Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit Coming to Brenham

In Texas, Museum on Main Street (MoMS) is a special partnership of the Smithsonian Institution and Texas Historical Commission (THC) that serves the small-town museums and citizens of rural America. Brenham was chosen as 1 of 7 towns in Texas to host the Smithsonian traveling exhibit, Crossroads: Change in Rural America. This exhibit offers small towns a chance to look at their own paths to highlight the changes that affected their fortunes over the past century. The exhibit prompts discussions about what happened when America’s rural population became a minority of the country’s population, and the ripple effects that occurred.

This exhibit will be shown in Brenham in Morriss Hall at The Barnhill Center (106 South Douglas Street) from December 7, 2024 – January 19, 2025, and will be open 7 days a week. Hours can be found here!

Local Exhibits

Along with the main attraction of the Smithsonian exhibit, visitors can enjoy local exhibits, immersive experiences, and activities that highlight the unique history and culture of Washington County!

Brenham Heritage Museum, Downtown Brenham

Belle’s Alley

208 South Park Street, Brenham, TX 77833

Just steps away from Toubin Park in Downtown Brenham is Belle’s Alley. This new, permanent exhibit was created for everyone to learn about the undertold story of the numerous Freedom Colonies that were established in Washington County between 1865-1930 by the formerly enslaved. These colonies took root during a volatile time of our history and became places where Blacks could feel safe, develop a sense of community, and begin living their lives as freedmen. An interactive scavenger hunt is also created for this exhibit. This exhibit is open to the public at all hours!

Camptown Soundwalk Experience

Starts in Jerry Wilson Park at 900 E. Alamo Street, Brenham, TX 77833

The second Freedom Colonies Exhibit is the Camptown Soundwalk Experience, located in Camptown east of Downtown Brenham. Did you know that Camptown was named because it was the original site where Federal troops were stationed in Brenham during Reconstruction, and that more than 70 businesses called Camptown home? The Camptown Soundwalk Experience includes 7 stops along a walking path through this historic community, with panels sharing historical information at each with QR Codes to an immersive audio tour that incorporates stories, and sounds, to take you back into the history of each stop. This is a new, permanent exhibit that is open to the public at all hours!

Century of the Simon Exhibit

The Barnhill Center – 106 South Douglas Street, Brenham, TX 77833

A Century of Simon Exhibit, Downtown Brenham

A Century of Simon Exhibit takes visitors on an interactive journey through the long colorful history of the Simon Theatre. The experience starts in 1881 when the Simon family entered the entertainment business in Brenham, which led them to build and operate the Simon.

The history takes visitor through the Simon’s early vaudeville days, Hollywood’s Golden Era, movie trends and censorship, the Great Depression, WWII, and its eventual decline, as with most other American downtown districts. Finally, the Simon’s Great Revival story is told, which restored the magnificent building and began its current robust operation. Personal stories are shared from those who attended during all eras. Visitors are invited to take photos in front of an authentic vaudeville stage backdrop, and possibly leave their own memories and stories.

Introducing: Washington County Soundwalk Experience

Like the Camptown Soundwalk Experience developed for the new permanent local exhibit in Brenham, an immersive audio tour encourages visitors to listen to stories of important sites in Burton, Chappell Hill, Independence and at Washington-on-the-Brazos. On these walking tours at each location, visitors can scan QR codes to listen to each Soundwalk. This gives each community another opportunity to share the stories that are part of what made them what they are today.

All these Soundwalks will be introduced and available for your listening enjoyment by the opening of the Smithsonian on December 7, and we’re grateful to those in each community who have worked to help put this experience together!

Activities & Experiences

One man herding a longhorn and the other man is behind them walking. Two small, historic home are in the background with lots of trees and greenery. Washington-on-the-Brazos. — Washington-on-the-Brazos, Washington

In addition to the exhibits and soundwalks, we have created a variety of of activities for you to enjoy! For nature and history lovers, explore beautiful Washington County and find the numerous historical markers we have by using our Historical Markers Guide. For art lovers, finding our many murals throughout Downtown Brenham can be easy with our Mural Map. Don’t forget that Brenham is also a wonderful place to shop, eat and explore. Bring the family, have a girls trip, or even a romantic getaway, but definitely plan to stay because there really is something for everyone!

