TRAVEL GUIDE TO THE WASHINGTON COUNTY AREA
Texas’ early settlers were enticed by the beauty of the wilderness lying between the
Colorado and Brazos rivers. They came with Stephen F.Austin’s hardy colonists and later were joined by German and Czech settlers who added their own ethnic flavor to the architecture and way of life.
Thanks to these early settlers, the area today still carries a vigorous spirit of enthusiasm. Antiques abound. Old homes are being restored, preserving the European methods of construction. And the food is, in many places, a feast of German and Czech country cooking.
Here’s our armchair guide to this historically rich part of Texas — all within about a hundred miles’ drive of Houston. Not all towns are listed; this is a sampling of the area. For details or brochures, most towns have a chamber of commerce which would be happy to send you more information.
CHAPPELL HILL
Among the attractions are the recently restored Stagecoach Inn (built in 1850), the Asenath O. Weems House (1866), Waverly (1850), White Hall (1853) and Independence Plantation (circa 1855). Most of the houses can be viewed, with tours offered often by the owners themselves, on weekends throughout the year as well. When visiting Chappell Hill look for :
• The Museum — An adapted school building that contains examples of mid-1850s clothing, farm implements and equipment, blacksmithing tools and historical documents. Open every day.
• The Rock Store — Made of solid rock, this is the home of the Chappell Hill Historical Society. The feature attraction here is a 40-foot wallhanging done in stitchery, depicting the history of Chappell Hill.
• The Old Commissary — This is the place to buy Chappell Hill’s famous homemade sausage. Open every day except Sunday.
Throughout the month of October the Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Scarecrow Festival. Local merchants and civic organizations participate by constructing the eeriest in scarecrows. Visitors to the town may vote on their favorites.
Chappell Hill celebrates the Fourth of July with a parade which features the Chappell Hill Marching Kazoo Band. The local children are decked out in red T-shirts, each one humming his or her kazoo.