Lifestyle

5 Things You Should Know About Hamilton, Texas

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Tony Maples Photography

 

The Texas Hill Country town of Hamilton is known as “what a hometown should be.” Its charm and history blend perfectly to combine the best of the past with all the bright hopes of the future. That being said, there are as yet still undiscovered bits and pieces of this quaint little town. Here are just a few fun facts about Hamilton.

1. Hamilton is the Dove Capital of Texas.

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Photo: hamiltondovefest.com

Hamilton has taken on the mantel of  “Dove Capital of Texas,” and why not? After all, with the best dove hunting in the state and an annual festival and wing cook-off, they have surely earned it. Learn more or enter the cook-off at hamiltondovefest.com

2. History lives on at the Billy the Kid Museum.

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Photo: aboutbillythekid.com

“Come learn about the legend of Billy the Kid… Enjoy viewing old photos of historical figures and reading the letters and various documents that tell the colorful story… You will get caught up in the legend of Billy the Kid, an experience you wont forget.” (billythekidmuseum.com)

3. The Bullman bridge is one of the few remaining bowstring bridges in Texas.

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Photo: roadtrippers.com

Built by the King Bridge Company in 1884, the Bullman Bridge is the most complete and substantial remaining bowstring bridge in Texas.

4. There is an award winning vineyard.

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Photo: redwingdove.com

Red Wing Dove Vinyards is an award-winning Hill Country vineyard that began with Pinot Blanc and Shiraz vines thriving in the backyard of owners Ellis and Susan Vandiver.  The couple purchased the estate where the vineyard and winery now stand in July 2004. It’s appropriately located since Hamilton is the Dove Capital of Texas. Learn more about their wines and their process here.

5. The Hamilton County Courthouse is an official historical landmark.

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Photo: barnfield.net

The historic Hamilton County Courthouse was built in 1897. The limestone facade was done in the Second Empire style until it was redone in the Classical style in 1931. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in April 1980.