Texas History in

Brenham, Texas

Brenham, located just a short drive East on 290 out of Austin, is a great place to visit for a few days of beauty and history.   Brenham is located 70 miles west of Houston, 100 miles east of Austin, 195 miles north east of San Antonio, 35 miles southwest of Bryan/College Station, and in the heart of historic Texas! The map shows the location relative to Brenham.  The town is close enough to Houston, many live in Brenham and commute.

 Within less than an hour of Brenham there is the Washington-On-The-Brazos, the area of historic Independence, historic Chappel Hill, Blue Bell Ice Cream Factory, the Antique Rose Emporium, downtown Brenham's quaint shops and special dining at Café M. Bloomers, Must be Heaven, Voltaire's Italian Restaurant, and others.  

The Star Of The Republic Museum built in the shape of a star to represent the Texas Republic Star for which the Lone Star State is know.  It is a located on a 300 acre site and the building is an 8,000 sq. feet modern facility, two stories in height, filled with Texas history and artifacts. 

Independence was well established as the wealthiest community in Texas by the mid-1800's. Sam Houston was the most famous resident and the town became the home of Baylor University.   This day trip is not for the water park 6 flags seeking groups, but for those with a love to step back in time, the Brenham area makes for an interesting trip. There are a number of homes from the mid 1800's to visit, the old Baylor park, the residence of Mrs. Sam Houston, some stores dating back to the turn of the century and early 1900's, and some cemeteries with markers in the 1800's.

  The Independence Baptist Church, founded in 1839, is the oldest Texas Baptist congregation still in existence. It was here when Sam Houston converted to the Baptist faith and was baptized by Dr. Rufus Burleson in the waters of nearby Rocky Creek. Independence is located 9 miles North of Brenham. Take 105 and exit onto FM 50 for the short drive.

Sam Houston lived in Independence after serving as Senator from Texas . He rented a house not far from the Old Baylor Ruins. There is a pew still in the old church where he once carved his initials during a sermon  There are numerous homes, etc. related to his life here.

The Antique Rose Emporium is a never-to-be-forgotten tour for the rose lovers. Ares of antique roses bust forth with pleasing aromas and beauty. Call 210 651 -4565, open seven days a week, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. These hidden treasures of the past are located at 9300 Lueckemeyer Rd., Brenham, Texas.

Chappel Hill , Texas is an especially good historical area. This community was established about mid 1800 and became a thriving town of sawmills, railroad, churches, schools, and cotton farms. Hit by the Civil War and Yellow Fever of 1867, it never recovered totally. The Chappel Hill Historical Society is a worthy tour of approximately 60 places in the area to visit, and many can be done by walking just a very short distance to their locations.

Washington is where it all happened, and   just outside of Rename, Texas. This is where Texas became a nation free from Mexico. There is a wonderful Visitor's Center, Museum, State Park, and lots more. As one walks the hallowed grounds the sense of the      importance       of        the independence of Texas becomes almost sacred. 

Take time to visit the Pleasant Hill Winery for a tasting tour. I know I don't have to remind you not to miss a visit to Blue Bell Ice Creameries . For information about the tour, or you'd like to make reservations, call 800 327-8135 or 979.830-2197.

There are a number of outstanding Bed and Breakfast, as well as motels in the area. I have an article on Lillian Farms B&B in the Photo And Travel B & B section of this issue.  Happy Traveling