Blanco, Texas

Marble Falls, Texas

Weather: low 33 degrees, high 63 degrees, clear skies, wind 10 mph

When we left the RV for our daily outing, we decided we would find a place to eat lunch in the Blanco area. After looking and mulling over the choices, we decided (drum roll, please) to stop at...... Dairy Queen!!! Once lunch was finished, and it was tasty, by the way, we drove a few blocks to one of the nicest little state parks we have seen.

The Blanco State Park is inside the Blanco city limits, situated along about one mile of the Blanco River. The size of the park is such that it has an intimate feel, yet still provides all the amenities, including some nice RV camping sites. On top of that, the river is nice, and it is stocked with trout every winter.

Blanco means "white" in Spanish, and the name is taken from the limestone hills and banks of the river. The surrounding area is well suited for growing lavender, and a three day lavender festival is held every June. There are several crafts shops and antique stores. The Devil's Backbone, a prominent geological feature, is located nearby. A nice town to visit.



When we left the state park, we went back into town and parked on the old courthouse square. This building was constructed in 1885 and served as the Blanco County Court House for about four years. At that time, the county seat was moved to Johnson City, where a new courthouse was built. The old courthouse was then used for several different functions over the years, including as a hospital, where more than 1000 babies were born. At this time, the building is being used as a visitor's center.









On our way back to the RV, we stopped in Johnson City to check out some items of interest. The first place we stopped was the boyhood home of Lyndon B. Johnson, which is where he and his family lived after they left the family ranch when he was five years old. Remember what I wrote about LBJ coming from humble beginnings?








Driving a few blocks north, we found the Blanco County Courthouse, which replaced the old courthouse that was located in Blanco for a few years. Like many of the old courthouses in Texas, this one is a functioning courthouse, complete with court room. It was quiet here today, with few cars parked around the building. Most of the older Texas courthouses are usually placed in the center of town, with businesses placed around the square. This is the first old courthouse we have seen that was off the town center, and very few businesses are near.





With all the activities this week, we decided to cut the day short. We need to save some energy for the weekend.

More later, be safe.

Today's Town - Blanco, Texas: Lavender Capital Of Texas