History Related Events Happening in Washington County

For a full list of events, check out our Event Calendar. For more information on Christmas events, go to our Holiday Happenings Blog!

All Trails Lead to Houston Exhibit

October 2024 – January 2025: Brenham Heritage Museum

Brenham Fire Museum and Brenham Heritage Museum at sunset — Brenham Fire Museum and Brenham Heritage Museum, Downtown Brenham

Brenham Heritage Museum Speaker Series

November 5 & 19, December 3 & 17, January 7 & 21: Bus Depot Gallery

Polish Koledy in Chappell Hill

December 28, 2024 – Details TBA

Outside of Chappell Hill Historical Society Museum — Chappell Hill Historical Society Museum, Chappell Hill

Sam Houston Speech Reenactment

January 11, 2025: Historic Simon Theatre at The Barnhill Center

Cemetery Hayride Tours

January 12, 2025: Independence

Film Round-up with Texas Archive of the Moving Image

January 18, 2025: The Barnhill Center

Exterior of The Barnhill Center at sunset — The Barnhill Center, Downtown Brenham

For constant updates on everything happening during the Smithsonian exhibit, follow our Facebook Page!

Summer Fun in Brenham

The days are getting longer and the sun is shining, which means that it is time to plan your summer trip to Brenham, Texas! Come spend a few nights at one of our wonderful lodging properties because there is no shortage of fun during the summer months. Make your summer to-do list for Brenham & Washington County today!

Summer Events

Main Street Chappell Hill Artwalk - May 25, 2024; Come to Chappell Hill to shop and meet the artists in the variety of stores while they create original artwork throughout the day.

Summer Sip & Art Walk - June 8, 2024; stroll through unique shops in historic Downtown Brenham while tasting signature drinks and enjoying a variety of featured art.

Cotton Gin Classic Car & Truck Show - June 8, 2024; Annual Car & Truck Show held in the shadow of the oldest operating cotton gin in America, located in Burton, TX. This event is weather dependent; in case of rain, it will be on June 15 instead.

Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration - June 8, 2024; Washington on the Brazos is proud to celebrate Juneteenth as a part of Washington County’s long history of marking the end of slavery in Texas. This year the event will focus on the evolution of Black music in Texas. There will be food trucks, vendors, informational and cultural heritage booths, and lots of fun!!

WCJA Juneteenth Ceremony & Parade - June 15, 2024; Annual Juneteenth Parade in Downtown Brenham held by Washington County Juneteenth Association.

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes - Saturday evenings July 6, 13, 20, & 27; Bring your lawn chair and gather around the historic downtown square to listen to the sounds of live music and walk through the classic car show. Admission and parking is FREE!

Chappell Hill Independence Day Parade & Festivities - July 4, 2024; It's the best small town parade you'll experience! Come on out to celebrate Independence Day in Chappell Hill.

Annual Independence Celebration - July 4, 2024; Fireworks will be visible for miles, so there's plenty of room for everyone to come out and celebrate our freedom and independence in Independence, TX.

Chappell Hill Wine & Cheese Swirl - August 10, 2024; Stroll the shops along Chappell Hill's charming Main Street and taste a variety of wines and chocolate pairings.

Movies in the Park Summer Series - May 31, June 21, & August 2, 2024; Bring the kids and watch movies including Sharktale and The Little Mermaid at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, and Under the Boardwalk at Hohlt Park. All movies will start approximately 10 minutes after sunset.

Summer Activities for Kids

Blue Bell Creameries is a must visit when you are in Brenham! It is usually only open on the weekdays, but during the summer months of June-August, the Ice Cream Parlor and Country Store will be open on Saturdays from 10am-4pm as well. To experience everything Blue Bell has to offer, including the parlor, visitor center, country store and observation deck, please come on weekdays from 8am-5pm.

Other fun activities include swimming at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, playing arcade games, mini golf, and racing Go-Karts at Horseshoe Junction, roller skating at Silver Wings Ballroom, picking lavender at the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, and horseback riding at Rockin' Star Ranch. There's fun for everyone in Brenham & Washington County!

