Waco, TX. Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk. Cameron Park Zoo. Sports Hall of Fame. Crafts Village. Mayborn Museum. Wetlands. Mammoth Site. Texas Ranger Museum. Gunfighting. NY World's Fair. First Land Rover.

 

For “Travel Tuesday” let’s visit Waco, TX, which is in the Texas Prairies and Lakes Region of TX.

“The Texas Prairies and Lakes Region offers a wide variety of destinations & attractions, from the fast-paced cosmopolitan excitement of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex with the best in shopping, dining & entertainment, to the beautiful lakes & laid-back country lifestyles found throughout the region. Discover the Excitement of the Texas Prairies & Lakes.”

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“Welcome to Waco - the home of Texas hospitality. Located on I-35 between Dallas and Austin, Waco is famous for its taste of Texas history and hospitality. Waco's wide variety of museums and attractions offer a unique, relaxing getaway from the big city hustle and bustle.”

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SUSPENSION BRIDGE

Waco Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk

“Built in 1870 as a model for the Brooklyn Bridge, this famous Waco landmark provided cattle and cowboys following the Chisholm Trail the only span across the Brazos River.

Waco’s Historic Suspension Bridge was the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi when it was completed in 1870. The bridge was originally built for cattle drives crossing the Chisholm Trail while today it stands as an icon of Waco history. Located in the center of downtown Waco, the surrounding parks are where many community festivals and free events take place including the 4th on the Brazos celebration and Brazos Nights concerts in the summer.

The bridge is flanked by two great Waco parks — Indian Spring Park on the west side, and Martin Luther King, Jr. park on the east side.  Enjoy free summer concerts in Indian Spring Park.  Indian Spring Park was named after the natural waters that drew the Waco Indians to establish their village. The Wacos were drawn to to the shallow limestone crossing at the Brazos and the shelter of the chalk outcroppings that characterize the cliffs of Cameron Park.

The Riverwalk trail on the west side of the river extends from Baylor University, past the Historic Suspension Bridge and continues to McLennan Community College via Cameron Park. The trail within Cameron Park is soft surfaced while the rest of the trail is concrete and ADA accessible. The Riverwalk crosses over Herring Avenue in Cameron Park and loops back along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to Franklin Avenue. The Riverwalk on the east bank of the river allows visitors to either walk or jog while taking in the beautiful scenery.  Stroll the Riverwalk all year long! IH-35 exit 335B, University Parks Dr. and Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive between Franklin and Washington Avenues.”

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DR PEPPER MUSEUM AND FREE ENTERPRISE INSTITUTE

“The 1906 "Home of Dr Pepper" with exhibits, memorabilia and a working turn-of-the-century soda fountain featuring floats and shakes. Mon.-Sat. 10am-4:15pm, Sun. noon-4:15pm. Extended hours during peak months. Last ticket sold at 4:15 pm. Adults $7, Seniors $5, Students $4. 300 S. 5th St., IH-35 Exit 335A, (254) 757-1025; www.drpeppermuseum.com.”

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TEXAS SPORTS HALL OF FAME

“Learn about the Texas athletes who have distinguished themselves both on & off the field and arenas.  Without a doubt, Texans are passionate about their sports and sports heroes! From little leaguers with big dreams to the veterans of Friday night football games, this interactive museum has something for everyone. The Tom Landry Theater shows great football plays from the past as well as the near-present. Portions of the Hall of Fame are dedicated to tennis, basketball and football with a special Southwest Conference Gallery. Come see the best of Texas sports and relive the exciting white-knuckled moments again.

Open Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. noon-5pm. Adults $7, Seniors $6, Students $3, , Free for children 5 and under. Group rates available. 1108 S. University Parks Dr., IH-35 Exit 335B, (254) 756-1633, www.tshof.org.

