2017 VISITORS & NEWCOMERS GUIDE - townnews.com
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2017 VISITORS & NEWCOMERS GUIDE
2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide WELCOME
Welcome to Wharton! Table of
Table of Contents
Contents
You’re very special. We Calendar of Events ................................................ .... 4
love having you here, and Chamber of Commerce Business Directory ............ 36
Wharton wants to make you County, city, school information .............................. 34
feel welcome. Doc Blakely & the Java Jam Band.......................... 10
Whether you’re spending Foote, Horton........................................................... 33
a few hours, a few days Historic Homes of Wharton .................................... 28
or a lifetime, Wharton is Map of Downtown Wharton .............................. 24-25
excited you’re here. We are Monterey Square Wine & Arts Fair .......................... 9
a community-oriented town Museums................................................................. 18
where no one is a stranger. Plaza Theatre........................................................... 14
It’s a great place in which to Rather, Dan.............................................................. 32
live, work, visit, learn and do Tee Pee Motel ......................................................... 13
business. Texas Gulf Coast Antique & Junkin’ Trail ............... 12
We’re known far and wide Utility information ................................................... 17
for our famous barbecue, for Weekend in Wharton .............................................. 20
our native sons like Horton Welcome column by Billie Jones.............................. 6
Foote and Dan Rather, for the
Wharton County Junior College.............................. 26
thousands who have attended
Wharton Civic Center .............................................. 22
our Wharton County Junior
Wharton County Courthouse................................... 19
College, and for our regionally
Wharton County Freedom Fest ................................. 7
renowned medical facilities.
We’ve restored our courthouse Wharton County Juneteenth Festival ....................... 8
and charming Monterey Wharton parks...........................................................16
Square, our downtown. WHERE WE ARE: Wharton is 46 miles from the Gulf of
You’ll be delighted by Mexico, 58 miles from Houston, 135 miles from Austin
what you ind in our shops, and 167 miles from San Antonio.
restaurants, museums and
attractions. If you’ve never
been here before, let us show
you around. Our little guide
will help you. We feel sure the
people you meet will make you
Austin
feel right at home.
Houston
Ron Sanders
Executive Director Wharton
Texas
Wharton Chamber of San Antonio
Commerce & Agriculture
x ico
f Me
l fo
Gu
2 Chamber of Commerce | whartontexas.com
2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide EVENTS 2017 calendar of events • Jan. 13: Wharton Chamber of & Arts Fair, downtown Wharton Commerce & Agriculture Lunch • Oct. 28: Wharton Chamber and Learn, Wharton Civic Center Golf Tournament, Wharton Country • Jan. 14: MLK Freedom March, Club Monterey Square to Just Do it Now • Nov. 21: Wharton Chamber of • Jan. 21-22: Wharton County Commerce Holiday Parade, down- Bridal Expo, Wharton Civic Center town Wharton • Jan. 25: Pilot Club Chili Sup- • Nov. 23: Wharton Feast of Shar- per, KC Hall ing, Holy Family Catholic Church’s • Feb. 11: East Wharton County Family Life Center Crime Stoppers Dinner and Dance, • Nov. 25: Small Business Satur- Wharton KC Hall day • Feb. 14: Wharton County Busi- ness Expo/Job Fair, El Campo Civic Other regular events: Center • Coffee With Your Cops, Milam • March 2: Lions Club Annual Street Coffee Shop (7:30 to 9 a.m. Pancake Supper, Wharton Civic every First Wednesday) Center • Java Jam, Milam Street Coffee • March 3-4: Knights of Colum- Shop (live music, normally fourth bus Annual Cookoff, KC Hall Friday of each month) • March 4: Gourmet Guys, Whar- • Wharton County SPOT pet ton County Historical Museum adoptions at WCJC front parking • March 9: Wharton Chamber of lot (normally second Saturday of Commerce Banquet, Wharton Civic each month) Center • Plaza Theatre productions • TBA: 100 Club Cookoff, Cres- (shows scheduled throughout the cent Fairgrounds year) • April 7-8: Wharton County • Wharton County Junior Col- Youth Fair BBQ Cookoff lege Visual and Performing Arts • April 22-29: Wharton County Dept. (several theater productions, Youth Fair band and choir concerts throughout • May 19-20: Wharton County the year) Freedom Fest, downtown Wharton • Wharton County Farmers Mar- • June 3: Eighth Annual City- ket at WCJC front parking lot (Sat- wide Garage Sale urday mornings, late spring-early • June 10: 27th Annual Kolache- summer and late fall, dates TBA) Klobase Festival, East Bernard • Kapeesh Marketing meetup • June 16: Chamber Ambassa- first Wed. of the month. Call Amy dors Casino Night, Wharton Civic Morales for mor Center • June 17: Juneteenth Celebra- Note: All dates and events are tion, downtown Wharton subject to change. Other events are • August, TBA: Wharton County also planned that were not set or Football Coaches Luncheon confirmed at the time of publication. • Sept. 30: Rotary Club Gala, To keep up with the latest listing, see Wharton Civic Center the calendar on whartontexas.com. • Oct. 14: Monterey Square Wine 4 Welcome | whartontexas.com
WELCOME 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
The Wharton County Courthouse on Monterey Square
Visitors & Newcomers Guide 2017
Contributors
Wharton Chamber of Commerce Wharton Chamber of Commerce
& Agriculture & Agriculture
Ron Sanders 225 N. Richmond Road
Wharton, TX 77488
Kim Peikert • Makyla Monroe
Phone: 979-532-1862
Wharton Journal-Spectator Fax: 979-532-0102
Bill Wallace • Keith Magee Email: admin@whartonchamber.com
Evelyn Carriere • Ava Bridges • Helen Halvorson whartonchamber.com
Rachel Cavazos • Jeannie Boone
Wharton Journal-Spectator
Wharton Visitors & Newcomers Guide is an
111 W. Burleson St.
annual publication of the Wharton Chamber
Wharton, TX 77488
of Commerce & Agriculture produced in
Phone: 979-532-8840
conjunction with the Wharton Journal-
Fax: 979-532-8845
Spectator. The guide includes information
Email: news@journal-spectator.com
on what to see and do in Wharton, Texas,
journal-spectator.com
along with a map, calendar of events and a
business directory of Wharton Chamber of For information about advertising in next
Commerce members. year’s edition, contact the Wharton Journal-
For additional information, contact the- Spectator at 979-532-8840.