Burgers in Brenham

When Brenham comes to mind, you may think of Blue Bell and rich Texas history. While that is all true, one thing you might not expect when you are here, is that you are in the middle of a foodie’s paradise. From authentic Italian food to award winning BBQ, Brenham/Washington County has it all! One staple that can be interpreted a million different ways is a big juicy hamburger with all the toppings and your favorite sides.

We’re celebrating National Cheeseburger Day by providing a bucket list of places to get an amazing burger in Washington County! Our inspiration came from local resident Michael Mullins on his quest to try all the hamburgers in the county. He has been documenting his journey on Facebook. Visitors and locals alike can appreciate this quest, as you might get the chance to have your favorite burger raved about, or even find a new hidden gem! Watch for Michael’s comments in quotes.

1. Bevers Kitchen

Bevers is famous for their homemade pies, but don’t miss out on their burger. “Bevers Kitchen sells pies and is not known for their burger, but they should be,” said Michael. “This is a solid old-fashioned hamburger just like you would have in your mom’s kitchen on a Sunday afternoon.”

2. Brossa’s Cibo e Vino

Burgers aren’t typically what you would expect at this authentic Italian restaurant, but like the rest of the food on the menu, this burger is made from only the best ingredients… Wagyu. Served during lunch, covered in caramelized onions, their parmesan Reggiano cheese sauce, and sandwiched between a brioche bun, you will be licking your fingers non-stop!

3. Burton Short Stop

Convenience store, restaurant, and gas station all in one in Burton! You won’t want to miss their daily specials, especially their hamburgers. Make sure to grab either a piece of pie or one of their homemade cookies on your way out.

4. Country Sunshine

These burgers are unlike anything you have ever tried before. “This burger doesn’t come with the lettuce, tomatoes, and onion salad that some great burgers have–and it doesn’t need to. It stands alone in taste and looks.” Filled with homemade pickles, cheese and sauce, the burger is perfect alone or paired with one of their incredible sides. Trust us. You will not be disappointed with this burger or anything on the menu.

5. Dairy Bar

If you want an iconic establishment in Brenham, then try Dairy Bar. Established in 1985, it still makes one of the best burgers in the county. You will most likely always find a long drive through line and the inside packed with locals. “This is as local as it gets.” Be sure to add curly fries and a chocolate shake to your order!

6. Independence Store

When you arrive, you might be confused by the look of a gas station, but not to worry – you are in the right spot. “The burger came wrapped in silver foil and it was hot, the fries looked like they were made for a TV commercial.” This is the best hole in the wall you can find. “Remember when you come here to eat, don’t be in a hurry, slow down and relax. Take in the history and the wonderful folks who run it.”

7. LJs BBQ

LJ’s is known for its award-winning BBQ, but have you ever tried their burgers? “Let me start by saying this is no normal hamburger. It’s cooked to perfection. The secret for this bad boy? Smoked then grilled.” This is the type of burger you skip breakfast for and then are still too full for dinner later. They serve until they sell out, so make sure you get there early!

8. Nathan’s BBQ

Recently written up in Texas Monthly magazine for its traditional style of BBQ-ing, this family-friendly restaurant is where you will find locals on a Sunday afternoon for lunch. “I enjoyed the atmosphere and decor and, rest assured, that delicious, juicy hamburger.” Nathan’s is another staple in Brenham and a place you do not want to miss.

9. Pioneer Smokehouse

Didn’t we say Brenham has great BBQ? Well, great BBQ means great burgers. Pioneer will give you an amazing atmosphere with an even better burger. You choose your toppings to your liking and then be prepared to have to use two hands to tackle this thing. Right in the heart of downtown, Pioneer has the atmosphere, the drinks, and the burger!

10. Smitty’s Cafe & Bakery

For a place known for their chicken fried steak, they sure can do a burger right in an old gas station turned into an amazing restaurant. “Their list of burgers is long, but they do not disappoint. They make their own buns and that is what made this burger stand out.” Make sure to have a slice of pie before you leave!

11. Wild Bill’s

When you are heading out to Lake Sommerville, you will not want to miss Wild Bill’s, adjacent to the entrance to Rocky Creek Park. You’ll walk into a nice wooden bar where you will be welcomed and order a burger where they don’t skimp on the meat. With three choices of fries for your side, you will not be disappointed with the atmosphere and the burger.

