PRCA rodeo, horse show “buckle run” & barbecue cook off will be held at the county fairgrounds April 8-15 with the buyers lunch & project sale on Saturday, April 16. PRAIRIES AND LAKES 9 — HUNTSVILLE: Herb Festival at the Wynne Home hosted by the Texas Thyme Unit of the Herb Society of America. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1428 Eleventh Street in Huntsville. There will be a large selection of herbs, camellias, butterfly and hummingbird plants for sale. Speakers, local artists, musicians, children’s activities and vendors will round out the day. The event is free to the public. For more information, call 936-891-5024 or visit Texas Thyme Unit - Herb Society of America FOREST COUNTRY 10 BRENHAM: Heritage Society Spring Homes Tour Heritage Belles in period dress guide guests through three homes of historic and architectural note. Giddings Stone Mansion, 2203 Century Circle. www.giddingsstonemansion.com

979/836-1690 PRAIRIES AND LAKES 15-16 BURTON: Burton Cotton Gin Festival The cotton era comes alive with tours, a parade, auctions, live music, folklife demonstrations, a tractor pull, petting zoo and contests at this 27th annual festival Texas Cotton Gin Museum, 307 N. Main. www.cottonginmuseum. org 979/289-3378 PRAIRIES AND LAKES 15&16 —HENDERSON: 21st East Texas Antique Tractor & Engine Club Show “Memories of YesterYear”. Rusk County Youth Expo, FM 13 off Loop 571; Contact Don Reynolds 903-889-2671 FOREST COUNTRY 15 - 17 — GRANDVIEW: Antique Alley Texas and 30 Miles of Shopping The towns of Grandview, Cleburne, Sand Flat, Alvarado, Maypearl and Venus offer this biannual community 30 mile flea market. Pasture sales with 100’s of vendors between Grandview and Cleburne. Each town has their own style of festival. Check web for complete information. Official Maps are given out at 300 E. Criner Street in Grandview. DO NOT PARK ON HIGHWAYS. Pull into pasture shows where free and safe parking are provided. Book rooms in Alvarado or Hillsboro because the show is big and too much to shop in just one day. This may be your first Antique Alley Texas but it will not be your LAST! 817-240-4948, AntiqueAlleyTexas.com PRAIRIES AND LAKES ENNIS: Bluebonnet Trails Festival This event pays tribute to the Texas state flower with arts and crafts, food, live music, children’s activities, vendors and maps to wildflower hot spots. Downtown, 101 N.W. Main St. W. www.visitennis.org 972/878-4748 PRAIRIES AND LAKES 16 FLATONIA: Crawfest Enjoy a crawfish feat with all the trimmings plus live music, beer and wine from 6 p.m.–midnight. Flatonia American Legion Hall, 1225 U.S. 90 E. www.flatoniachamber.com PRAIRIES AND LAKES

TEXAS EVENTS is a list of festivals and happenings occurring around the

state. We recommend that you call before traveling to an event to verify the time and date as sometimes dates change. If you would like to submit an event to the calendar, please send to P.O. Box 130, Grapeland, TX 75844 or e-mail to cstewart@texasfarmandhome.com. Please submit information at least two to three full months before the first of the month in which the event will take place.

16-17 — JEFFERSON: Jefferson Gun & Knife Show shop for new and antique guns, knives, knife sharpening equipment, ammo, gun parts, archery, reloading equipment and supplies, scopes, holsters and many other shooting related items, all in a safe, fun and family-oriented environment! Bring your gun (unloaded, of course) and trade up for the gun you’ve always wanted! This is a boutique-style gun show it is smaller than other shows in the surrounding areas, so we are monitoring table sales to insure that the tables contain mostly guns, knives, ammo, reloading equipment, archery and related items. A limited number of outside booths will be sold to jewelry, candle, jerky and other outdoor sporting equipment vendors. Held at the Jefferson Visitor Center; www.jefferson-texas.com FOREST COUNTRY 15-24 — PALESTINE: The 1836 Chuckwagon Race Bring horses, mules and wagons to camp out on the ranch and participate in the many activities on the schedule, or just come and watch the fun. Races begin Friday at 1 p.m., drawing competitors from all over the U.S. in four wagon classes, bronc fanning, pasture roping, mounted shooting and the Alamo race. Diamond B Ranch, 11589 F.M. 321. http://1836chuckwagonrace.com 903/721-9111 FOREST COUNTRY 20-22 — JEFFERSON: Jefferson’s Opera House presents “Vanities”, by Jack Heifner at the Black Swan. Tickets will go on sale by April 1 at OMG Lulu’s, The Black Swan or on the internet at www.JeffersonOperaHouseTheatrePlayers.com. Seating is limited and early purchases are recommended. More information may be obtained by calling 903665-2310/ FOREST COUNTRY 20-23 LUFKIN: Angelina Benefit Rodeo George H. Henderson, Jr. Exposition Center, 1200 Ellen Trout Drive. http://angelinabenefitrodeo. com 936/637-3976 FOREST COUNTRY 21-24 HALLETTSVILLE: Texas State Championship Fiddler’s Frolics Features the fiddling contest, plus a barbecue cook-off and craft vendors. Hallettsville KC Hall, 321 U.S. 77 S. www.kchall.com PRAIRIES AND LAKES 22-24 — GEORGETOWN: Red