Chamber at 979-532-1862.
whartontexas.com | Welcome 5
2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide WELCOME
The heart and spirit of Wharton
By BILLIE JONES wide as we love small
town Texas living.
Wharton is spirit. Like the wind, it can- The Wharton
not be seen but there is a refreshing spirit spirit has extended to
blowing for all. the international mar-
Visitors and newcomers are welcome, ketplace. We are home
we love an opportunity to share small town to Taiwan’s Nan Ya
life with you. Plastics and JM Eagle
I recently asked my daughter, who Pipe, Dorian Tool and
grew up here, to give me one word describ- Lamberti of Italy and
ing her hometown. She immediately numerous large inter-
said “heart.” It is with a warm spirit and national and longtime
friendly heart, we invite you to be part of family ranches.
this community. Located less than an hour from a
The heart of an early community was famed medical center and large shopping
the county courthouse. Today we share malls, Wharton is the destination for safe
the beautifully restored Wharton County neighbors, fine schools, Wharton County
Courthouse sitting in the middle of historic Junior College, medical care and a smile as
Monterey Square. Stroll the streets and we pass on the streets.
enjoy shops, antiques, churches, restau- Yes, the spirit of Wharton is like the
rants or a short rest at the Milam Street wind. It’s difficult to explain but come, we
Coffee Shop. Yes, if it happens to be on a will enjoy the warm heart together.
certain Friday night, you just might find
toe-tapping music. Billie Jones is a longtime Wharton
Don’t miss the Plaza Theatre where resident who is one of our city’s unofficial
live performances are presented through ambassadors. She is a former execu-
the year. The Footliters, named for native tive director of the Wharton Chamber of
son, Horton Foote, present a large variety Commerce & Agriculture, and she writes
of Broadway shows, mostly musicals which a weekly column in the Wharton Journal-
are fantastic. Yes, we have been host to Spectator on items of interest about the
world renowned Houston Grand Opera. Wharton community. She can be reached
Yes, the Wharton spirit reaches far and at bhjones6@sbcglobal.net.
New Construction
Repairs
Water Heater Sales
Service
Installation
216 N. Richmond Rd.
Wharton, TX 77488
Residential • Commercial • Industrial (979) 532-0223
A Full Service Plumbing Company Since 1968
www.RathPlumbingWharton.com A. J. Rath, owner LIC.# M-5188
6 Welcome | whartontexas.com
EVENTS 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
Wharton County Freedom Fest
The open car show is always one of the popular events at the Freedom Fest.
The patriotic party on the square an outdoor dining area, hands-free
will host its annual festival with trib- hand washing stations, not to mention
utes to veterans and first responders. restroom trailers with air-conditioning.
The festival is located on Monterey Fulton Street hosts an area just for
Square in downtown Wharton, this kids with games and fun things to do.
festival also hosts a day for family fun. Just a block from the action, the
Originally planned for the Fourth Open Car Show at Guffey Park, with
of July, three years ago committee Von-Wil Ford sponsoring features nu-
members decided to move the event to merous categories and gives awards
May since it’s a cooler time of the year to the most impressive cars, trucks,
and precedes Memorial Day weekend. motorcycles or practically anything on
Because of its widespread popularity, wheels.
the 2017 festival will be celebrated all The focal point of the festival — the
weekend. Veterans’ Salute — commences as
The barbecue cook-off is set for Fri- veterans march into the square and
day, May 19 and the festival for Satur- gather at the monument for a brief cer-
day, May 20. emony.
The weekend event, sponsored by Though Freedom Fest promises
H-E-B, is held on Monterey Square in fun, it’s a celebration for another great
downtown Wharton and features doz- cause.
ens of craft and food vendors, the time- Every year, proceeds from Freedom
less car show, live music, a bocce ball Fest go to charitable organizations
tournament, the return of the patriotic such as the Disabled American Vet-
pet parade put on by Wharton County erans Van Club in El Campo, a free
Stray Pet Outreach Team (SPOT), the transportation service for area veter-
celebrated barbecue cookoff and, if you ans.
are willing to get your hands dirty, lots
of boiled crawfish hosted by H-E-B. For updated information, visit
The festival will be equipped with whartonfreedomfest.org.
whartontexas.com | Events 7
2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide EVENTS
Wharton County Juneteenth Festival
Lady Audrey, right, performs in 2016 while a woman, left, dances to the music.
The James Simmons Jr. Wharton ton County Juneteeth Festival will be
County Juneteeth Festival became the place to be on Saturday, June 17 on
the largest festival in Wharton County Monterey Square in downtown Whar-
when it was born seven years ago. ton.
The festival attracted an estimated A parade kicks off the event at 10
15,000 people three years ago. Last a.m. sponsored by the Wharton Train-
year’s event was estimated at around ing School Alumni. The parade goes
8,000. Festival-goers keep wondering from downtown Wharton to the Dawson
how the event will be topped each year. Community Resource Center, where a
With the drive of Paul Kearney and program is held.
the support of James Simmons Jr., the The festival runs until midnight. Ad-
event is coordinated by Kearney and mission is free.
supported by Simmons’ Total Premier The festival features plenty of ac-
Service and J. Simmons Group Inc. tivities for children, including carnival
The event was the reconnecting of rides. And as always, there is plenty of
lifelong friends for the revival obser- live music, as well as a Hometown He-
vances, celebrating June 19, 1865 when roes Program that honors local citizens
the former slaves of Texas found they for their accomplishments. The musi-
had been declared free through Presi- cians will be announced in 2017 prior to
dent Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation the event.
Proclamation signed on Jan. 1, 1863.
Celebrated in Texas on or near June For more information about the Ju-
19, each year afterward, the celebration neteenth Festival, call 979-532-1468.
began to wane in the 1950s here.