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CAMERON PARK

“The Cameron Park trail system offers miles of twisting, multi-use trails in beautiful Cameron Park. The trail takes you through the 100-foot bluffs that overlook the Brazos and Bosque Rivers. If you prefer a slower pace, you can stroll along the River Trail and the bamboo filled California 56. The trail also features handcrafted bridges, varying terrain and breathtaking views, allowing for countless outdoor adventures for people of all ages.  416 acres of woods, walking and biking trails, scenic riverside picnic areas, Miss Nellie's Pretty Place (wild flower preserve) and a children's playground for the physically challenged. One of the biggest and best municipal parks in the nation, Cameron Park’s history and lore date back to the Huaco Indians who lived and hunted on its cliffs and shores. Today, it is a gathering place for locals and tourists who seek both adventure and solitude.”

Open 6 am - midnight. Free admission, tours available. University Parks Dr. adjacent to Brazos River, IH-35 exit 335B, (254) 750-8080.”

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CAMERON PARK ZOO

“Take a walk on the wild side and visit Waco’s award-winning zoo. Located on 52 acres adjacent to the Brazos River, Cameron Park Zoo showcases lush grasses and natural shelters which provide an at-home feel for species from around the globe. Visitors will be able to see over 1,700 animals representing 300 species living as they would in their natural habitat.
Within the zoo, you will see tortoises from the Galapagos Islands and birds from Africa. Laugh at the gibbons as they play together on their own island of fun or watch the lion cubs as they eat, drink and play in their kingdom.
Inside the Asian Forest exhibit, you will be given an up close and personal experience with the mighty Sumatran tigers, as well as the critically endangered orangutans and Komodo dragon.
The popular “Brazos River Country” exhibit will take you on a Texas-size journey – beginning from the Gulf of Mexico to the Caprock region of West Texas. While on your excursion
discover the variety of wildlife, culture, and history along the
Brazos River’s 840-mile passage through Texas.
In the summer there are splash pads, shaded walkways and misters. No matter which season, this is one great destination with Sumatran tigers, lions, herpetarium, tiny Dik-Dik Antelopes, the Brazos River Country Exhibit, the new Asian Forest expansion and much more.

Mon.-Sat. 9 am-5 pm, Sun. 11 am-5 pm. Adults $9, Seniors $8, Children (4-12) $6. Free for children 3 and under, fully accessible to the physically challenged. (254) 750-8400, www.cameronparkzoo.com "

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BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

“ Chartered in 1845 under the Republic of Texas, Baylor is the largest Baptist university in the world.  From humble beginnings in Independence, Texas, more than 150 years ago, Baylor University has grown to become one of the premier universities in the world, dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and guided by our Christian heritage. Independence was just the beginning of Baylor's journey, and many students, alumni, leaders and friends have left their unmistakable marks on this great institution as it is always expanding its horizons and meeting the new challenges of every generation to light the ways of time.

1301 S. University Parks Dr.  For tours call (254) 710-2407 or 800-BAYLORU. www.baylor.edu "

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ARMSTRONG BROWNING LIBRARY

“ World's largest collection of materials relating to Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, housed in an imposing library with 62 stained glass windows depicting the poetry of the Brownings. Also an extensive Wedgwood china collection on display. Open weekdays 9 am - 5 pm, Saturday 10am - 2pm. Admission free. Group tours available by appointment. 710 Speight, (254) 710-3566. www.browninglibrary.org.”

 

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THE MAYBORN MUSEUM COMPLEX

“The Mayborn Museum Complex contains various exhibits including The Crossroads of Texas Natural History, the Gov. Bill and Vara Daniel Historic Village containing wood frame buildings from the 19th century, sixteen themed Discovery Rooms that provide visitors with hands-on, interactive learning activities, and the Baylor Exhibit featuring the history of the university from 1845 to present.

