Enjoy local history and wine

Temperatures are rising, bluebonnets are blooming, and family trips are in full swing. The Examiner is hi. Melting local attractions that are worth the visit and won’t take a toll on your fuel budget In the third article of the series, The Examiner visits Washington on the Brazos State Historic site and Grimes County wineries.

Washington on the Brazos

Located in historic Washington, Washington on the Brazos is 293 acres of history nestled along the Brazos Rivet

Washington on the Brazos is “Where Texas became Texas.” On March 29,1836, 59 delegates met at this peLise location to declare independence from Mexico. Visit the historic site, operated by Texas Historic Commission, and dive into the history of Texas.

Three main attractions are the two-story Star of the Republic Museum, Barrington Plantation and Independence Hall. Admission fees for the three attractions are $8 for adults and $5 for students over age five. Family rate is $20 for two adults and one child. Additional children are $1 each. Children five and under are fiee and active military and their families are free.

Star of the Republic Museum

The tour at the museum is an hour and begins with a 30-minute introductory movie of Independence: A Lone Star Rises. Once the movie is over the rest of your time may be spent viewing the exhibits on thefirst and second floor on your own. A staff member will be at thefivnt desk to answer any questions you may have.

Barrington Plantation

The farm is also an hour long self-guided tour. Your group may visit Anson Jones ‘home, the outdoor kitchen, two slave cabins, the barn where the oxen are kept, and the hog pen. The farm staff will be dressed in clothing from the period and will tell you all about living on alarm in the 1850s. The farm is outside and quite a bit of walking is required

Independence Hall

Independence Hall is a replica of the building where the Texas Declaration ofIndependence was signed A tour guide will take you inside the building where you will have a 30-45-minute tour to learn about the historic signfficance of the hall.

Visit www.wheretexasbecametexas.org for more information.

Local Wmeries

When you feel the need for relaxation, Grimes County is home to numerous local wineries. Each offer their own unique touch. Whether you want a family friendly winery with activities for the entire family ora romantic getaway, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for at one of these local wineries.

Wmeries include:

• Bernhardt Winery, 9043, CR 204 Navasota;

• Patout’s Wme Shop, 213 E. Washington Ave., Navasota;

• Saddlehom Winery, 958 Farm-to-Market Road 1948, Navasota;

• Threshold Vineyards, 14615 CR 318, Navasota;

• WildFlyer Mead Company, 16481 CR 319 Navasota;

• Deep Roots Vmeyards, 19318 FM 1774, Plantersvine;

• West Sandy Creek Wmery, 1773 FM 1791, Richards;

• Texas Star Winery, 29311 FM 149 Richards;

The Examiner will release a series of articles highlighting local attractions each week If you would like your attraction considered for publication, email matthew.ybarra@navasotaexaminer.com or call 936-825-6484.