Now the James Simmons Jr. Whar-
8 whartontexas.com
EVENTS 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
Monterey Square Wine & Arts Fair
Dave Halston performed “The Magic of Sinatra” at the 2016 Wine and Arts Fair.
One of Wharton’s popular events of paintings and sketches.
provides culture and is on every corner The art doesn’t just sit on an easel,
of downtown Wharton at the Monterey though — it drives down the streets.
Square Wine and Arts Fair, held each Members of the ARTX of Houston
year on the second Saturday of October. set up their unusual vehicles on Ful-
The event is a fantastic night to sip, ton Street, near the Wharton County
shop and stroll. The 2017 event — the District Court Building. Cars have
ninth annual — is set for Saturday, included one with a fighter jet on the
Oct. 14 in downtown Wharton. roof and one decorated with hundreds
Begun in 2009, the event is spon- of glass bottles.
sored by the Wharton Chamber of No festival is complete without mu-
Commerce & Agriculture and the Mon- sic, and there’s a full venue to check
terey Square Merchants Committee out at the fair. Musicians set up shop
and is a wonderful way to highlight in front of several businesses, playing
stores while offering some unique op- acoustic favorites, while the local favor-
portunities to the public. ite, the Java Jam Band, takes its famil-
Each year, different Texas wineries iar stage inside Milam Street Coffee.
provide the samples, in both whites and Last year’s event also included a
reds. Wine is also for sale by the glass popular food court with food trucks set
or bottle. Participating merchants offer up in the Wharton Journal-Spectator
the various vintages to sample. parking lot.
In addition, there is craft beer sam- Anyone wishing to participate in
pling and boutique sodas. the wine sampling must pay a minimal
Art is another feature of the festi- admission fee.
val. Local artists display their work in
several sites, with the Painted Poodle For more information, visit mon-
Art Studio, usually exhibiting dozens tereysquarewinefair.com.
whartontexas.com | Events 9
2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide EVENTS
Doc Blakely & the Java Jam Band
One of Wharton’s
most unique enter-
tainment events, the
Java Jam has been
growing in popularity
since the first show in
September 2010.
Headed up by pop-
ular Wharton musi-
cian and professional
speaker, Doc Blakely,
and the Java Jam
Band, the monthly
show also features
a guest artist, along
with food and drinks
at the Milam Street
Coffee Shop on Mon-
terey Square in down-
town Wharton.
Each month, the
guest performers will
play the first set at
6 p.m., and after a Photo courtesy of Sharon Joines
break at 7 p.m. for the From left, Elena Silva, John Pursel, Mickey Reynolds,
buffet, the guest art- Ron Sanders, Jeanie Gunter, LeRoy Jackson, Doc Blake-
ists will join the Java ly, Rick Quijas and Mary Northington.
Jam Band at 8 p.m.
to help pay for the guest musicians.
for an hour-long jam session.
Java Jam is normally held on the
Members of the Java Jam Band are
fourth Friday of each month, but some-
as varied as their talents.
times the date may vary.
They include: Doc Blakely, fiddle, pro-
Acts lined up so far for 2017 are:
fessional speaker; Ron Sanders, drums,
• Friday, Jan. 27: A special program,
executive director, Wharton Chamber of
“Music and Humor of the Civil War” in-
Commerce; Rick Quijas, bass guitar, a
terpreted by Doc Blakely, musician/hu-
state employee; Mickey Reynolds, guitar/
morist.
vocals, pastor of Caney Creek Church;
• Friday, Feb. 24: Johnny Flores, gui-
John Pursel, guitar, music instructor;
tarist/singer from Needville.
and Jeanie Gunter, piano, Mary Kay
• Friday, March 24: Luckenbach fid-
consultant.
dler Wes Holsford and Donny Price, “The
Several other local musicians sit in
Lords of Luckenbach.”
with the band whenever the spirit moves
See milamstcoffee.com for current
them.
performers, details and directions.
The band also has a designated danc-
er, C. Paul Smith. Performance schedules are subject to
Those who attend the events are change. To verify dates prior to perfor-
asked to bring a covered dish to share for mances, call Milam Street Coffee at 979-
the buffet, along with a $15 cover charge 282-9771 or visit milamstcoffee.com.
10 Events | whartontexas.comWHARTON, TEXAS
LOOK US UP ON
Antiques Drinks
Gifts Dessert
Live Theatre Cofee
Dining Clothing
Events Venue And much more!
All at Monterey Square, historic
downtown Wharton, Texas!
Don’t forget to mark your calendar:
October 14th, 2017
Wine and Arts Fair
whartontexas.com
979-532-1862 11
helpdesk@whartonchamber.com2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide COMMUNITY
Gulf Coast Antique & Junkin’ Trail
As part of the Texas Gulf Coast Antique
and Junkin’ Trail, Wharton is home to some
of the best antique shopping. Antiquing has
become quite the trend today, and people
from all over the area travel to Wharton
to visit its antique shops, thrift stores and
wholesale stores. Whether you’re on your
next treasure hunt to find a one of a kind
item, searching for a piece of history to bring
you closer to your past or if you’re an avid
collector, the Wharton County trail is one to
follow.
There are also some great stops along
the way that are perfect for your next do-it-
yourself project.
Here are the ones in Wharton County:
• Bohemian Rhapsody II
134 W. Milam St., Wharton, 832-434-
8374. Email: Boh_rhap2@att.net Over 32
vendors! Everything from rustic, metal dé-
cor, painted furniture to chalk paints and
knobs for you next project. Vintage & up-
A customer checks out one of
cycled! Candles, jewelry and more. Open 10
a.m.– 5:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1–5 p.m. Sun.
the antique stores in downtown
•Milam Emporium Wharton.
238 W. Milam St. 979-531-3103 ers who rent space to sell their merchandise
Email: dougsmolik@gmail.com and consignments. On Facebook as “The
Antiques, Jewelry, Clothes, Home Decor Glen Flora Emporium.” Open 10 a.m. 5:30
and more. Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. p.m. Wed.-Sat., noon –5 p.m. Sun.
