Granbury, TX
Granbury, Texas is one of those main street towns that could be a movie set. A beautiful court house square, ringed with commercial buildings and diagonal parking. While it is located less than an hour from Forth Worth, it feels worlds and years away.
Founded in 1887, and named for Confederate General Hiram Granbury/Granberry, today it is considered one of most complete examples of 19th century courthouse squares in Texas. In fact, it was the first town square in Texas to be added to the National Register of Historic Places, way back in 1974. The shops now sell mostly decorative items and antiques; practical goods no doubt are purchased at the Walmart off the highway. Nevertheless, the architecture remains, and for this we should be thankful.
Farina’s on the square not only serves amazing Italian food and several local wines, it is housed in a beautiful building. They even have a few rooms upstairs, including the Jesse James Suite, that overlook the square. The dining room has an antique bar and a Tiffany lamp, so stop by at least for a drink. You would however be crazy not to eat there. The garlic bread was divine.
There are actually several wineries in the area, including the fairly new Barking Rocks. Located a few miles outside of town, not far from the Brazos river, it is a perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Situated on an old ranch, the tasting room is actually one of the former outbuildings. The owners are happy to do private tastings, and throw in a tour of the operation. Their Zinfandel was fantastic, as was the atmosphere.
Heading back to town, the main attraction is the courthouse. Built in 1890, and constructed of limestone, it is the fifth courthouse to occupy this site. Designed by Wesley Clark Dodson in the Second Empire Style, it is three stories of architectural eye candy, topped with a stunning mansard roof. The central clock tower rises an additional 3 stories, and keeps watch over the town. All municipal buildings should be this lovely.
No trip is complete without a historic hotel, and you will find one here, right in the square. Sadly, we used points for this trip, and stayed at the soulless, but perfectly nice Hilton Garden Inn, located a short walk from the historic district. However, if possible, you should stay at the Nutt House. Unless you hate historic hotels, then you should absolutely stay at the Hilton. It is right next to the town beach, and has lovely water views.
Eponymously named after the three brothers who built the building, two of which were blind, the 1893 hand-hewn limestone structure contains a shop downstairs, with rooms above. Originally a general store, the Nutt’s eventually converted the second floor to guest quarters, opening the Nutt House hotel in 1910. Many original features remain, and the location can’t be beat. And while Jesse James may or may not be buried in the town cemetery, the Nutt’s most certainly are, and you are welcome to visit their final resting place, located a few blocks away from their legacy.
Grabury, like many old Western towns, also has an Opera House. Considered the mark of civilization, no town was complete without one. Originally built in 1886, this beauty has been fully restored and renovated. Many original features remain, including imported chandeliers, limestone walls, filigree iron balcony railings, and twin curved staircases. The Opera House still hosts live performances as well as movie nights, so be sure to check their schedule.
Local legend also claims Abraham Lincoln’s assassin was not killed in Virginia as reported, but that he moved to Granbury in 1870, to live out the remainder of his years under the name John St. Helen. The man who walked with a pronounced limp (no doubt from leaping off a balcony at Ford’s theater) and frequently quoted Shakespeare, may or may not haunt the Opera house. St. Helen, who reportedly bore a striking resemblance to John Wilkes Booth, allegedly confessed to the crime on what he thought was his deathbed. He actually recovered, then slipped quietly out of town.
Makes for a good story, and even if it wasn’t him, there are plenty of actual historical figures in Granbury’s past. Davy Crockett’s wife even moved to the area following her husband’s death at the Alamo, and is now buried in nearby Acton. Her grave was declared a state park in 1911, where she eternally stands looking West from the top of a pillar.
Granbury also has great outdoor spaces, including both a city and a beach park, as well as a 2 mile hike/bike trail from downtown to their airport. They even have an operational drive-in, should you want to see a movie under the stars. Something for just about everyone makes this is an excellent weekend destination. And, they aren’t afraid to call parents out for unsportsmanlike behavior. Winning town, all around.