So tell us! Where is your favorite burger in Brenham/ Washington County?

Sometimes the best things in life are FREE … or pretty close …

TOP NINE FREE THINGS

to do and see in Washington County!

The ‘dog days’ of summer are here and you are dreaming of having fun—something beyond the blow up pool in the backyard. You NEED to get out of the house, experience a complete change of scenery, make some memories, feed your spirit … without breaking the bank! No worries. Head to the Brenham and Washington County area! It’s an easy drive away—halfway between Houston and Austin—and a world away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.

Window Shop in Historic Downtown Brenham and Chappell Hill

You’ll feel the stress melting away as you stroll our peaceful historic streets and experience small town friendliness and charm. Take a moment to sit in the shade of huge oak trees surrounding the Courthouse in Brenham or the historic buildings in Chappell Hill and don’t be surprised if you get a friendly wave or two. FREE!

New Splash Pad near Fireman’s Park

Take a seat at a nearby picnic table and watch the kids laugh and play in the cool, clean water. You might just want to join them! Good, clean fun for all. FREE!

Peeka Ranch Alpacas

Get up close and pet these beautiful animals. You’ll fall in love as soon as you gaze into their sweet eyes, complete with enviable long eyelashes! FREE for those under 17, $5 for adults! Appointments required.

Texas Cotton Gin Museum in Burton

History comes alive with this one-of-a-kind experience. Built in 1914, the Burton Farmer’s Cotton Gin is the oldest operating gin in the U.S. The museum is full of cotton memorabilia and the store offers fun, cotton-inspired shopping. Open Tuesday – Saturday from 10-3. The Museum is FREE for everyone. Tours at 10 am and 2pm are FREE for children 5 and under; Students $4; Adults $6.

Let Giant Murals Inspire Your Creativity

Drop by the Visitor Center in Downtown Brenham and pick up a passport or download a map here, that will direct you to all the breathtaking murals that have been painted by famed muralists from around the country. Truly inspiring—and great backdrops for selfies! FREE!

1. Chappell Hill Lavender Farm

Ahhhh, the sweet smell of lavender! Take a scenic drive to the Chappell Hill area and walk among the rows and rows of gorgeous lavender plants. The shop offers a variety of lavender-inspired soaps, food, gifts and more. Fresh air and lavender are FREE ! Open Thursday – Sunday, see website for hours.

Antique Rose Emporium

This 8-acre complex features nature in all its glory and is a definite “must see.” Photographers love the endless vignettes (charges apply for professional photo shoots). Gardeners are inspired by the creative uses of plants and found objects that dot the gardens. Nature lovers get their ‘fix’ of all things beautiful in these display gardens. FREE! Open Thursday – Sunday, see website for hours.

Old Baylor Park

Sprawling old oak trees shade this historic site, where stone ruins remain from Baylor University’s earliest days. Picnic tables and a playground make this a favorite stop for traveling families. An easy two-mile round-trip walk (or drive) takes you to Independence Cemetery, one of the most soulful historic cemeteries in the area. FREE!

Blue Bell Creameries

No trip to our area is complete without visiting the creamery. Browse the Blue Bell Visitor Center for all kinds of history, pictures, and videos. Savor a generous scoop of your favorite Blue Bell ice cream from the Parlor (only $1 per scoop) and a trip to the Country Store for a unique gift. Important Note: Observation Deck is not currently open, but the Parlor, Visitor Center and Gift Shop are FREE and open Monday – Friday 8am-5pm.

Plan a weekend stay to do it all! There’s plenty to do and see in the fresh open spaces of our area—without breaking the bank. You are FREE to roam our area. See you soon!

Bluebonnets and Beyond

It seems that we barely finish ringing in the New Year before people begin to ask us ‘How’s the bluebonnet crop this year?’

It’s a true obsession. A rite of passage. A Texas tradition carried on throughout countless generations. Almost a primal need to find the perfect spot to plunk down your babies, both human and fur, to ensure the bluebonnet season (and said family members) have been preserved in history. No other wildflower will do, it must be bluebonnets for a true Texas bluebonnet baptism ... no disrespect meant ... but sometimes it does feel almost as important.

