‘Magical History Tour’ gives glimpse into early days of Boerne
Boerne offers more than just quaint shopping, excellent restaurants and breweries on Main Street. Just off River Road at Boerne City Park, a plethora of activities are available — among them the fascinating AgriCultural Museum and the inspiring Art Center.
Robin Stauber, adult services from the Patrick Heath Public Library and Kristy McNelly, president of the AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center board, led a group assembled May 16 on what was deemed the “Magical History Tour” as they recounted the area’s history and how it is used today.
The land for Boerne City Park, encompassing the Kendall County fairgrounds and Cibolo Nature Creek, was generously donated by local families in the early 1900s. After establishing essential amenities like the pool and soccer fields, the focus shifted to cultivating the artistic spirit.
Recognizing Boerne’s vibrant artistic community, the creation of a welcoming Arts Center in 2001 became a natural step. This space allows residents and visitors of all skill levels to explore their creativity through painting, drawing and various crafts.
Arts Center events take place on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. and provide attendees with an introduction to applied arts techniques. The center grounds are also used to host antique tractor pulls, the Boerne Spooktacular and a pumpkin patch.
The Magical History Tour wounds its way through Boerne City Park’s five acres to the Agri- Cultural Museum. Housed primarily in a historic red barn, the museum offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era — a treasure trove of agricultural heritage.
Museum Director Chuck McNelly emphasized the museum’s mission is to educate younger generations. Many children have little exposure to rural and farming life and the museum’s exhibits, featuring implements from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s, bridge this gap.
Stepping into the barn is like stepping back in time, showcasing the tools and techniques that shaped previous generations. Tours and hands-on demonstrations are provided.
A pioneer house on the grounds looks like an oversized doll house, certainly not large enough for a family. But that’s precisely what it was — a family home for American pioneers in the 1700s and 1800s. The display of clothes irons through the years is a great pictorial of how technology has evolved over the years.
Across from the big red barn, a blacksmith shop sparks to life every Saturday, offering demonstrations of this captivating craft. For the musically inclined, there is a bluegrass jam held at the museum on the second and the fourth Saturdays of the month.
Despite its nearness to Main Street, the Agri-Cultural Museum and Art Center offer a seamless escape into a bygone era with its big red barn and pioneer house. The magic of history comes alive in this little slice of Boerne.
To learn more about the art classes, visit https:// hccarts.org. For more on the AgriCultural Museum, visit http://www.theagricultural.
org.
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