April 2016

Poppy Festival Includes nightly concerts, a parade and street dance Saturday, car show, more than 100 artisan booths, children’s zone and other activities. Hours are 6–9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday. Georgetown Square, 103 W. Seventh St. www.RedPoppyFestival. com 800/436-8696 PRAIRIES AND LAKES 23 — WECHES: Mission Tejas State Park’s annual Folk Festival, from 10am until 3pm. Park entry is free for the Folk Festival. Donations for the Mission Tejas State Park Friends Group will be accepted. Daily lives of the pioneers, occupations and crafts will be demonstrated by folks in period costumes. Demonstrations will cover pioneer life such as: the one room school, pioneer toys & games, quilting, chair making, Caddo stories & atlatl demonstrations, spinning, weaving, bobbin lace making, churning, soap making & laundry, quill pen & penmanship skills, an edible plants tour, authentic trapper camps, traveling medicine man, Buffalo Soldiers, wild west re–enactments, firearms, flint knapping and so much more. Also, the Jacksonville Jammers dulcimer music and Texas Top Guns authentic chuck wagon cooking and a silent auction. Located on Hwy 21 between Alto and Crockett in Weches. 936-687-2394 FOREST COUNTRY 23 — VERNON: Roy Orbison Birthday Celebration Held at Roy Orbison Park at 4400 Sand Road. Concert and birthday celebration honoring the Vernon native and Rock and Roll Legend Roy Orbison www.visitvernontx.com PRAIRIES AND LAKES 29 — JEFFERSON: Civil War Living History, “Day of Learning”, complete with a gunboat and cannons 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at Diamond Don RV Park. The Great Locomotive Chase/The Andrews Raid, aboard a live steam train; Train departs from Diamond Don RV Park; Friday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.; Additional trains may be added depending on demand. www. JeffersonCivilWarDays.com FOREST COUNTRY

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TEXAS EVENTS 29 - May 1 — PORT ARANSAS: Texas SandFest Sculpting. Coastal. Memories. Run completely by volunteers, the popular invitational event draws visitors from around the globe to participate and to watch the fun. www.texassandfest. org GULF COAST 29-30 BASTROP: Yesterfest This celebration of the myriad cultures that settled in this area includes music, historical re-creations and demonstrations, costumed characters, tours of historic homes, pony rides and hayrides, vendors and children’s activities. Downtown. http://bastropyesterfest. org PRAIRIES AND LAKES 29-30 CORSICANA: Derrick Days Pro Rodeo Exciting rodeo action features contestants from the CPRA and UPRA, as well as thrilling American Freestyle Bullfights and McCoy’s Mutton Bustin’ for the little ones. The actionpacked, fast-paced performance will also feature five-time CPRA Contract Act of the Year Ronald Burton, four-time UPRA Announcer of the Year West Huggins, and the award-winning livestock of the Hat Brand Rodeo Company. Navarro County Exposition Center, 4021 Texas 22 W. www.derrickdays.com 903/654-1653 PRAIRIES AND LAKES 30 CORSICANA: Derrick Days Discover Corsicana’s rich history, which includes Texas’ first oil boom at the turn of the century, in this hometown festival. Includes a parade, chili cook-off, entertainment stages, vendors, food booths, carnival, oil field tours, rodeo and volleyball tournament. Downtown. www.derrickdays.com 903/654-4851 PRAIRIES AND LAKES 30 — GONZALES: Dutch Oven Cook Off held at the Gonzales Pioneer Village, 2122 N. St. Joseph Street; Contestants must cook a meat, bread and/or dessert. 830-857-4102, gonzalestexas.com SOUTH TEXAS 30 — LIVINGSTON: Downtown Tabby Cat Adoption The SPCA of Polk County will be offering cats and kittens for adoption for $20. The adoption fee covers the spay/ neuter surgery, rabies vaccination, micro-chip and the cats/kittens will be up to date on their feline vaccinations. The first 10 adopters will receive a free copy of the book Downton Tabby by Chris Kelly. There will be refreshments, door prizes and a drawing for a gift card to a local Livingston restaurant.