• JT’s This & That • Burr Trading Company
232 W. Milam St., Wharton, 979-532- 411 CR 123, Wharton, 979-453-0860.
0977. Website: thegalleryinwharton@gmail.
Vintage salt/pepper shakers, doors and com. Buying, selling and repurposing old
windows, furniture, nik-naks and more! things. We are in Wharton’s Bohemian
Open 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Tues.-Sat., by chance Rhapsody II, the Glen Flora Emporium, Bar
on Mon. W Field and Warrenton. Personal picks by
• Montgomery Gallery and Frame appointment! Find us on Facebook as Burr
110 S. Houston St., Wharton, 979-532- Trading Co.
3929. • Junk & Stuff
Website: Montgomerygalleryandframe. 709 Main St., East Bernard, 281-450-
net. 6219.
Email: mogie@sbcglobal.net. Vintage Email: jamesdcollector@aol.com. The
look, ready made, and custom made frames. store is mostly antiques and collectibles.
Oil paintings restoration. Photo restora- Neons, beer signs, old truck doors, tailgates.
tion. Frame restoration. Open 9 a.m.–6 p.m. One stop man cave store! Open Saturdays
Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.– 3 p.m. Sat., closed on Sun. or by appointment.
• Glen Flora Emporium
103 S. Bridge Ave. Glen Flora, 979-677- Visit whartontexas.com for more infor-
3249. mation and trail locations in West Columbia
Email: emporium@glenflora.com. Deal- in nearby Brazoria County.
12 Events | whartontexas.comCOMMUNITY 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
The Tee Pee Motel
The Tee Pee Motel, located on Business 59/Texas 60, is one of Wharton’s
unique landmarks.
One of Wharton’s most eye-catching
historic locations is not only designed to
be looked at, but also designed to be lived
in.
The unique landmark could be
missed by those who travel through town
on U.S. 59, but those who make the cutoff
on Business 59 as they are coming from
Houston will be sure to see the Tee Pee
Motel.
The motel is a throwback to the 1940s
and ’50s before interstate highways, The Tee Pee Motel offers half a doz-
when family car trips were an adventure en unique rooms, each decorated
and part of the appeal was visiting new
communities and finding a unique place in a different color and theme.
to stay. Among the more eye-catching of being able to “afford” to keep peace in the
those were motels where the units were family, he relented and took on the proj-
built not as square boxes but in the shape ect, purchasing the motel in 2004 and
of a Native American dwelling, the tee- reopening it on Oct. 30, 2006.
pee. Today, there is only one in Texas and Woods has been able to capitalize on
only four in the U.S. that investment. In addition to the na-
The motel rooms were originally de- tional attention the project has brought,
signed in 1942 by George and Toppie Woods installed about 50 recreational ve-
Belcher but construction was delayed hicle pads as well as a laundry area.
until 1947 because of World War II. “We’ve also had people call up and
Once a destination location for trav- book the rooms and grounds for fam-
elers, the motel began a slow slide as ily reunions,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of
the highway system routed traffic away space and people enjoy the added feature
from the Tee Pee’s location. It closed in of being able to stay in a unique location.”
the 1980s and remained that way until And while the location and original
it was purchased by Bryon Woods, who construction date back to the 1940s, the
refurbished and reopened the motel. rooms have been modernized and include
A lottery winner, Woods bought the a number of the amenities the modern
motel at the urging of his wife Barbara, guest would expect, including high speed
a Wharton County native. She said that Internet and cable television.
as a little girl, she’d always wanted to In 2015, a new firepit was added be-
stay in one of the rooms but never had hind the tee pees that includes seating
the opportunity. When Bryon pointed out for visitors.
it was closed, Barbara reportedly pointed In addition, three of the rooms have
out that it was for sale. been updated to include queen size beds.
“She told me she wanted to stay
there,” Woods said in an earlier inter- Call 979-282-8474 or visit teepeemotel.
view. He saw it as a bad investment but net.
whartontexas.com | Community 132017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide COMMUNITY
The Plaza Theatre
“Mary Poppins” was the popular summer musical performed in 2016 at the
Plaza Theatre.
The Plaza Theatre on Monterey Square for mature audiences due to mildly offensive
in downtown Wharton will begin the 2017 subject matter and language.
calendar year with “Noises Off,” a comedy. • “Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.”
It’s the second of five productions from the (June 29 to July 2): Every summer, basic
2016-17 season. stagecraft and theatre discipline is taught
The 2017-18 season, which will kick off to youngsters age 6 through 16 during the
in the fall, will be announced later this year. Litefooter Summer Youth Workshop, and it
Performances are normally at 7:30 p.m. Fri- cuminates with a youth production. Travel
days and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of lit-
Here’s synopses of the productions: erature’s most beloved heroines, in her mad-
• “Noises Off” (Feb. 17 to Feb. 26): cap adventures. Featuring updated songs
The opening night performance of the farce from Disney’s thrilling animated motion pic-
“Nothing On” is just hours away, and as the ture, “Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.” is a
cast stumbles through their final dress re- fast-paced take on the classic tale. The ever-
hearsal, things couldn’t be going any worse. curious Alice begins her journey innocently
With lines being forgotten, love triangles un- enough, chasing the White Rabbit. Her ad-
raveling and sardines flying everywhere, it’s ventures become curiouser and curiouser as
complete pandemonium ... and they haven’t she races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with
even reached intermission! Can the cast pull Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, raps with
their act together on the stage even if they a bubble-blowing Caterpillar and beats the
can’t behind the scenes? It is recommended Queen of Hearts at her own game! Perfor-
for mature audiences due to mildly offensive mance dates vary from the usual schedule
subject matter and language. and are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday
• “All My Sons” (April 28 to May 7): and 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
During the war, Joe Keller and Steve Deev- • “Footloose” (Aug. 4 to Aug. 20): One
er ran a machine shop that made airplane of the most explosive movie musicals in re-
parts, some of which were defective and cent memory bursts onto the live stage with
caused many deaths. Deever was sent to exhilarating results. When Ren and his
prison, but Keller went free and made a lot mother move from Chicago to a small farm-
of money. Deever’s younger son, George, re- ing town, Ren is prepared for the inevitable
ported lost in the war, returns to find his fa- adjustment period at his new high school.
ther in prison, his father’s partner free, and What he isn’t prepared for are the rigorous
his sister involved in a love affair with the local edicts, including a ban on dancing in-
partner’s son. An electrifying drama of al- stituted by the local preacher, determined
most unbearable power. It is recommended to exercise the control over the town’s youth
14 Community | whartontexas.comCOMMUNITY 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
that he cannot command in his own home. rhythm of its Oscar- and Tony-nominated
When the reverend’s rebellious daughter Top 40 score and augmented with dynamic
sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boy- new songs for the stage musical, Footloose
friend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, celebrates the wisdom of listening to young
with many of the locals eager to believe the people and guiding them with a warm heart
worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story and an open mind.
that emerges is of a father longing for the son
he lost and of a young man aching for the fa- For more information, call 979-282-2226
ther who walked out on him. To the rockin’ or visit whartonplazatheatre.org.