This museum complex is designed to engage the entire family and encourage a unique museum experience. From the 17 hands-on discovery rooms in the Jeanes Discovery Center for children to the walk-in dioramas in the Natural Science and Cultural History Museum and the nine wood framed buildings at the Gov. Bill and Vara Daniel Historic Village, there are hours of interesting and fun things to experience. The whole family will enjoy exploration stations showcasing geology, paleontology, archeology and natural history. In the summer, some of the best and brightest traveling exhibits in the country come to the Mayborn. We invite you to engage, explore and enjoy!

Mon. - Wed., Fri. and Sat. 10 am - 5 pm, Thur. 10 am - 8 pm, Sun. 1 pm - 5 pm. Adults $6, Seniors (65 and older) $5, Children (18 months - 12 years) $4. 300 S. University-Parks, Waco, TX 76706, (254) 710-1110. www.maybornmuseum.com "

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LAKE WACO WETLANDS

“Lake Waco allows visitors to go boating, jet skiing, water skiing, and swimming. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated lake also has an area for fishing and birding, as well as biking and walking trails.”  LAKE WACO  254-756-5359  www.corpslakes.us/waco

“The Lake Waco Wetlands is a 180-acre wetland, located at the upper end of Lake Waco along the North Bosque River. It provides habitat to numerous aquatic plants, insects, reptiles, mammals, amphibians as well as many migratory birds. Some of the most popular features to the wetlands are the nursery area and bird watching.  To date, the local Audubon Society has documented over 130 different species of birds.” 

Hours: 8am-4pm Monday - Friday, 8am-Noon alternating Saturdays. Closed on Saturdays that feature special events. 1752 Eichelberger Crossing Rd., (254) 848-9654,  www.lakewacowetlands.com "

 

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HOMESTEAD HERITAGE TRADITIONAL CRAFTS VILLAGE

“Enjoy an afternoon at Homestead Heritage
Traditional Crafts Village. This 510-acre Christian
agricultural settlement, located a few miles outside
Waco, allows visitors to enjoy a simple change of pace
and an agrarian atmosphere. Inside the 200-year old restored barn is a showcase of the work of the village’s craftspeople and includes pottery, quilts, beeswax candles, natural soaps, and needlework. Enjoy lunch at Cafe Homestead, one of the only locally sourced, organic restaurants in the Heart of Texas– and be sure to leave room for dessert!”   608 Dry Creek Rd.  254-754-9600
www.homesteadheritage.com  Monday –Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM

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WACO MAMMOTH SITE

“Hailed as “the nation’s first and only recorded discovery of a nursery herd of Pleistocene mammoths,” the Waco Mammoth Site is one of the most unique destinations in Texas. Every year, thousands of visitors experience the history of these mighty creatures at the dig shelter that is located among 100 acres of wooded parkland. Excavation began when the site was discovered in 1978 and to date the remains of 24 mammoths, a camel, the tooth of a juvenile saber-tooth cat as well as unidentified animals have been found. This is an experience your family won’t soon forget.”

6220 Steinbeck Bend Rd.  254-750-7946  www.wacomammoth.com
Tuesday – Friday 11 AM – 5 PM, Saturday 9 AM – 5 PM
$7 adults, $6 seniors, $6 veterans, $6 students age 13-18 or with valid college ID, $5 children (4-12), 3 and under free

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TEXAS RANGER HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

“Learn about the Texas Rangers and their role in the settlement of Texas. The museum includes an extensive collection of weapons and a replica of an 1837 Texas Ranger fort, plus a James Michener exhibit about the writing of his book about Texas.

One of the most popular attractions in the state, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum is the official State Hall of Fame for the Texas Rangers. History buffs, gun collectors and those enchanted by the Wild West and Ranger lore will love it here. Dating back to Spanish and Mexican origins, the museum’s 12,000 irreplaceable artifacts include badges, firearms, tack and personal gear. On display as well are weapons and possessions of notorious outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. The Hall of Fame is dedicated to the 30 brave Texas Rangers who gave their lives in the line of duty and others who served with great distinction.
The Tobin and Anne Armstrong Texas Ranger Research Center is the official library of the Texas Rangers. It contains artifacts and materials related to Texas and the American West, law enforcement, Southern Plains Indian history, and firearms history and technology. Visitors can research genealogies as well as historical accounts of life as a Texas Ranger.

