Texas Hill Country Bluebonnets

We took a few drives to look at the wildflowers.  We were going to drive the famous Willow Loop Trail but were told by the Llano Visitor Center that we were too early and all the flowers were not out yet.  They gave us other drives to take to view the wildflowers.  I still think we are too early.  They are really in bloom starting in mid-March to mid-April.  But I did take some pictures to share.  Mixed in with the bluebonnets are Indian Paintbrush and daisies.

Pioneer Museum, Fredericksburg, Texas

In May 1846, 120 men, women and children began the last segment of the long and dangerous journey from Germany to their new homes in Texas.  Hope of a freer, more prosperous future for themselves and children strengthened them to endure the miseries of the trip and the hardships yet to come.

Over 160 years later, the people of Fredericksburg celebrate the unique community they created and strive to maintain the culture and the values that sustained them. The Pioneer Museum immerses visitors in the lives of these past generations.  The grounds are shaded by large pecan trees and landscaped with native plants (and funny looking chickens).

Luckenbach, Texas

Of course, we had to make a stop in historic Luckenbach, Texas (Go to Luckenbach, Texas, Willie, Waylon and the boys .....).  There was a group of bikers there, as well as many families.  The famous Post Office is now a store, and they also have a hat store, small restaurant and large open arena where they hold concerts, which are many.  They also have a primitive campground if you wanted to camp there.

Rangers Heritage Center & Fort Martin Scott, Fredericksburg, Texas

We learned about The Texas Rangers at the Rangers Heritage Center (besides what knowledge we had from watching Walker, Texas Ranger). The Rangers started around 1823.  Their service is marked by the Ranger Ring of Honor, noting the names of those who died in the line of service.  The Gonzales Rangers and also called "The Immortal 32" is dated March 6, 1836; The Dawson Massacre was on September 18, 1842; The Mexican-American War was between 1846-1848.  The last date of dedication is 1865. Respect and Integrity is represented by the five point star of this historic Ranger badge and the Rangers themselves.  Over 500 names are listed on the Ring of Honor to preserve their legacy for all time.

Ring of Honor