The Morris Carriage House
It’s only been a few generations since
horse-drawn carriages were in vogue and
traveled in and around the area.
While the use of carriages declined with
the advent of the automobile, memories of
their importance is kept alive by collectors.
A local family has devoted a lifetime to
collecting and restoring the transportation
of another century alive. The love of a more
gentle time and quiet means of transpor- Restored carriages are displayed in
tation is the passion of carriage collectors the Morris Ranch Carriage House.
Stewart Morris Sr. and his son Stewart
Morris Jr. also. Carriage horses are worked with and
Numerous carriages in their large col- groomed daily and all tack is hung with fit-
lection are gathered together in the Morris tings polished and leather oiled ready for
Carriage House just east of Wharton on use.
County Road 117. When being taken out for special occa-
Want to see the carriage that carried sions, the drivers and passengers often don
Vivien Leigh in the movie “Gone With the period costumes which go along with the
Wind?” How about the carriage known as years the vehicles were in use.
“The Traveling Government of Mexico?” It Interesting pieces in the collection in-
was used by then popular Mexican Presi- clude the carriage used by Vivien Leigh in
dent Benito Juarez. the movie “Gone With the Wind.”
Carriages in the facility span several The 1939 film adapted from Margaret
hundred years of history and include car- Mitchell’s 1936 novel of the same name won
riages from around the world as well as 10 Academy Awards. It has been named the
from the U.S. Each carriage and wagon is fourth in the top 100 American films of the
collected and shown for its historical signifi- 20th Century. The cast also included Clark
cance and the craftsmanship of those who Gable, Leslie Howard and Olivia De Havil-
built them. land.
But what is in the carriage house is only To get to the Morris Ranch & Carriage
a small portion of those collected by the fa- House, head east for about four miles on
ther and son over the years. FM 1301 toward Boling. Turn left on Coun-
In their restored, pristine condition they ty Road 117 and travel two miles. The car-
look like and could go from the showroom to riage house is on the right just before cross-
roadway at any time, which some of them ing the bridge on the West Bernard River.
sometimes do. It is a perfect setting for not only tours,
But it takes horses for this means of but weddings, proms and other special oc-
transportation, so there are trained car- casions. The carriage house is available to
riage horses stabled at the facility. visit by appointment only for a fee.
The carriage horses are cared for at
the site and all the tack needed is there For more information, call 713-625-8502.
whartontexas.com | Community 152017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide COMMUNITY
Wharton parks
The Wharton Economic Develop- 2017.
ment Corporation has contributed The parks continue to be used
$150,000 in each of the last two fis- during festival cook-offs, reunions,
cal years for park improvements. organizational events, business and
Additionally, the revitalization of birthday parties, or just for fishing.
the Port of Wharton wooden struc- “We urge everyone to come out
tures at Riverfront Park is finished. and enjoy the parks,” Schroeder
The city strives to make Wharton said.
a better place to live. Sometimes all Wharton’s parks include:
that means is improving Wharton’s • Riverfront Park, Elm and Ful-
aesthetics such as landscaping. ton
Earlier this year, the city of Whar- • Dinosaur Park, West Colorado
ton updated the “Port of Wharton” and Bell Street
along the Riverfront Park. The park • Pleasure Park, North Walnut
was deemed as an official Texas lo- Street and East Mulberry Street
cal park, recreating and open space • Guffey Park, Houston and
fund project thanks to the support Caney Streets
of the City of Wharton, Texas Parks • Santa Fe Trail, North Fulton
and Wildlife and Lower Colorado Street and East Santa Fe Street
River Authority. • Croom Park, North Alabama
It was dedicated on June 24, Street and Shirley Avenue
1992 when Garland Novosad was • Harris Park, South Outlar
the mayor. Nearly 24 years later, Street and Harris Street
the sign has been upgraded and its • Hollywood Bottom, County
deck has been renovated. Road 444
“These beautiful park improve- For locations of the parks, see the
ments are assets to our community map on Pages 24-25.
and speak to residents’ quality of If you wish to reserve the pavil-
life,” said David Schroeder, longtime ions or have a function at any of the
executive director of the Wharton parks, contact Wharton City Hall at
EDC who plans to retire in January 979-532-2491.
16 whartontexas.comCOMMUNITY 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
Utility information
If you’re a newcomer here, wel- 532-2491.
come to Wharton! For residential customers out-
If you’re moving into a new side of the Wharton city limits, con-
home, you will need to get your tact a water well drilling provider.
utilities set up. Read the informa- Centerpoint Energy is the area’s
tion below. natural gas provider.
New water and sewer customers Applications can be filled out on-
within the Wharton city limits must line at centerpointenergy.com or by
provide a copy of a lease agreement calling 713-659-2111.
or proof of ownership for the prop- Texas electricity customers can
erty, a valid U.S. identification and visit Power to Choose, the official
a deposit in the amount of $100. and unbiased electric choice web-
Senior citizens are eligible for a site of the Public Utility Commis-
reduced deposit. This service also sion of Texas. Compare offers and
includes garbage pickup. choose the electric plan at powerto-
For more information, call 979- choose.org.
