Category Archives: Texas

Welcome to Bonham, Texas

With a population around 10,000 people, the town of Bonham, Texas can be found 75 miles northeast of Dallas and 12 miles south of Oklahoma. History can be found in this small, north Texas town.

Bonham is one of the oldest cities in Texas. Settled around 1837, the town was named after James Bonham who fought in the Battle of the Alamo. When the Texas and Pacific Railway came into play, Bonham grew. By 1885, there were multiple churches, public schools and multiple newspapers. Employers included saw and grain mills, an ice plant and the Texas Power and Light Company. During WWII, the US. Army Air Forces maintained a training camp, aviation school and POW camp for captured German soldiers.

Surrounding the courthouse in the town square, statues commemorate the Civil War, Confederacy and the legends of Bonham.

“At the call of his boyhood friend William Barret Travis, he came to Texas in 1835 and engaged in the War for Independence as aide and messenger for Travis. He was faithful unto death at the Alamo March the sixth 1836.”

“To The Confederate Soldiers who sacrificed their lives for a just cause, this monument is lovingly dedicated by the Daughters of the Confederacy, aided by the Confederate Veterans Association of Fanning County.”
“From 1861 to 1865, they fought for principle, their homes, and those they loved. On Fame’s eternal camping ground their silent tents are spread, and glory guards, with solemn round, the bivouac of the dead.”

Another historical figure in this area is Sam Rayburn who was one of the most influential politicians in the 20th century. During his career in the U.S. House of Representatives, Mr. Rayburn’s career would bring him to serving under eight Presidents including Lyndon B. Johnson with which he held a close relationship. In 1914, he purchased 121 acres just outside of Bonham where built his family home. Today, it is open for tours.

Head into town and the Sam Rayburn Library can visibly be seen. It’s a beautiful building that can’t be missed coming into town.

Bonham shows that Texas history is alive and well.

For more information:
Sam Rayburn House Museum

Rahr Oktoberfest 5k (and Discount Code)!

Discount Code: ‘DHT’ to save $5 on registration.

To help us all get into a better beer drinking and running shape, two social runs are also scheduled at the brewery – Saturday, August 1st and Saturday, September 5th. Check out the Rahr Oktoberfest 5k event page on Facebook (see the events tab) for more information!

Who is going to join me?!

Hook ’em Horns – A Personal Tour of UT Austin

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There’s nothing more exciting than experiencing somewhere new with someone who absolutely loves what (or where) you are about to enjoy. We recently were in Austin for the weekend and during our time in the city, I received a tour from one of UT’s biggest fans and alums.

We started our morning early (to beat the heat if we’re being honest) and began our tour. First thing, we walked by the football stadium and Texas War Memorial just outside the stadium. This memorial is dedicated to all of the American Veterans in all wars. This memorial is vast, it’s incredible to see all of the names. Honestly, I never knew this was here but what a great tribute at a location where thousands come every year.

Having attended a much, much, much smaller campus, UT’s campus was both a fascination and a confusion. This campus is huge and walking around touring the buildings took us well over an hour. If I had provided a tour of my campus, it would’ve taken maybe, 20 minutes. The best example is the size of classrooms. Although, not all classrooms are this size, my trusty tour guide made sure to bring me into a room that he knew would blow my perspective. This is a large lecture hall. I’m quite certain, my entire college graduating class could’ve fit in this classroom (and I would’ve known the majority of them).

Perhaps the most iconic building on campus is the UT tower. Inside, you will find elaborate details in the ceiling and outside the Life Sciences library with marble floors and stairs. Outside, looking down thru the South Mall, you will find the State Capital building is directly to the south. Surrounded by the “six-pack” (six buildings surrounding the mall), there are various statues of historical leaders including Jefferson Davis, Woodrow Wilson and George Washington. It’s an incredible view on a historical campus. We even got to see a bride and groom greet each other on the tower steps for the first time before their wedding.

Here are a few more photographs from our walking tour…

One of the best ways to experience a new place is to experience it with someone who absolutely loves it. You’ll see the best of the best, hear endless stories of their experience and be brought to some locations that only the locals would know about. You won’t just get to see the cover on the book, you’ll really get into the nitty gritty what makes this such a special place.

Have you had an opportunity to experience somewhere new (to you) with someone who absolutely loved where you were at?