Baby Boomer visitors will enjoy the Lone Ranger (and Tonto) collection. See Western art and Native American artifacts. Enjoy a picnic at Fort Fisher Park on the Brazos River.”

100 Texas Ranger Trail. 254-750-8631  877-750-8631
www.texasranger.org  Monday – Sunday 9 AM – 5 PM, last guest admitted at 4:30 PM  $7 adults, $6 seniors adults and military, $3 children 6-12, 5 and under free  Group and school rates are available.

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Rangers have rules about gun fighting:

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There are many Historic Homes. For more information call the Historic Waco Foundation, (254) 753-5166.

There is so much more to know about Waco, TX: http://wacohistoryproject.org/DidYouKnow.htm

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On This Day:

New York World's Fair opens, Apr 30, 1939:

“On April 30, 1939, the New York World's Fair opens in New York City. The opening ceremony, which featured speeches by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and New York Governor Herbert Lehman, ushered in the first day of television broadcasting in New York.

Spanning 1,200 acres at Flushing Meadow Park in Queens, the fairground was marked by two imposing structures--the "Perisphere" and the "Trylon"--and exhibited such new technology as FM radio, robotics, fluorescent lighting, and a crude fax machine. Norman Bel Geddes designed a Futurama ride for General Motors, and users were transported through an idealized city of the future. Sixty-three nations participated in the fair, which enjoyed large crowds before the outbreak of World War II interrupted many of its scheduled events.”

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Original Land Rover debuts at auto show, Apr 30, 1948:

“The Land Rover, a British-made all-terrain vehicle that will earn a reputation for its use in exotic locales, debuts at an auto show in Amsterdam on April 30, 1948.

The first Land Rover, known as the Series 1, was the brainchild of Maurice Wilks, the head designer for the British car company Rover, of which his brother Spencer Wilks was the managing director. Maurice Wilks used an old American-made Willys-Overland Jeep to do work at his farm in England. However, the Jeep was plagued by mechanical problems and Wilks decided to design a more reliable vehicle. He intended it to be used for farm work and be more versatile than a tractor. The resulting Land Rover, known as the Series 1, had a boxy, utilitarian design, four-wheel drive and a canvas roof. Such features as passenger seat cushions, doors, a heater and spare tires were initially considered extras and cost more. The rugged Land Rover was well-received by the public and ended up being used not just for agricultural work, but by police forces, military organizations, aid workers in remote places and travelers on expeditions where road conditions were poor or non-existent. In 1976, the 1 millionth Land Rover rolled off the assembly line in Solihull, Birmingham, England.

In 1970, the Range Rover, a more comfortable, luxurious version of the Land Rover, launched. The Discovery, a less expensive version of the Range Rover made its public debut in 1989; it was marketed to a younger, less conservative audience than Range Rover buyers. By that time, the company had experienced ownership changes: In 1967, Rover became part of Leyland Motors (later called British Leyland). British Aerospace later acquired Land Rover. In 1994, BMW acquired the Land Rover business. Next, in 2000, the Ford Motor Company purchased Land Rover for $2.7 billion. In 2008, Ford, which was experiencing a sales slump due to the worldwide economic crisis, sold Land Rover, along with another British-based brand, Jaguar, to Tata Motors of India for some $2.3 billion.”

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Yesterday:

Ray came over and clipped the hedge that borders the road in my back yard.  Then he helped Jay and me with the roof over my front porch. 

Because we couldn’t cantilever the roof extension like we wanted to, we put the tall post back in the fence that goes to the back yard, as it will help hold everything up. This was one of the posts from the original RVport.  Now it is attached to the house.

It wasn’t hot or cold and a lovely day.

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