We have nine homes, business and outbuildings which were
brought together from all around Gonzales County. In addition, our Pioneer Opry
Stage, Saloon, blacksmith and wheelwright shops contain authentic equipment and
complete the story of an early Texas small town. The structures are furnished and
as you visit each one we hope it feels as if the owner just stepped out for a moment.
7 - Blacksmith Shop
1880s
The town blacksmith was one of the most sought after tradesmen during the last of
the 19th century. Towns and villages without one of these skilled persons would sometimes offer
free land for their shop to tempt them to set up in their area. Our blacksmith shop houses
hand-forged equipment from the 1880s and 1890s which was actually used in this area. At most of
our events our blacksmith demonstrates the use of these tools and displays many useful and
beautiful items which can be made.
Adjacent to the blacksmith shop is our Wheelwright’s shop where wooden wagon and buggy wheels were made or repaired.