VICTORIA
Guadelupe Victoria was founded in 1824 by Martín De León, a Mexican empresario, who named the city in honor of General Guadelupe Victoria the first president of independent Mexico.
The city primarily remained in Mexican control until the defeat of Santa Anna at the battle of San Jacinto. Anglo settlers then expelled the Mexican residents and renamed it simply Victoria. An influx of European immigrants, particularly Germans, followed in the mid-19th Century .
The city primarily remained in Mexican control until the defeat of Santa Anna at the battle of San Jacinto. Anglo settlers then expelled the Mexican residents and renamed it simply Victoria. An influx of European immigrants, particularly Germans, followed in the mid-19th Century .
Here are some images of Victoria — another place we've frequented often.
A Brenham Bartop - click to enlarge
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This view of lined up stools and a well-seasoned bartop waiting for customers to arrive, is in one of the first restaurants we visited in Brenham.
The town has some excellent, culturally and ethnically diverse places to eat and drink - what better reason to keep returning to this quaint, yet vibrant town. |
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Fire Company Museum - click to enlarge
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The city has a very close relationship with it's Fire Department. The 'Burning of Brenham' in late 1866 saw the destruction of over half of the town. It all started with a disagreement in a dance hall, and ended with Union soldiers setting fire to the city.
It is no wonder then, that Brenham Fire Company No. 1 in South Market Street is now a beautifully kept and fascinating museum honoring firefighters. |
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The Old Train Depot - click to enlarge
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Brenham also has a long history with the railroad, first arriving in April 1861 with the Washington County Railroad. The railroad has evolved through many iterations, and up to 40 trains pass through the city daily.
This shows the Old Train Depot dating back to 1869 - reimagined as a Smokehouse restaurant. |
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South Park Street - click to enlarge
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Brenham is a quintessentially Texan town - it is a hub not only for residents and visitors - it is also for everyone in the surrounding communities, including smaller towns, ranches and farms.
It's not surprising then, to see a family out and about, all dressed in their blue jeans, cowboy hats and boots. It's a Texan Town with Texas folk! |
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Washington County Courthouse - click to enlarge
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A final shot showing the Washington County Courthouse in at the heart of downtown Brenham. The first three courthouses were constructed at various times throughout the 19th century.
The present courthouse is Art Deco in style, built in 1939 and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. |
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Next, our travels took us down to the Texas coast - who doesn't like a day at the seaside!
Click on the street sign to continue the journey. |
Click to continue the journey
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