Hondo, seat of Medina County is number 19 on my list. The courthouse dates from 1892, but it's been altered and, in 1942, had a pair of "wings" added. The building is in fair condition, but could use a complete restoration. I spent an hour walking the downtown. There are a number of 19th and 20th century buildings that are interesting. And, a railroad running through the center of town, so I'm happy.
Medina County courthouse. 1892 and 1942.
Back home in Houston. Saturday morning I drove to nearby Washington County, "birthplace of Texas" and home of Blue Bell Ice Cream. Two very important facts in my opinion. The county seat is Brenham. It's number 16 on my list. Although the courthouse is a rather typical, boring 1930's federal style building, the surrounding historic downtown is worth a visit. While there visit the Brenham Heritage Museum on Market Street. The new director, Doug Price, has a great building, the former US Post Office, to work with and a lot of energy. Brenham is home to many fine 19th century buildings that are in very good condition. I had lunch at "Eats" on the courthouse square. The Shiner Bock was cold and only $2 a bottle. Good enough to earn a thumbs up from me!
Eats is a restaurant, bar, and sweet shop on the square in Brenham.
Washington County courthouse. 1939. The clocks don't work.
On my way home I stopped by the Austin County courthouse in Bellville. The juxtaposition of this 1960's modern building in the center of the traffic circle in the traditional town square is odd. On this visit I toured the county museum, located in the 19th century jail, just off the square. Austin County is number 17 on my list.
Austin County courthouse. 1960. The sign says it all!
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