Let’s be honest, finding a giant field of bluebonnets is like walking into a picture painted by the hand of God. There really is nothing like it, especially if we are lucky enough to experience a ‘Super Bloom’... oceans of bluebonnets as far as the eye can see ... cascading wave after wave, adorning our fields and hillsides.

However ... what if the Spring doesn’t give us a Super Bloom, or perhaps you miss the blooming peak by a week ... but you still NEED that bluebonnet fix.

No worries ... all is not lost!

Take a moment and look around. It’s beautiful here, regardless of Super Blooms. Really beautiful, with so much to take in and enjoy ... beyond the bluebonnets.

Wildflowers are everywhere, in every color and are ever changing depending the time of spring or summer you visit our area. Multi-colored phlox carpet the earth, then bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and wine cups reach for the warm spring sun and Indian blankets and coreopsis let us know that summer is in full swing.

Wildflowers can be amazing tour guides in Washington County. They can lead you to places and experiences both expected and unexpected.

A favorite stop for bluebonnet hunters is Old Baylor Park in Independence. Centuries old, graceful oak trees gently shade the area where old Baylor Female College once stood. Situated just off Highway 390, it’s a perfect location for travelers who have driven the scenic highway to relax and take photos.

While there, take a look around and you’ll discover hidden sites. The Independence cemetery is nearby where you’ll gaze on a treasure of old graves that lie beneath mounds of wildflowers that seem to understand they are gracing our ancestors who are at rest beneath. Truly a beautiful and historical place.

Texas Baptist Historical Museum welcomes visitors to discover the area’s past. This is where Sam Houston attended church ... you can even see where he carved his initials in the pew!

Plan your visit around the lunch hour and come hungry! The Independence General Store (circa 1900) serves the best hamburgers around. Grab your sodas and longnecks from the coolers and order at the counter. Then, head out back and enjoy the breeze on the raised deck while waiting for your burger. No doubt you’ll be visited by the resident goat who will meander up the wooden stairs and peer through the gate to check for any leftovers ... and he’s usually not disappointed ... there’s always a bite or two left to share. Forgot to mention this is a casual affair, no tie needed. Ha!

Time to walk off lunch. Luckily, just five minutes up the road you’ll find the Antique Rose Emporium. This eight-acre botanical garden center offers views from every angle and antique rose varieties of all types ... not to mention a ton of native plants. It’s the perfect place to take a walk and breathe in the fresh air while surrounded by nature.

There’s so much to do and see, you’ll want to plan a weekend ... or a few days to take it all in!

Chappell Hill’s Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas, Burton’s Cotton Gin Festival, and Brenham’s Cool Nights, Hot Tunes all land on the same date this year, April 18th. Enjoy the festivals by day and head to downtown Brenham that evening for a free outdoor concert under the stars, around the courthouse square. It doesn’t get more fun or more Texan than this ... it’s great fun for the whole family.

Super Bloom? Only time will tell. Super Fun? Definitely … come exploring all the sites and sounds our area has to offer. There’s no better way to unwind, relax and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us in Brenham and beyond.

See you soon!

Riding the Salt Grass Trail

It’s rodeo time in Houston. Every March, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ gears up for a month of BBQ, rodeos, world-famous performers, livestock shows, auctions, and much, much more. Kicking off this month-long celebration are the 12 trail rides that begin in February and come in from all over Texas. But it’s the Salt Grass Trail Ride that is the “Granddaddy of Them All” which got its start back in 1952 in Brenham.

Reese Lockett was a Brenham boy who had made it big.

His rodeo abilities got him movie roles where he became friends with Gene Autry and Will Rogers. He traveled to England to perform in a wild west act for the King and also staged annual rodeos at Madison Square Garden. He eventually returned to Brenham to work in the banking industry and own a men’s store downtown. In 1934, he was elected mayor and held that position for the next 28 years (minus a 6-year hiatus). While mayor, he “maintained” his cowboy status by living on a large ranch and helping organize both the Texas Prison Rodeo in Huntsville and the Houston Fat Stock Show. But it was a trip to the Orange Bowl game in Florida resulting in cancelled flights home that evolved into the Salt Grass Trail Ride.