Biggest Selection
Best Prices
www.TNTwestern.com
3030 N. RICHMOND RD.
WHARTON, TX 77488
979-531-8623
M O N - F R I : 9 A M - 6 P M • S AT: 9 A M - 4 P M
whartontexas.com | Community 172017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide COMMUNITY
Wharton museums
Wharton County’s history, from the 1800s
to today, can be found in the Wharton County
Historical Museum and 20th Century Tech-
nology Museum. A historical airplane exhibit,
a visual timeline of technology, lineages of the
lives of local notables such as Pulitzer Prize
and Academy Award winning playwright Hor-
ton Foote, and a trophy room with a game col-
lection comparable to that of any museum of
natural science all coexist under the same roof.
Wharton residents Marshall and Lillie
Johnson rose to wealth from the oil and gas
and farming industries. During their lifetimes,
most of their fortune (more than $30 million)
was donated to health care within the area.
Their home and trophy room were deeded to
Wharton County for the purpose of establish-
ing the new and larger museum, which opened
in August 1991. The original museum, which
opened in 1981, was located in the Old 1888
Jail near the courthouse.
Wharton County Historical Museum is Old TVs are on display at the 20th
filled with historical artifacts and treasures Century Technology Museum.
donated by the Johnsons and other native
Wharton County families, tracing the history residents Art and Sharon Schulze, the Technol-
of Wharton from the early 19th century to to- ogy Museum houses a timeline of technological
day. Marshall, an avid hunter, donated his ex- artifacts through the last century. Currently
tensive game collection to the county museum. more than 1,000 pieces are displayed, includ-
The exhibit features a giraffe, a crocodile, lions, ing radios, telephones, kitchen appliances, ar-
tigers, an elephant (oh my) and many more cade games, toys, computers, and many other
animals from Alaska, Canada, India, Brit- items of interest. Some of the more notable in-
ish Honduras, Africa and the United States. clude original aircraft, such as the Ornithopter,
Notable persons featured in the museum are built by an aviation pioneer in the 1930s, and a
MSG Roy P. Benavidez, an El Campo native WWII Norden bombsight.
who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Supervised children are welcome to watch
Honor for heroic deeds performed as a Green demonstrations of antique toys and games
Beret in Vietnam and world-renowned jour- their parents and grandparents once played
nalist and Wharton native Dan Rather. with.
The museum contains exhibits on the Both museums are free of charge and open
area’s rich history of the military, law enforce- to the public. The Historical Museum is open
ment, fire departments, agriculture, medicine, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through
schools and churches, and Texas Gulf Sulphur Friday and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and
Company. There are also rotating exhibits fea- Sundays. The Technology Museum is open from
turing the artwork of area students and sea- 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, from
sonal displays. 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday (closed on Sunday).
In addition, the museum has a doll col- Wharton County Historical Museum and
lection featuring an original Marilyn Monroe 20th Century Technology Museum are both
doll from the 1990s, a Shirley Temple doll separate organizations and located at 3615 N.
from 1934, a Princess Diana doll from 1982, Richmond Road in Wharton near the Tee Pee
and much more. An exquisite cactus garden Motel.
adorns the exterior grounds.
In October 2012, an addition was built to For more information, call 979-532-2600 or
accommodate the 20th Century Technology 979-282-8810 or visit whartoncountyhistorical-
Museum. Founded and operated by Wharton museum.com or 20thcenturytech.com.
18 Chamber of Commerce | whartontexas.comCOMMUNITY 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
Wharton County Courthouse
The Wharton County Courthouse
does not resemble what people re-
member from the 1950s. In the 1930s
and 1940s, the courthouse was re-
modeled to gain needed space. Wings
were added on each side. The bell,
clock tower and mansard roof had
been removed. Its original red bricks
covered in stucco and painted yellow.
It was redesigned in an art deco look
of the time period.
Famous playwright Horton
Foote, who was a Wharton native,
was upset the with the changes and
he referred to it as “the Sulphur The courthouse during the holidays.
Block” because it was painted yellow.
By the 1980s the added wings It was a three-story masonry building with
were pulling on the center structure and limestone trimmings topped with a mansard
causing major engineering concerns. roof and a central clock tower. Its bricks were
The question was, “Do we raze it or save made from clay gleaned from the Colorado
it through restoration?” River.
For a while it looked like the 1889 Whar- By the 1950s, the Heiner-designed
ton County Courthouse would be no more. courthouse looked nothing like it originally
Structural issues became the focal points of did.
the emotional issue. But cost and time to restore the struc-
Restoration of the Wharton County ture were underestimated. The Wharton
Courthouse caused divisions among resi- County Courthouse had an original esti-
dents of the county. mate of $2.9 million but ended up costing
Preservationists said save it at all cost; $7.4 million. The restoration began in July
others were for replacing with a more mod- of 2003 and was completed in July 2007. It
ern structure a third group thought it could was the most extensively restored court-
not be restored. Local preservationists quick- house in the state’s history.
ly organized and looked for ways to save the Finally, in August of 2005, Wharton res-
building. They considered the courthouse to idents gathered on the courthouse square
be “the heart and soul of Wharton County.” to watch as the massive clock tower was
The preservationists won, and court- lifted to the top of the building. The tower
house history was researched by Wharton is an exact replica of the original. The court-
native and architect David Bucek Jr. house bell, which had been saved by First
After four years of planning, trips to Baptist Church, was returned to the county
Austin’s Texas Historical Commission and and placed in the tower.
fundraising, the task of restoring the his- Today, with the restoration complete,
toric courthouse began — and it would be the Wharton County Courthouse as it
restored to its Victorian style. looked in its 1889 glory is the gem of Whar-
The Wharton County Courthouse was ton’s downtown Monterey Square. It joins
designed by Eugene T. Heiner, who arrived Hallettesville as the only two Heiner works
in Houston from Dallas in 1878. Between that are as the architect originally designed
1878 and his death in 1901, he designed 12 them.
courthouses of which only six survive. The Wharton County Courthouse is fea-
Wharton’s courthouse was built in a tured in the PBS television documentary,
classic Victorian design and overlooked the The Golden Age of Texas Courthouses.