Come out between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to hobnob with feline nobility and find your purr-fect aristocat. ID and references are required for adoption. 802 South Houston, Livingston, TX. www. spcaofpolkcounty.org phone 936327-7722 FOREST COUNTRY 30-May 1 — WACO: 56th Annual Waco Gem and Mineral Show by The Waco Gem and Mineral Club at the Extraco Events Center on Saturday April 30th and Sunday. Show Hours are: Saturday- 9-6; Sunday 10-5; Admission Prices: Adults $5, Children ages 6-12 $1, Scouts in Uniform free, Parking - free, Some of the items you will be able to find at our Show, Cabs, slabs, precious and semiprecious gemstones, handmade jewelry, geodes, fossils and much more! For more information please see www.wacogemandmineral.org Or Facebook event page at: https://www.facebook. com/events/1614239535487235/ PRAIRIES AND LAKES 30-May 1 — JEFFERSON: Jefferson’s Civil War Weekend The Great Locomotive Chase - The Andrews Raid Re-enactment - aboard a live steam train; Naval Battle of Port Jefferson. Complete with a gunboat and cannons; Trains depart from downtown Jefferson depot; Saturday Narrated Historical Day Tours & Naval Battle: 11 a.m. , 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Sunday Narrated Historical Day Tours & Naval Battle: 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Come ride a live steam train and experience the story of The Andrews Raid, the Civil War’s most gripping railroad story. See the living history camps along the river, and the soldiers from the North and South re-enacting the Great Locomotive Chase and the Naval Battle of Port Jefferson, complete with cannons and gunboat - the largest naval civil war re-enactment west of the Mississippi. Keep your seat on the train as the battle rages around you. www.JeffersonCivilWarDays. com FOREST COUNTRY

May

6 -8 — FAYETTEVILLE: (Arts for Rural Texas) Annual ArtWalk 112 N Washington St, Town Square, Over 60 artists assemble for a juried show. A variety of fine art, jewelry, fine crafts, food, wine tasting, music and kids’ art-activities are offered. ArtsforRuralTexas. org PRAIRIES AND LAKES 6 & & — SALADO: Annual

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

Gospel Festival Best singing groups in Texas. Food available at Tablerock Concessions. Admission $5 Adults, $3 children under 12. Call Events Director for auditions: Jim and Alvalin Woodul at 254634-4658 or jimwoodul@aol.com PRAIRIES AND LAKES 7 — TAYLOR: Annual Blackland Prairie Day The Blackland Prairie Days is a heritage festival paying homage to the cultural and agricultural makeup of Taylor, Texas and is held in the historic Downtown streets of Taylor. The festival starts at 10 a.m. and features live talent and music as well as arts & crafts, food, children’s activities and an evening street dance. Admission is free. PRAIRIES AND LAKES 7 — JEFFERSON: Mothers’s Day Express Includes stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit for alligator feeding (weather permitting); SPECIAL - STEAM TRAIN; Saturday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.; Mothers receive a 10 percent discount when accompanied by their children. Come ride an antique Steam train. FOREST COUNTRY 13-15 — PORT ARANSAS: Art Festival and Songwriter’s Showcase Features arts and crafts booths and performances by local musicians. Robert’s Point Park. www.portaransasartcenter.org; 361-749-7334 GULF COAST 14, 21-8 — FAYETTEVILLE: Fayetteville Chamber Music Festival Country Place Hotel. Extraordinary musicians from Europe and around the Unites Sates come to Fayetteville to rehearse and perform. PRAIRIES AND LAKES 14 & 15 — JEFFERSON: Train Days SPECIAL - STEAM TRAIN; Saturday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Narrated Historical Day Tours: 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.; Jefferson’s 5th Annual Train Days. Enjoy the rough and ready cowboys of the Lonely West Traveling Gun Show, aboard a live steam train, complete with cannons, gunfights and a train robbery, on every train. Combo Tickets available online for all four destinations: Jefferson Train Show, T&P Model Train Depot, Jay Gould Car and Historic Jefferson Railway. Tickets available at each venue during event weekend. info@jeffersonrailway.com www. JeffersonTrainDays.com FOREST COUNTRY