After he finally made it home from Florida, a few friends were talking, and Lockett vowed to “never make another trip where I can’t ride home on my horse.” One of Lockett’s friends asked him to be an Arena Director of the Houston Fat Stock show and he was reminded of his vow. Yet another friend thought it would be great publicity for the rodeo if Lockett rode his horse to Houston all the way from Brenham.

On January 30, 1952, Reese Lockett, Pat Flaherty, E.H. Marks, and John Warnasch left Brenham with a chuck wagon and followed the pioneer cattle drive trail, known as the Salt Grass Trail, to Houston. Along the way, 13 other people joined the journey and drew more publicity than those four men ever expected. In a few short years, the ride grew to over 2,000 riders. It continues every February; the 103-mile journey still marks the start of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo with over 20 wagons from the Salt Grass Trail riding in the parade in Downtown Houston. Lockett was the trail boss of the Saltgrass Trail Ride from 1952-1969. This year, the ride will begin on February 21^st in Cat Spring and arrive at the parade in Downtown Houston on February 29^th. The Salt Grass Trail Ride has become a family tradition for many. Today there are grandchildren and great-grandchildren riding alongside their parents and grandparents on the week-long journey.

Lockett had a huge impact not only on the formation of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ but in Brenham and Washington County as well. He was an active member of the Chamber of Commerce, served on the board of Blinn College, and as a former Maifest King (wife Hester was a Maifest Queen) he was always a part of the annual Maifest Association Celebration.

In honor of all his contributions to Brenham and Washington County, a statue by Edd Hayes, titled “Ready to Ride,” was installed near City Hall in Lockett Plaza on September 11, 2001. I took a personal interest in Mr. Lockett’s story since I started riding Salt Grass back in 2005 when my step-sister got me involved. I ride with wagon 21, The Rounders (who formed in 1973), and look forward to it every year. Due to volunteering at the BBQ Contest with the Houston Rodeo, I only get to go for the weekend. It’s always terrible weather. It’s a lot of work, with late nights and early mornings moving rigs to the next camp. Riding all day wears you out pretty quickly but, MAN! is it ever fun. The late nights by the campfire created a bond with people who started out as strangers but grew to be some of the best friends I have. The kind of people who would give you the shirt off their back if you needed it, no matter the situation. With today’s modern conveniences, camp looks a lot different than when Mr. Lockett rode. I have to say, although I really wish I could’ve ridden once back in the early days, I greatly appreciate the campers and trailers of today instead of the bed rolls and tents of yesteryear. I moved to Brenham in 2012 and Mr. Lockett’s statue is not too far from my house. I drove by it for YEARS not knowing who he was or why he even had a statue. If it hadn’t been for working at the Visitor Center, I would’ve never known about our little “connection.”

Thanks to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™, the Saltgrass Trail Ride Association, and the Texas State Historical Association for detailed information.

Charging Your Electric Car in Brenham

Did you know that Brenham has 4 public electric car charging stations? The City of Brenham installed a 2 vehicle station at 206 W. Vulcan St. in Downtown Brenham May of 2019 and when traveling through from Houston to Austin, it’s a great stop to “recharge” both your car and yourself! Stop in for a coffee or a meal at one of our Downtown restaurants. Spend some time browsing our quaint shops. Or even take in Toubin Park and learn about the history of Brenham. In addition to the Downtown charging station, there are also stations located at the Coach Light Inn, Holiday Inn, and Best Western hotels.

Traveling long distances with an electric car takes some planning. Imagine setting out on a road trip in your electric car, only to learn that your destination doesn’t have a charging station! You need to plan “rest stops” along the way for your car to charge. Since it’s located in Downtown Brenham, it gives travelers a chance to experience everything Downtown has to offer while their car is “juicing” up.

The details an electric car owner needs to know about the downtown charging station in the Vulcan Street lot (across from City Hall at 200 W. Vulcan):

IT’S FREE!
It’s an EVSE-RS dual pedestal system with a standard SAE J1772 connect.
It charges all SAE J1772-compliant vehicles, including both electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles with a 25 ft cable, Level 2, 32-amp.
Find all the electric car chargers in Washington County on PlugShare.com and ChargeHub.com