Wharton countryside and the Colorado Riv-
er. Its design was a combination of two popu- The Wharton County Courthouse is at
lar Victorian styles of the 1880s — the Sec- 100 S. Fulton St. in downtown Wharton.
ond Empire style and the Italianate style. Visit whartoncountycourthouse.com.
whartontexas.com | Community 192017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide COMMUNITY
Weekend in Wharton
While in Wharton, there is plenty to do, York, Texas and Mexican Railroad in 1882.
and we’ve got it all planned for you. 100 S. Sunset. Hours: Sat 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Finish the afternoon off by visiting the
SATURDAY Wharton County Historical Museum and
Morning 20th Century Technology Museum. Recently
Visit the Downtown Monterey Square merged, the two museums display Wharton
Historic District for antiquing, a piece of county’s history as a timeline featuring the
history and a morning coffee. The Milam past’s most important treasures. You can
Street Coffee Shop/Wall to Wall Words is a see the progression of technology, a trophy
great place to start your morning, just ask room with countless of species from across
Linda and Carl King for some espresso the globe and exhibits on notable figures to
and you’ll have enough energy all day. The come out of Wharton County such as play-
square is lined with antique shops, perfect wright Horton Foote, newsman Dan Rather
for treasure hunters. While hopping from and medal of honor recipient Roy Benavidez.
store to store, make sure to visit the original 3615 N. Richmond Road, 979-532-2810. M-F
Wharton County Courthouse. The famous 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sat-Sun 1 to 5 p.m.
Texas architect Eugene T. Heiner built the
building in 1889. While circling the square, Evening
you might get a glimpse of a mural or two. You’ve done a lot, it’s time to sit back and
Count them all as you visit through town, eat. If you’re in the mood for Texas barbecue,
there are eight total. Address: 100 S. Fulton try Hinze’s on Richmond Road or Hinze’s
St. Country Kitchen for a more home cooked
meal, located off Texas 60. If you’re feeling
Lunch fishy, try Wharton Seafood on Richmond
After all that walking, shopping and Road for a versatile seafood menu. For a
learning you’re probably hungry and you little bit of everything (including hamburg-
can’t visit Texas without eating some Tex- ers, chicken-fried steak, subs, steaks, salads
Mex. In town, there are a handful of Tex-Mex and more) try 9er’s Grill at Boling Highway
restaurants to choose from. In the downtown and Fulton Street.
area, we have Larry’s Mexican Restaurant, Make sure to stop by the Plaza Theatre
Cuevos Mexican Restaurant, Taqueria Las downtown to see if there is a live show play-
Regias and Los Cucos for an authentic Tex- ing. 120 S. Houston St., 979-532-1084
Mex experience. If Tex-mex isn’t your cup of
tea you can always rush on over to Provisions SUNDAY
Bistro and Market for organic and locally Morning
sourced food. Spend the morning driving around
town. Here are some spots you can’t leave
Afternoon town without seeing for yourself:
Walk off the meal by visiting Wharton’s • Playwright Horton Foote’s Home:
life-size dinosaur sculpture at what the lo- Wharton is the hometown of Horton Foote,
cals call Dinosaur Park on the west end of the dramatist who won Oscars for “To Kill
Riverfront Park, which runs along down- a Mockingbird” and “Tender Mercies” and a
town and the Colorado River. Address: Colo- Pulitzer Prize for his stage play “The Young
rado Street at North Richmond and Busi- Man From Atlanta.” The house he grew
ness 59. up in is maintained in Wharton. Although
Check out the recently restored South- unmarked, it remains a landmark. 3615 N.
ern Pacific Railroad Depot. It was built in Richmond Road.
1912 as a social and transportation center • Tee Pee Motel: a unique motel, where
for Wharton. The depot sits on the “Maca- celebrities such as Elvis Presley have
roni Line” named in honor of the 1,200 Ital- stayed, the Tee Pee Motel was built in 1942
ians who helped build the track for the New for travelers heading across Texas on what
20 Community | whartontexas.comCOMMUNITY 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
is now Business 59. The Tee Pee operated can access excellent fishing along the Gulf
for 40 years, until the interstate highway of Mexico.
system routed customers away. Barbara Lunch
Woods, a Wharton native, and her husband Head south on U.S. 59 for about 20
Byron Woods were passing the abandoned minutes until you hit Wharton’s sister city,
motel one afternoon when she recalled that El Campo. Located in Wharton County, El
she always wanted to stay in one of the tee- Campo has a handful of restaurants and
pees. After winning the lottery, the couple sites to see.
purchased the motel in 2004 and re-opened
it in 2006. 4098 Business 59, 979-532-1084 Afternoon
• Cattle Country and more: The Whar- After you refuel, spend the day in El
ton area is known for the Brahman cattle Campo and visit the El Campo Museum of
breed, thought to have originated in India. Natural History. Address: 2350 N. Mechan-
Brahman were brought to Texas as early ic, located inside the El Campo Civic Center.
as 1860. They seldom seek shelter from the
sun, so a visit to these cattle would be perfect And if you have time
on a sunny day. You can see them on Texas The Morris Ranch and Carriage House
60, north of Hungerford and on FM 1161, is a treat for visitors. Among the meticu-
east of Hungerford. Hungerford is located lously restored and maintained carriages
six miles north of Wharton on Business 59. is the one that carried Vivien Leigh in the
The Hudgins Ranch of Hungerford is among 1939 American epic-historical romance film
the most well known. Wharton has some of “Gone With the Wind.” Visits are by appoint-
the best hunting and bird watching experi- ment only, call 713-625-8003. 2110 County
ences. Just an hour trip to the beach, you Road 117, east of the city.