18-21 — VERNON: Historic Santa Rosa Roundup Parade and Rodeo held at the Santa Rosa Grounds in Vernon. www. santarosaroundup.com PANHANDLE PLAINS 19 WIMBERLEY: Concerts at Susanna’s Kitchen Top musicians take the stage at this intimate venue. Begins at 7:30 p.m. Susanna’s Kitchen, 1200 C.R. 1492. www.wimberleyumc.org 512/7223316 HILL COUNTRY 21 — LEANDER: Old Town Street Festival The Old Town Street Festival, one of Central Texas’ newest and soon to be most popular events, is a fun festival held each spring in downtown Leander’s charming Old Town District. On the third weekend of May, the streets of Old Town Leander fill with local and national artisans offering handcrafted creations. Musical acts bring the stage to life, and family-friendly activities delight both adults and children. Food vendors provide both healthy and indulgent choices. Local and regional wineries and distilleries bring a special flair with a visit to the wine and beer tent. There is no entry fee, but some activities, food, and beverage purchases will require tickets. Tickets can be purchased at the Leander Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center or at the festival. http:// www.oldtownstreetfestival.com PANHANDLE PLAINS 27-29 ENNIS: 50th Annual National Polka Festival Experience the authentic cuisine, music and costumes of Czech and Slovak heritage at the 50th annual National Polka Festival. Features 19 live polka bands, the King and Queen Dance, arts and crafts, and great Czech food. Various locations. www.nationalpolkafestival.com 972/878-4748 PRAIRIES AND LAKES 28 — PITTSBURG: 4th Annual Pittsburg Art & Wine Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on our Historic Main Street at Pendergrass Park. Live music, food, artists and handmade vendors and East Texas Wineries. Free event. If you want to participate in wine tasting it will be $5 to get your Pittsburg Art & Wine stemless wine glass and tote bag. Please visit our website: www.pittsburgtexas.com. FOREST COUNTRY

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April 2016

TEXAS FARM & HOME

COUNTRY AS CORNBREAD H By LOIS MARIE GUYMER

Toothfairy Tracks!

nce upon a time many years ago, my brother discovered a loose tooth inhibiting his smile. After much agonized wiggling and jiggling, the offending pearl was dislodged ... resulting in much rejoicing throughout the land. Well, actually Mama did make a plate of fudge for supper, in honor of the big “coming out!” Eventually, after all the admiration and celebration had died down, the lost tooth was tucked under my brother’s pillow, and we all retired for the night. The next morning, sure enough, there was a nickel in its place. Happily he and I headed for the kitchen to show Mama, and there we made an amazing discovery. Embedded in the leftover plate of fudge sitting on the table were tiny footprints! It looked as if a pair of itty-bitty boots had just marched right across that fudge! We giggled and grinned our way through breakfast, gazing at the tracks and speculating as to why the Toothfairy had made a detour through the kitchen – did she smell Mama’s fudge and drift through to sample a smidgen, or had she simply gotten turned around in the dark and stumbled across it by chance? Finally our mother, being the understanding lady she was, allowed us to finish breakfast with a sampling of those fairy tracks, and they were the finest thing we’d ever tasted! At last though, the dishes were cleared and it was time to get started on the day. Making the beds was always first on the chore list, and that morning was no exception. After a few minutes of diligent effort on our part, Mama came in to help with the finishing touches. And it was then that she made the second most incredible discovery of the morning. Our beds were shoved up close to the wall, which was covered in that thick, old-timey wallpaper. My brother slept on the side nearest the wall, and it was there, as she leaned across to tuck the covers down, that Mama saw something. Excitedly she called us to come and look. Hurriedly scrambling across the bed, we leaned over to see what she was pointing at. There, marching up

the wallpaper beside my brother’s pillow, was another clearly visible line of little boot tracks! About a foot above his pillow, the prints grew fainter and fainter until they just disappeared into thin air. My brother and I lay there on our stomachs gazing at those tracks for a long time, marveling at the mystery. Where had the Toothfairy come from and where did she go, and how did she do it without us knowing? Off and on all day, we would drift back to the bed and climb up to examine those tracks, gently running our fingers over the tiny indentations. When Daddy came home from work, he barely made it in the door before we were dragging him to the bed, simultaneously bombarding him with our story. And he was just as amazed as we had been, sharing in our joy and excitement! Supper that night was full of happy chatter just as it often was, only this time the conversation was definitely unique! As Daddy consumed the last piece of fairy-tracked fudge we had saved to show him, we all gave a collective sigh, knowing this would be one day we would never forget! Many other teeth made their way under our pillows in the months and years after that fantastic morning, but we never found another track. Perhaps the Toothfairy had been careless in leaving those faint footprints. Or perhaps, as I like to imagine, she just had a sense of humor and purposely chose to leave behind a little mystery now and then, to fill childish hearts with wonder and smiles! Authors note: Not so many years ago I was cleaning out the old family barn and ran across a box of my brother’s little green army men. As I took them out my mind strolled back to the years of our youth and to how he always left them laying all over the house. And as I held one of the tiny green soldiers, remembering, it suddenly dawned on me that it wore itty-bitty boots. And that’s when I made the connection. Call me slow, but for the first time I realized what my mother must have always known . . . my brother’s little green army men wore the same size boots as the Toothfairy’s tracks! TFH

You may purchase a copy of Mrs. Guymer’s book, Country As Cornbread, for $12. Please send payment to Lois Guymer, 362 CR 4401, Jacksonville, TX 75766 and specify for whom you’d like the book autographed.

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016

April 2016

TEXAS FARM & HOME

TEXAS FARM & HOME April 2016