We Mean Business
n Networking
n Referrals
n Continuing Education
n Governmental Affairs
n Traveler Services
n Convention Services 225 N. Richmond Road
n Business Promotion Wharton, Texas 77488
n Tourism Marketing Tel. 979-532-1862
Fax 979-532-0102
www.whartontexas.com
whartontexas.com | Community 212017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide COMMUNITY
Wharton Civic Center
The Wharton Civic Center is the customer service. You won’t find an
hub for all of the community’s special affordable, multipurpose event space
moments — award banquets, semi- with quality care quite like this facil-
nars, training sessions, business meet- ity in the area.
ings, wedding receptions, rehearsal “A lot of it goes to the leadership
dinners, baby showers, parties and we had with Ms. Knezek there, but
celebrations, philanthropic events, we have a modern facility and the im-
private classes, job fairs and so much provements we’ve made are some of
more. the things that make it the type of fa-
Located 50 miles outside of Hous- cility people enjoy and use,” City Man-
ton, the Wharton Civic Center is the ager Andres Garza Jr. said.
perfect location to host your event When the facility was given to the
without the traffic and high fees of the city in 1990, Jo Knezek took the direc-
big city. tor’s position and for 25 years she de-
The Civic Center is an adaptable, veloped the Civic Center into a reputa-
dynamic event space that was built on ble venue known throughout the area.
southern hospitality. Whether you’re She even hosted events for celebrities
throwing a large event or an intimate such as Frank Sinatra Jr. and Nancy
gathering, you will be in good hands. Sinatra, even George W. Bush when
Throughout the area, Wharton’s he was governor.
Civic Center has become the premier Last year, Jessica Dunn stepped in
venue because of both its facility and as the director since Knezek’s retire-
“Solutions for expanding
or starting a new business”
We’re here to help you
Let’s explore business opportunities
www.whartonedc.com
David L. Schroeder
Executive Director 1944 N. Fulton St.
Oice: 979-532-0999 Wharton, Tx 77488
Toll Free: 866-532-0999 wedc1@sbcglobal.net
Fax: 979-532-5257
22 Community | whartontexas.comCOMMUNITY 2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide
ment, and she hopes to would like to market the
carry the legacy Knezek center for more events
handed her. throughout the week and
“When taking this possibly planning and
position, I evaluated the hosting our own commu-
product, the audience nity-wide events,” Dunn
and the overall feeling said.
of the property to make
notes of what needed Being so close to Whar-
improvements and ad- ton County Junior Col-
justments,” Dunn said. lege, Dunn hopes to book
“It’s great to have a facil- events targeted to the col-
ity that is as versatile to B.J. Thomas per- lege’s young culture, such
hold wedding receptions, formed at the Whar- as concerts, performances
baby showers, anniver- ton Civic Center for and functions.
sary parties to business Wharton County
meetings, community Junior College’s 70th To book an event or for
and private classes and anniversary in 2016. more information, contact
even job fairs.” the city of Wharton at 979-
Dunn has many aspirations and 532-2491, Ext. 600, visit cityofwharton.
plans for the center, but one of her mis- com or email jdunn@cityofwharton.
sions in particular is to host events that com. You can also check them out on
cultivate community. Facebook at www.facebook.com/whar-
“One of my many goals is that I tonciviccenter.
Banking . . . . Only better!
Wharton County’s Credit Union
2101 N. Fulton St. 1313 West Loop
Wharton, TX 77488 El Campo, TX 77488
(979) 282-2300 (979) 578-9000
www.texasgulffcu.org (800) 647-8428
FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA
whartontexas.com | Community 23Walter
59 Old Bolton P
l
60
This map is proudly sponsored by
16
3863 South State Highway 60
Wharton, TX 77488
d
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Wilk
W Jo
an S
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www.exeloncorp.com
5
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W Co
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P2 Dinosaur Park Historic Downtown
n Ave
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Ave
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P3 Pleasure Park D1 Plaza Theatre
Lincol
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st Ave
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P5 Sante Fe Trail Courthouse
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H6 Nettie Elkins House
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H7 John & Sophie
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H8 J.H. Speaker House
H9 E. Clyde & Mary
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Free
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H10 Merrill-Roten
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E Mu
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E Em
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E Way
N Ru
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H12 Wiley J. Croom
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1 Hospital (currently closed)
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15 Just Do It Now
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r2017 Visitors & Newcomers Guide COMMUNITY
Wharton County Junior College
Wharton County
Junior College cel-
ebrated its 70th anni-
versary last year and
invited an old friend
back to perform —
Grammy award win-
ner B.J. Thomas.
The event was a
packed house at the
Wharton Civic Cen- Wharton County Junior College’s main campus is on Bol-
ter in November with ing Highway in Wharton.
around 600 guests to ciate of applied science degrees, associ-
see the former WCJC student perform. ate of arts degrees, dual credit programs
The concert was not a fundraiser, but and continuing education courses.
instead a celebration of the college’s 70th Many students live at home; howev-
anniversary. er, students have the opportunity to live
WCJC was created on April 6, 1946, on the Wharton campus in dormitories
and welcomed its first students the follow- and to participate in campus life.
ing fall. Around 200 students were part of The college participates in three com-
that inaugural class, meeting in tempo- petitive sports: volleyball for women,
rary Wharton County Fair buildings. baseball for men and rodeo for men and
Over the years the college has grown women. The college has a choir, a band
dramatically, currently serving more than and a drama program. These sports and
7,400 students in an area that encom- fine arts programs offer student scholar-
passes Wharton, Matagorda and Colora- ships.
do counties as well as portions of Jackson, Campus life includes intramural
Austin and Fort Bend counties. activities for men and women, a Presi-
WCJC operates four campuses at dential Scholars Program, student gov-
Wharton, Sugar Land, Bay City and Rich- ernment and a variety of clubs and or-
mond. ganizations.
The first day of classes for the spring
About WCJC 2017 semester is Tuesday, Jan. 17.
With a tax district encompassing
Wharton County and the Needville In- Wharton County Junior College is a
dependent School District, Wharton Texas public, two-year, comprehensive
County Junior College also has a service community college offering a wide range
area that includes Wharton, Fort Bend, of postsecondary educational programs
Matagorda, Colorado and parts of Jack- and services including associate de-
son and Austin counties. grees, certificates, continuing education
It has a central campus in Wharton courses, cultural affairs and leisure-time
and campuses in Sugar Land, Rich- activities for the benefit of the community
mond and Bay City. In addition, the col- and a population of students that varies
lege offers classes at an extension center in age, background and ability. WCJC
in El Campo. operates campuses in Wharton, Sugar
College-wide, WCJC offers more than Land, Richmond and Bay City. For
40 programs including certificates, asso- more information, visit wcjc.edu.
26 Community | whartontexas.comYou can also read
